5.4 Appalachian dance traditions
9 min read•august 20, 2024
Appalachian dance traditions blend influences from indigenous, European, and African cultures. This unique fusion shaped distinctive styles like , , , and , each reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage.
These dances are deeply intertwined with Appalachian music, featuring , , and . From to festivals, these traditions continue to evolve while preserving their cultural significance and fostering community bonds.
Origins of Appalachian dance
- Appalachian dance has diverse roots, blending influences from indigenous, European, and African cultures that converged in the region
- The unique combination of these cultural elements shaped the distinctive styles and traditions of Appalachian dance
- Understanding the origins of Appalachian dance provides insight into the region's history and cultural heritage
Indigenous influences
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Cherokee Indians ready for The Green Corn Dance, Cherokee,… | Flickr View original
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Opening Ceremonies Cherokee Pow Wow | www.cherokee-nc.com/ev… | Flickr View original
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- Native American tribes in the Appalachian region, such as the and , had their own dance traditions that influenced early settlers
- Indigenous dances often had spiritual significance and were performed during ceremonies and celebrations ()
- Some elements of Native American dance, such as circular formations and rhythmic footwork, were adapted into Appalachian dance styles
European influences
- European settlers, primarily from the British Isles, brought their folk dance traditions to the Appalachian region (, )
- , characterized by formations like longways sets and square sets, heavily influenced the development of Appalachian square dancing
- Scandinavian and German immigrants also contributed to the mix of European dance styles that shaped Appalachian dance
African influences
- Enslaved Africans brought to the Appalachian region contributed their own rich dance traditions to the cultural melting pot
- African dance elements, such as , , and , were incorporated into Appalachian dance styles
- The banjo, an instrument with African roots, became a key component of Appalachian dance music
Types of Appalachian dance
- Appalachian dance encompasses a variety of distinct styles, each with its own characteristics and history
- These dance forms evolved in response to the unique cultural, social, and geographical context of the Appalachian region
- The four main types of Appalachian dance are clogging, flatfooting, square dancing, and contra dancing
Clogging
- Clogging is a percussive dance style characterized by intricate footwork and rhythmic tapping
- Dancers wear shoes with special taps or "jingles" to create a distinctive sound
- Clogging often features improvisation and individual expression within a group dance context
Flatfooting
- Flatfooting, also known as buck dancing or jigging, is a solo dance style that emphasizes intricate footwork performed close to the ground
- Dancers keep their upper bodies relatively still while creating complex rhythms with their feet
- Flatfooting is often performed to old-time string band music and allows for individual creativity and improvisation
Square dancing
- Square dancing is a social dance performed by four couples arranged in a square formation
- A caller directs the dancers through a series of figures and movements, which are performed in synchronization with the music
- Appalachian square dancing incorporates elements of English country dance and
Contra dancing
- Contra dancing is a social dance performed in long lines, with couples facing each other
- Dancers progress down the line, interacting with different partners throughout the dance
- Contra dancing emphasizes smooth, flowing movements and is often accompanied by live old-time or Celtic music
Appalachian dance music
- Music is an integral part of Appalachian dance, providing the rhythm, melody, and energy that drives the dancers
- Appalachian dance music is rooted in the folk traditions of the British Isles, Africa, and other European cultures
- The unique instrumentation, tunes, and rhythms of Appalachian dance music have evolved over time to support the various dance styles of the region
Old-time string bands
- Old-time string bands, consisting primarily of fiddle, banjo, guitar, and bass, are the traditional ensemble for Appalachian dance music
- These bands play a repertoire of tunes that have been passed down through generations of musicians in the region
- The instrumentation and arrangements of old-time string bands create a lively, driving sound that is well-suited for dancing
Fiddle tunes
- Fiddle tunes are the backbone of Appalachian dance music, providing the melodies that dancers move to
- Many fiddle tunes have roots in the folk music of the British Isles, but have been adapted and transformed in the Appalachian context
- Fiddle tunes often feature lively, syncopated rhythms and intricate melodic variations
Banjo styles
- The banjo, with its African origins, plays a crucial role in Appalachian dance music
- Clawhammer and three-finger picking are two common banjo styles used in old-time string bands
- The percussive, driving sound of the banjo helps to propel the rhythm and energy of Appalachian dance music
Rhythm and tempo
- Appalachian dance music is characterized by strong, steady rhythms that emphasize the downbeat
- The tempo of the music varies depending on the specific dance style, with faster tempos for clogging and flatfooting and moderate tempos for square and contra dancing
- The interplay between the various instruments in old-time string bands creates a layered, syncopated rhythm that drives the dancing
Appalachian dance events
- Appalachian dance events have long been an important part of the region's social and cultural life
- These gatherings provide opportunities for people to come together, socialize, and participate in the shared tradition of dance
- Appalachian dance events take various forms, from informal to organized
Barn dances
- Barn dances are informal social gatherings held in barns or other large, open spaces
- These events feature live music and a variety of Appalachian dance styles, with participants of all ages and skill levels joining in
- Barn dances foster a sense of community and shared cultural heritage among participants
Community gatherings
- Appalachian dance is often incorporated into various community gatherings, such as weddings, holiday celebrations, and fundraisers
- These events provide opportunities for people to come together and participate in the shared tradition of dance
- Community gatherings help to strengthen social bonds and preserve Appalachian dance traditions
Festivals and competitions
- Appalachian dance festivals and competitions showcase the skills and artistry of dancers and musicians from the region and beyond
- These events often feature workshops, performances, and contests in various Appalachian dance styles (Clifftop )
- Festivals and competitions help to promote and preserve Appalachian dance traditions while fostering innovation and creativity within the art form
Appalachian dance attire
- Traditional clothing and footwear play an important role in Appalachian dance, both from a functional and cultural perspective
- Dance attire varies depending on the specific style and context of the dance, but often reflects the practical needs and cultural aesthetics of the Appalachian region
Traditional clothing
- Appalachian dancers often wear clothing that allows for ease of movement and breathability, such as loose-fitting dresses or skirts for women and comfortable pants and shirts for men
- Traditional patterns, such as gingham or calico, are common in Appalachian dance attire, reflecting the region's textile heritage
- Accessories like handkerchiefs or suspenders may be worn to add a decorative touch or to serve a practical function
Footwear for dancing
- Proper footwear is essential for Appalachian dancing, as it affects the dancer's ability to execute steps and create percussive sounds
- Clogging shoes, often made of leather with special taps or "jingles" attached, are worn to create a distinctive sound and to protect the dancer's feet
- Flatfooting and other styles may be performed in regular leather shoes or boots with smooth soles to allow for sliding and gliding movements
Evolution of Appalachian dance
- Appalachian dance has undergone significant changes over time, adapting to new social, cultural, and technological influences
- While the core elements of Appalachian dance remain rooted in tradition, the art form continues to evolve through regional variations, modern adaptations, and the interplay between preservation and innovation
Regional variations
- Appalachian dance styles and traditions vary across different parts of the region, reflecting the diverse cultural influences and local histories of each area
- For example, the dance traditions of the Blue Ridge Mountains may differ from those of the Cumberland Plateau or the Shenandoah Valley
- Regional variations in dance styles, music, and attire contribute to the richness and diversity of Appalachian dance as a whole
Modern adaptations
- Appalachian dance has been influenced by modern social and cultural trends, leading to new interpretations and adaptations of traditional forms
- Contemporary choreographers and dancers have incorporated elements of Appalachian dance into modern dance pieces, fusion styles, and theatrical productions
- The use of amplified instruments, electronic music, and non-traditional venues has also impacted the evolution of Appalachian dance in recent years
Preservation vs innovation
- The evolution of Appalachian dance involves a balance between preserving traditional forms and allowing for innovation and creativity
- Many dancers, musicians, and educators work to document, teach, and promote traditional Appalachian dance styles to ensure their continuation
- At the same time, the art form continues to evolve as new generations of dancers and musicians bring their own perspectives and influences to the tradition
Significance of Appalachian dance
- Appalachian dance holds deep cultural, social, and personal significance for the people of the region and beyond
- The practice of Appalachian dance serves multiple functions, from expressing cultural identity to fostering and promoting physical well-being
Cultural identity
- Appalachian dance is a powerful expression of the region's cultural identity, reflecting the shared history, values, and traditions of its people
- Participating in Appalachian dance allows individuals to connect with their cultural heritage and to assert their sense of belonging within the community
- The preservation and promotion of Appalachian dance traditions helps to ensure the continuity of the region's cultural identity across generations
Social bonding
- Appalachian dance events provide opportunities for social bonding and interaction, bringing people together across generations and social groups
- The participatory nature of Appalachian dance encourages a sense of community and shared experience among dancers and musicians
- The social connections formed through Appalachian dance can help to strengthen interpersonal relationships and build a sense of belonging within the community
Physical exercise
- Appalachian dance provides a form of physical exercise that is both enjoyable and culturally meaningful
- The lively, energetic movements of Appalachian dance styles like clogging and flatfooting can provide a good cardiovascular workout and improve coordination and balance
- Participating in Appalachian dance can also have mental health benefits, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being through social interaction and creative expression
Appalachian dance in popular culture
- Appalachian dance has been represented in various forms of popular culture, from films and television shows to stage productions and music videos
- These representations have helped to raise awareness of Appalachian dance traditions and have influenced the way the art form is perceived and practiced both within and outside the region
Representations in media
- Appalachian dance has been featured in films, such as "Songcatcher" and "O Brother, Where Art Thou?", often as a way to evoke a sense of regional identity or cultural authenticity
- Television shows, like "The Beverly Hillbillies" and "Hee Haw", have also included elements of Appalachian dance, although these representations have sometimes been stereotypical or exaggerated
- Documentaries and educational media have played an important role in presenting more nuanced and accurate portrayals of Appalachian dance traditions
Influence on other dance forms
- Appalachian dance has influenced and been influenced by other dance forms, both within and outside the region
- Elements of Appalachian dance, such as clogging and flatfooting, have been incorporated into other styles like tap dance, country line dancing, and modern dance
- Appalachian dance has also been fused with other folk dance traditions, such as Irish or Scottish dance, to create new hybrid forms
- The exchange of ideas and techniques between Appalachian dance and other dance forms has contributed to the ongoing evolution and vitality of the art form
Key Terms to Review (36)
African American Influence: African American influence refers to the significant impact of African American culture, traditions, and historical experiences on various aspects of life in the United States, particularly in areas like music, dance, visual arts, and community expressions. This influence can be seen in the ways African American communities have contributed to and shaped the cultural landscape, merging their unique heritage with broader Appalachian traditions.
Appalachian String Band Festival: The Appalachian String Band Festival is a vibrant celebration of traditional Appalachian music, particularly focusing on string band music, which includes instruments like the fiddle, banjo, mandolin, and guitar. This festival not only showcases musical performances but also serves as a gathering place for dancers, storytellers, and enthusiasts of Appalachian culture. It highlights the deep-rooted connections between music, dance, and folklore within the Appalachian region, bringing together various forms of cultural expression.
Banjo styles: Banjo styles refer to the various techniques and methods of playing the banjo, each with its own unique sound and cultural significance. These styles often reflect regional traditions, musical genres, and personal expression, making the banjo a versatile instrument in Appalachian music. Understanding these styles helps connect them to the broader fabric of music and dance traditions in Appalachian culture.
Barn dances: Barn dances are social gatherings typically held in rural settings, where participants engage in traditional folk dancing accompanied by live music. These events are characterized by their communal nature and the inclusion of various dance styles, often reflecting the cultural heritage of the Appalachian region. They serve as a means of preserving local traditions, fostering community bonding, and providing entertainment through shared participation in dance and music.
Béla fleck: Béla Fleck is a renowned American banjo player, composer, and bandleader known for his innovative fusion of bluegrass, jazz, and other musical genres. His work has significantly influenced the evolution of banjo music, particularly in Appalachian dance traditions, where he has combined traditional elements with contemporary styles to create a unique sound that resonates with diverse audiences.
Bluegrass: Bluegrass is a genre of American roots music that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by its blend of acoustic instruments, particularly the banjo, mandolin, guitar, fiddle, and upright bass. It draws heavily from the musical traditions brought by Scots-Irish immigrants and incorporates elements of Appalachian folk music, highlighting themes of rural life, love, and hardship. The fast-paced rhythms and high harmonies found in bluegrass not only reflect cultural influences but also play a key role in shaping Appalachian identity and community ties.
Bluegrass festival: A bluegrass festival is a musical event that celebrates bluegrass music, a genre rooted in Appalachian folk traditions and characterized by its unique instrumentation, vocal harmonies, and improvisation. These festivals often feature live performances by various bands, workshops for aspiring musicians, and opportunities for social gatherings, creating a vibrant atmosphere that brings together fans and artists alike. The festivals serve as a crucial platform for preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Appalachian region.
Cherokee: The Cherokee are a Native American tribe originally from the southeastern United States, known for their rich cultural heritage, complex social structure, and historical significance. They played a vital role in the history of the Appalachian Mountains and faced forced removal during the Trail of Tears, which greatly impacted their population and culture. The Cherokee also contributed significantly to Appalachian dance traditions, reflecting their enduring influence in the region.
Clogging: Clogging is a traditional form of folk dance that originated in the Appalachian region and is characterized by rhythmic footwork that produces audible sounds from the shoes, often accompanied by lively music. It combines elements of square dancing and tap dancing, showcasing the cultural heritage and community spirit of Appalachian life. This energetic dance style often involves improvisation and emphasizes the joy of movement and connection to music.
Community gatherings: Community gatherings refer to organized events where members of a community come together for social, cultural, or recreational purposes. These events are essential in fostering relationships, sharing traditions, and reinforcing community identity. Through music, dance, food, and storytelling, community gatherings promote connection and support among participants, serving as a vital aspect of the social fabric in various cultures.
Contra dancing: Contra dancing is a traditional form of folk dance that involves a line or set of dancers performing a sequence of figures to live music, often played on fiddles and other acoustic instruments. This lively and community-oriented dance form is characterized by its simple steps and formations, allowing dancers of all skill levels to participate and enjoy the experience together.
Cultural exchange: Cultural exchange refers to the process through which different cultures share, adopt, and influence each other's practices, beliefs, and traditions. This dynamic interaction often leads to the blending of customs, ideas, and artistic expressions, fostering a richer cultural landscape. Through this interchange, communities can enhance their identity while creating a sense of belonging and shared experience.
Cultural preservation: Cultural preservation refers to the efforts and practices aimed at protecting, maintaining, and reviving cultural heritage, traditions, and expressions that define a community's identity. This concept plays a crucial role in sustaining the unique characteristics of various cultural practices and ensuring that they are passed down through generations. It helps communities to resist cultural homogenization and encourages a sense of pride and belonging among members.
English Country Dances: English Country Dances are traditional social dances that originated in England during the 16th century and became popular in various forms throughout Europe and America. These dances are characterized by their lively music, patterned formations, and often involve several couples dancing together, reflecting a communal spirit. In the context of Appalachian culture, these dances laid a foundation for the region's folk dance traditions and continue to influence modern social dancing.
Festivals and competitions: Festivals and competitions are organized events that celebrate cultural traditions, often featuring music, dance, and various forms of artistic expression. In the context of dance traditions, these gatherings serve as platforms for performers to showcase their skills, foster community engagement, and preserve the rich heritage of regional dances. They play a crucial role in maintaining cultural identity and provide opportunities for social interaction among participants and audiences alike.
Fiddle tunes: Fiddle tunes are traditional pieces of music typically played on the fiddle, a string instrument similar to a violin. These tunes are characterized by their lively, upbeat rhythms and are often rooted in folk traditions, particularly in the Appalachian region. Fiddle tunes play an essential role in old-time music, serving as a foundation for both listening and dancing, and reflect the cultural heritage and communal practices of Appalachian communities.
Flatfooting: Flatfooting is a traditional form of Appalachian dance that involves improvisational footwork, often performed to lively music, particularly bluegrass and old-time tunes. This style of dance emphasizes rhythmic foot stomping and can be done solo or in groups, showcasing individual creativity and expression within a communal setting. It's a key part of Appalachian culture, reflecting its rich musical heritage and social interactions.
Folk revival: Folk revival refers to a significant cultural movement that emerged primarily in the mid-20th century, aimed at rediscovering, preserving, and revitalizing traditional folk music and dance, often in response to the changing social and political landscape. This movement not only sparked interest in authentic Appalachian music and dance but also encouraged a broader appreciation for regional cultural expressions, creating a bridge between past traditions and contemporary performance.
French Quadrilles: French quadrilles are a type of dance that originated in France during the 18th century and gained popularity in the United States, especially in Appalachian communities. This dance form involves four couples arranged in a square formation, executing a series of intricate patterns and figures to lively music. French quadrilles are an important aspect of Appalachian dance traditions, reflecting cultural exchanges and adaptations that occurred over time.
Green corn ceremony: The green corn ceremony is a significant Native American ritual that celebrates the annual corn harvest, particularly among Indigenous tribes in the southeastern United States, including the Cherokee. This event serves not only as a time for thanksgiving for the bountiful harvest but also as an opportunity for community bonding, renewal of social ties, and cultural reaffirmation through various traditions and practices, including feasting, dancing, and storytelling.
Improvisation: Improvisation is the spontaneous creation or performance of music, dance, or theater without premeditation or a script. In many traditional Appalachian dance forms, improvisation plays a crucial role, allowing dancers to express themselves and adapt their movements in real-time, often responding to the rhythms of live music or the dynamics of fellow dancers. This practice fosters creativity and individuality within the structure of established dance traditions.
Irish Jigs: Irish jigs are lively folk dances characterized by a strong rhythm and quick tempo, typically performed in duple time. They hold an important place in Irish culture and have influenced various dance forms, including those found in Appalachian traditions, where the blend of Irish heritage contributes to the region's unique dance styles.
Jean Ritchie: Jean Ritchie was a renowned Appalachian folk singer, songwriter, and dulcimer player, recognized for her contributions to preserving and promoting traditional Appalachian music and culture. Her work bridged the gap between old-time music, dance traditions, crafts, oral storytelling, and folklore, making her a pivotal figure in the Appalachian cultural revival.
Kentucky Two-Step: The Kentucky Two-Step is a traditional Appalachian dance characterized by a lively and syncopated pattern, often performed to bluegrass or folk music. This dance involves a series of quick steps that alternate between two beats, creating an energetic and rhythmic movement that reflects the cultural heritage of the region. The Kentucky Two-Step showcases the importance of social dance in Appalachian communities, often serving as a form of entertainment during gatherings and celebrations.
Music accompaniment: Music accompaniment refers to the supportive musical parts that enhance a primary melody, creating a fuller sound and enriching the overall performance. In dance traditions, especially within Appalachian culture, music accompaniment plays a critical role by providing rhythm and structure that complements the dancers' movements. This relationship between music and dance not only heightens the emotional impact but also helps maintain the tempo essential for traditional Appalachian dances.
Old-time music: Old-time music is a genre rooted in the folk traditions of the Appalachian region, characterized by its use of traditional instruments like the fiddle, banjo, and guitar. This style of music often reflects the experiences and stories of the Appalachian people, serving as a way to maintain cultural identity and community bonds.
Old-time string bands: Old-time string bands are musical groups that typically feature traditional acoustic instruments such as the fiddle, banjo, mandolin, guitar, and bass, playing folk music rooted in Appalachian culture. These bands play a significant role in the social and cultural fabric of Appalachian communities, often accompanying dances and community gatherings, thereby preserving regional musical traditions.
Percussive footwork: Percussive footwork refers to a style of dance where the dancer creates rhythmic sounds by striking the floor with their feet. This technique is a key element in various Appalachian dance traditions, showcasing the dancer's skill and enhancing the overall musicality of the performance. It often emphasizes sharp, clear sounds that align with the accompanying music, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural heritage of Appalachian communities.
Rhythm and tempo: Rhythm and tempo refer to the patterns of sounds in music and dance, with rhythm being the arrangement of sounds in time, and tempo indicating the speed at which those patterns occur. Together, they play a crucial role in Appalachian dance traditions, as they influence how dancers move and interact with the music, creating a dynamic interplay between sound and movement.
Scots-Irish Heritage: Scots-Irish heritage refers to the cultural background and lineage of the Scots who migrated to Ireland and later to America, particularly to the Appalachian region. This heritage significantly influenced various aspects of Appalachian culture, including language, music, food, and social practices, creating a unique blend that reflects the histories of both Scotland and Ireland as well as the challenges faced during migration.
Scottish Reels: Scottish reels are traditional folk dance forms that originated in Scotland and involve a lively, fast-paced movement often accompanied by upbeat music. These dances are characterized by their rhythmic patterns and the use of specific formations, such as circles or lines, where dancers often engage in intricate footwork and coordinated movements. They play a significant role in Appalachian dance traditions, showcasing the cultural exchange between Scottish immigrants and the local Appalachian communities.
Shawnee: The Shawnee are a Native American tribe originally from the Ohio Valley region, known for their rich cultural heritage and historical significance in the Appalachian region. They played a crucial role in the interactions between Native Americans and European settlers, particularly during periods of conflict and negotiation over land and resources. Their cultural practices, including dance traditions, have contributed to the vibrant tapestry of Appalachian heritage.
Social bonding: Social bonding refers to the connections and relationships that form between individuals within a group, fostering a sense of belonging and community. In the context of dance traditions, these bonds are strengthened through shared experiences, collective participation, and the celebration of cultural identity, all of which are integral to creating a cohesive social fabric.
Square dancing: Square dancing is a traditional folk dance characterized by four couples arranged in a square formation, where dancers execute various choreographed moves led by a caller. This lively and communal activity is often accompanied by folk music, creating a vibrant atmosphere that enhances social bonding and cultural expression. It reflects the rich heritage of Appalachian culture, intertwining with the region's folk music, old-time melodies, and distinct dance traditions.
Syncopated rhythms: Syncopated rhythms are musical patterns that emphasize off-beats or weaker beats in a measure, creating a sense of surprise and excitement. This technique adds complexity to the music, making it more engaging and dynamic. In dance traditions, syncopation often drives the movement, influencing footwork and overall energy in performances.
Virginia Reel: The Virginia Reel is a traditional American folk dance that dates back to the 17th century, characterized by its lively music and interactive formation. This dance typically involves couples moving in a circular pattern, alternating roles as they engage with other dancers, reflecting the communal spirit of Appalachian dance traditions. The Virginia Reel has deep roots in both European and American cultures, contributing to the rich tapestry of folk dances in the Appalachian region.