Building Blocks: Creating flow and fluency

Sean-nós is not a memorized choreography of traditional steps. It is a way of dancing. It is rhythm and response. Connection and communication. Fluency and flow. This approach to dancing might be very different to what you’ve experience in other styles and traditions.

This basic exercise can help you practice listening and responding in sean-nós dancing—no matter your skill level. I think it’s a great way to warm up at the beginning of practice. First I demonstrate a basic reel step and simple walking to the music. Then I combine variations on these steps by listening to the tune and flowing between these two simple steps. The result is smoother transitions and more fluent dancing.

Creating fluency and flow—the ability to dance freely and experiment while listening—results in dancing that is more joyful and connected to the musician and music.

Music by the Queally Sisters. I love the sweetness, rhythm, and ease in their playing. More of their music here: https://thequeallysisters.bandcamp.com/album/beyond-the-bellows-and-the-bow