Beaumont Rag is a tune that is incredibly versionated. Without knowing
their particular version, no way to create a dance that fits.
Another way to look at the problem ... If they really want to play the
tune for dancing, there is no reason they cannot concoct a version of
there own, using the grab-bag of pieces that are laying around, to
create a square version. Next questions: Do they actually understand
what a square version is? Do they have a feel for the kinds of things,
in actual square tunes, that sometimes confuse the caller and/or
dancers? Do you or they know a musician or caller that could help with
that?
If they feel like they'd like to use more pieces than can be
accommodated by typical A-A-B-B construction, there are several
possibilities. Think about A-A and B-B each being rectangles that form
a square You could concoct a C-C part. Then play the tune,
alternately, A-A B-B / A-A C-C. Also possible - perhaps a 16 bar
rectangle that does not internally repeat [as chestnut Maggie Brown's
Favorite does] Or A-B-C-D, [like chestnuts Opera Reel and Chorus Jig]
If I were doing this project, I would be inclined to play the A-A
rectangle alternating with other rectangles, beginning by alternating
A-A B-B until the dancers get a grip, then throw in other alternations,
but always the A-A in the lead.
I have a batch of dances that fit variants of A-A-B-B-C, if they'd go
for that. Could even be A-B-C-D-E. If anyone is interested, I'll
supply those dances. Most are old contra-corners patterns, which
deserve more circulation than they get - with some stretch limousine
treatment.
Roger Diggle
--
Food for thought is no substitute for the real thing.
-- Walt Kelly, cartoonist extraordinaire
*From:* Laur via Contra Callers
*Sent:* Wednesday, April 27, 2022 3:50 PM
*To:* Contra Callers <contracall...@sharedweight.net>
*Subject:* [Callers] Need help fitting to a tune
A local band here plays Beaumont Rag As a part of their routine dance
set. It’s a popular band.
I’ve never experienced a contra dance The band has chosen to play for
a dance work. It doesn’t work for the dancers and it’s agonizing for the
caller.
Can anyone suggest a dance that could fit? At this point I’m planning to
request they don’t include the tune.
I know there’s an English dance written to match but not interested in
that for this set.
Laurie
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