Announcements:
All branch events have been cancelled until further notice.
Check your email for the October 2021 Branch Bulletin edited by Denise King-Jeanes.
Branch News
Stay safe and healthy
Welcome
The Ottawa Branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society was founded in 1966. It provides both classes in Scottish Country Dancing from beginner (level 1) to Advanced (level 3) and social events for its members including monthly socials and an annual ball.
Scottish Country Dancing is the social dancing of Scotland dating back to the 16th Century and consists of Reels, Jigs, Hornpipes, and the uniquely Scottish Strathspeys
The music is lively and adds to the exhilaration of the dance. Dances are done in groups (or sets) of 6 or 8 dancers and youdon’t need to bring your own partner to participate. The regular dance season is September to early May. Informal dancing is also held throughout the summer months.
Come to a class, or drop by one of our socials to watch the fun! The best time to start is in September but new dancers are welcome to join in January also.
You don’t need to be Scottish to recognize Scottish Country Dancing is good value for your money…and good for your health.
A Sample of our Dancing
Click on the video below to see a brief sample of our dancing.
Courtesy of Rogers Communications
Our Classes
More information on classes will be available when the decision is made to restart classes
Level 1 -
This class is for newer dancers who will be introduced to the skills and joy of Scottish Country Dancing. Dancers will be encouraged to move on, by their teacher, when they will benefit from the next level.
The syllabus can be viewed by clicking here
Level 2 -
Will include some of the more difficult formations , dances , and technical skills of dancing. Dancers will discuss the possibility of joining the Level 3 class with their teacher when it is decided that they would benefit from the next level.
The syllabus can be viewed by clicking here
Level 3 -
Will include more advanced formations, dance steps and technique, including the more difficult dances from any programme or dances chosen by the teacher , for the knowledge and enjoyment of the experienced dancer.
The syllabus can be viewed by clicking here
Afternoon Social
This class is for any dancer above Level 1 who wish to dance in a relaxed class which will amongst other dances cover the dances in the next social program.
FAQs
What is the cost to join our classes?
How do I apply to join?
To apply for membership in the Branch, click here to download the PDF file, complete the form and give it to your class convener or send it to the Branch Treasurer
Where can I dance?
Dancers can dance at any class and social event offered for their level. See the list of classes. Dancers who travel enjoy dancing with other SCD groups throughout the world. There is a link from the Ottawa Branch web site to other Scottish Country Dance web sites so you can check for a dancing group at your holiday destination.
What should I wear to dance?
Dancers soon warm up so we suggest comfortable, light clothing.
What type of shoes should I wear?
We suggest soft, light shoes to begin with. Most women dancers buy ballet or jazz dancing shoes and both women and men buy ghillies. Your class teacher or convenor will advise you about the nearest place to purchase shoes..
Do I need experience?
Do I need a partner?
No. Scottish Country Dances are danced in sets of 8 (6 or sometimes 10) and dancers normally change partners for each dance during the evening.
Contact Us
Email Us
Our Executive
Click on Name to send email to executive member
| Position | Name | Telephone |
|---|---|---|
| Chair | Todd Moxley | 613-316-1521 |
| Past Chair | Wayne Greer | 613-747-9648 |
| Vice Chair | Denise Conway | 613-741-7085 |
| Treasurer | Richard Hatherill | 613-726-1331 |
| Secretary | Phil Worthington | 613-828-1524 |
| Chair of Instructors | Marion Hamilton | 613-270-9787 |
| Publicity | Gayle Davidson | 613-729-2404 |