Square dancing is a type of American folk dancing performed by groups of four couples. The couples may dance in a square formation or in a circle called a running set. They may also dance longways, in which two lines of couples face each other.
Square dancers follow the directions of a caller, who calls out different movements and patterns. Popular calls include “Promenade,” “Swing your partner,” and “Form a right-hand (or left-hand) star.” The caller may give singing calls, in which the directions are sung, or patter calls, in which the directions are spoken against a musical background. Most of the music for square dancing is provided by fiddles, banjos, and guitars. Most of the music for square dancing is provided by fiddles, banjos, or guitars, played by live bands or on recordings. The music is country or other styles of popular music, and amplified instruments dominate.
Square dancing is popular throughout the United States, especially in rural areas, and different styles have developed in the East and West. Most Eastern square dances are based on simple patterns, with one couple dancing at a time. Western square dances may involve several couples dancing in complex patterns.
Many square dances come from ancient English, Irish, and Scottish folk dances brought to America by early settlers. Different communities adapted the calls and movements in various ways.
