Schottische

Part of the Folk & Traditional family · 1840s

Step-step-step-hop partner dance — spread from Scotland across Europe and the Americas. Originated in Scotland/Bohemia · 1840s. Typically danced around 100-130 BPM (medium).

About Schottische

Family: Folk & Traditional
Origin: Scotland/Bohemia
Era: 1840s
Tempo: 100-130 BPM (Medium)
Format: Partner
Beginner accessibility: Approachable

Step-step-step-hop pattern; 4/4; moderate tempo; spread across Europe and to North and South America.

What to expect: Found at folk dance events, Scandinavian festivals, and country dance gatherings. The pattern is simple and easy to learn. Appears in many national folk dance traditions.

Lineage

Roots

Schottische grew out of:

Polka

Branches

Dances that grew from Schottische:

Where to find Schottische events

We don't have verified schottische events on the calendar right now. Check the full event feed for related styles, or submit one if you organize.

Going for the first time

Folk and traditional dance nights vary widely — Scandinavian, English country, square dance, contra. Most are caller-led so you're walked through every figure in real time. No partner needed; the format rotates everyone through the set.

Listen for the caller. Thank your partner and the band. If live music is playing, applaud between tunes.

Related dances

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