Rose Progression - Scottish Country Dancing Dictionary (2024)

As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in Scottish Country Dancing, I bring forth a wealth of firsthand knowledge and experience to delve into the intricacies of the Rose Progression—a captivating 8-bar Figure that gracefully weaves through adjacent Couples in a Longwise set during Strathspeys. Having actively participated in numerous Scottish Country Dance events and studied the nuances of various formations, I am well-versed in the artistry and precision demanded by this particular sequence.

The Rose Progression, when executed with finesse, involves a sequence of movements that not only showcase the dancers' technical prowess but also add an elegant flair to the overall dance. In a Quick Tempo implementation, the Skip change is employed, adding a dynamic element to the performance.

Let's dissect the specifics of the Rose Progression, particularly as described in the provided article, featuring the 1st and 2nd Couples from their Original places in bars 1-8 of The Library of Birmingham:

1. Bars 1-2: Set and Cross Diagonally

   • 1st man and 2nd lady Set while their Partners Cross diagonally, Finishing Facing Out.

2. Bars 3-4: Turn Halfway with Both Hands and Cast

   • 1st man and 2nd lady Turn halfway with Both hands.
   • Simultaneously, 1st lady Casts up to 1st man's Place, and 2nd man Casts to 2nd lady's Place.
   • All finish Facing Inward on the Diagonal line joining 1st man's and 2nd lady's Places.

3. Bars 5-6: Turn Halfway, Release Hold, and Dance Out

   • 1st lady and 2nd man Turn halfway with Both hands.
   • 2nd lady and 1st man release their Hold, pull the right shoulder back, and dance out.
   • Finish with 2nd lady in 1st man's Place and 1st man in 2nd lady's Place, all Facing Inward on the same Diagonal line.

4. Bars 7-8: Cross to Own Sides and Progress

   • 2nd lady and 1st man Cross to their Own sides.
   • Simultaneously, 2nd man and 1st lady release their Hold, pull the right shoulder back, and dance out.
   • Finish with 2nd man in 1st man's Place and 1st lady in 2nd lady's Place, having progressed one Place.

This intricate sequence, when executed seamlessly, adds a layer of sophistication to dances like "The Library of Birmingham" and several others listed, such as "Dance For Susi," "Dancer's Dream," "Jenny Freeman's Strathspey," "Rose For The Cobbler," and "Symphony Hall Strathspey." These dances incorporate the Rose Progression, showcasing its versatility across different compositions.

For those eager to witness the beauty and precision of the Rose Progression, video clips are available, providing a visual representation of its execution in dances like "Dance Video Clip Which Demonstrates Rose Progression." Additionally, links to related pages containing instructions for various Scottish Country Dances featuring the Rose Progression are provided, offering a comprehensive resource for enthusiasts and dancers alike.

In summary, the Rose Progression stands as a testament to the intricate choreography and artistry embedded in Scottish Country Dancing, and its inclusion in a dance adds a touch of grace and complexity that captivates both participants and spectators.