Scottish dancing is enjoyed by people of all ages and from many cultures. There is no need to have Scottish ancestry to enjoy this. There are groups in many non-Scottish countries around the world such as Japan, France and Argentina.
There is an expression that "The music tells you what to do" We usually dance to music from bands of accordions, drums, and sometimes fiddles. Other times pianos or bagpipes get us moving. Jigs and reels are fast lively dances while elegant strathspeys and Scottish waltzes are slower.
In an evening's dance, you dance with series of partners. It is not necessary to bring your own partner. We usually dance in lines with sets of of 4 couples, although some dances have a different formation. When the music starts, you bow or curtsey to your partner then go into a series of patterns which vary for each dance. In all but the most major balls, someone briefs the dances before the music starts to explain what to do. Often you may walk the dance during the briefing to further help you learn the dance.
In the Toronto area, you can join the Branch Classes
in downtown Toronto, and/or join one of our many social
groups . In these, 15 to 50 people join together and do various dances
which are briefed by an instructor. Usually they have recorded music. Some
social groups are for beginners, others are for experienced dancers. There
is no need to make an appointment to join one, just show up with a partner,
a friend or by yourself.