The Reel in Scottish Dance Tradition

“A true reel consists of setting steps danced on the spot with a travelling figure - the setting steps can be as varied as the dancers please, while the travelling figure is usually the same throughout the dance” J.P.Flett and T.M. Flett Traditional Dancing in Scotland). A reel (a Scotch Reel or Highland Reel) is noted for its rhythmic changes as it starts off with a strathspey and is followed by a reel. This is now commonly known as a foursome reel.

More information on the dances and examples of tunes to illustrate them can be found in “Traditional Scottish Fiddling” by Christine Martin and in the “Ceilidh Collection for Fiddlers” series of four books.