In 2002 there was...a superb weekend of contra dancing to the exhilarating music of Alterations, and dancing under the cheerful guidance of John Meechan. It was such a happy event from the welcome on Friday to the cream tea on Sunday, all happening in the friendly comfort of Halsway Manor.Equal numbers of men and women set the dancing off to a good start, and the American idea of changing partners after each dance was surely one of the ‘secret ingredients’ that made the weekend ‘buzz’. For all his seemingly relaxed attitude, John guided us through the convolutions of the dances with consummate skill and humour.
Of course the music made the event as Alterations’ vibrant style of playing was so suited to the type of dance we were doing. As long as that exciting pulsating music continued it was not only feet that tapped – it was a whole body effort! The waves of energy rose higher and higher stimulating the band to even greater feats. Those tunes stayed in the system long after the dance had ended – and I probably snored in the rhythm.There was an opportunity for discussion and interchange of ideas, a chance for other callers to work with a great band and a body of dancers already tamed by John. Anyone with an instrument was encouraged to come to a session and learn more about that particular style of music for contra dancing. Some of the keen ones even provided a ‘dawn chorus’ at eight next morning. Brilliant weather had been organised so we were able to sit outside with our morning coffee and later explore the local beauty spots.You really did miss a treat. It was one of the best weekends of the many I have spent at Halsway.
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