"How-to" Syrto and Kalimatiano
"How-to" Introductory Materials.
Basic Dance
Rhythm: S,Q,Q; 2/4 time for Syrto (7/8 time for Kalimatiano);
16 beats per pattern (12 counts). Arms relaxed with bent elbows (W hold).
Usually danced in long lines; leader is on the R end of the line.
Traditionally the leader performs all variations while the line dances the
Basic steps.
Weight on L foot.
S,Q,Q:
R (1), L behind (2), R (3): S,Q,Q:
L (4), R (5), L (6): S,Q,Q:
R (7), L (8), R back (9): S,Q,Q:
Together (10), R back (11), L rock (12): Syrto Dance Variations
As variations, the line may make a 360-degree forward turn in
LOD (counterclockwise) or a back turn (clockwise) in place.
Forward Turn
Weight on L foot.
S,Q,Q:
R (1), behind (2), R (3),: S,Q,Q:
L (4), turn (5), turn (6):
Face LOD & step on L; start 360 degree LOD forward turn on R
(counterclockwise); continue turn on L.
S,Q,Q:
Turn (7), L (8), back (9): S,Q,Q:
Together (10), back (11), rock (12): Return to Basic.
Back Turn
Weight on L foot.
S,Q,Q:
R (1), behind (2), R (3): S,Q,Q:
L (4), R (5), L (6): S,Q,Q:
R (7), L (8), back (9): S,Q,Q:
Turn (10), turn (11), turn (12): Return to Basic.
Face center & firmly step to R side on R foot (almost a stamp; weight on
R foot); L foot behind; step to right on R foot.
Face LOD & step on L; step on R; step on L.
Step on R; step on L; back on R.
Bring L together with R (weight on L); step back on R; rock forward on
L (weight on L).
Same as Basic.
Finish turn on R; step on L; back on R.
Same as Basic.
Same as Basic.
Same as Basic.
Same as Basic.
Start 360-degree back turn on L (clockwise); continue turn, stepping on
R foot; pick up L foot & rotate it (about 180 degrees) &
replace in same place (finish turn with weight on L).
