Mastering the Art of Calling the Corners: A Comprehensive Guide
Calling the corners is a fundamental technique in various forms of group dance, particularly in square dancing and contra dancing. It’s the process of verbally prompting dancers to execute specific movements in a sequence, creating the flow and patterns that define the dance. This guide provides a detailed explanation of how to effectively call corners, covering the essential elements, techniques, and tips for success.
## What is Calling the Corners?
At its core, calling the corners involves giving clear, concise, and timely instructions to dancers. The caller, often positioned in the center of the square or hall, uses a microphone to project their voice and guide the participants through a series of dance figures. The effectiveness of a caller directly impacts the enjoyment and success of the dance. A good caller can make even complex figures accessible to beginners, while a poor caller can leave experienced dancers confused and frustrated.
The phrase “calling the corners” refers both to the general act of calling in square and contra dancing, and a specific figure in the dance. In this case, we refer to the general meaning of the term.
## The Essential Elements of Effective Calling
Several key elements contribute to effective calling. These include clarity, timing, rhythm, projection, and personality. Mastering these elements will significantly improve your ability to guide dancers through complex choreography.
### 1. Clarity
Clarity is paramount. Dancers need to understand immediately what they are being asked to do. This means using precise language, avoiding jargon or ambiguous terms, and enunciating clearly. Speak slowly and deliberately, especially when introducing new figures or variations.
* **Use Consistent Terminology:** Stick to standard dance terms and avoid inventing new ones. If you need to introduce a new term, define it clearly before using it in a call.
* **Avoid Ambiguity:** Phrase your calls in a way that leaves no room for misinterpretation. For example, instead of saying “Go forward,” say “Walk forward four steps.”
* **Enunciate Clearly:** Pay attention to your pronunciation and speak clearly. This is especially important when using a microphone, as poor enunciation can become amplified.
* **Simplify Complex Calls:** Break down complex sequences into smaller, more manageable steps. This makes it easier for dancers to follow along and reduces the risk of confusion.
### 2. Timing
Timing is crucial for keeping the dance flowing smoothly. Calls must be timed to coincide with the music and the dancers’ movements. Ideally, calls should be given slightly ahead of the beat, giving dancers a brief moment to anticipate the upcoming figure.
* **Listen to the Music:** Pay close attention to the music and learn to anticipate the musical cues. This will help you time your calls appropriately.
* **Practice with the Music:** Rehearse your calls with the music to develop a sense of rhythm and timing. This will help you internalize the timing and deliver your calls more smoothly.
* **Observe the Dancers:** Watch the dancers’ movements and adjust your timing accordingly. If they are lagging behind, speed up your calls slightly; if they are ahead, slow down.
* **Use Lead-Ins:** Provide a brief lead-in before each call to prepare the dancers for the upcoming figure. This can be as simple as a verbal cue like “Ready?” or “Next.”
### 3. Rhythm
Rhythm is closely related to timing but focuses on the overall flow and cadence of your calls. A rhythmic caller will create a more engaging and enjoyable experience for the dancers.
* **Speak in a Rhythmic Pattern:** Vary the pitch and volume of your voice to create a more rhythmic delivery. This will make your calls more interesting and easier to follow.
* **Use Pauses Effectively:** Use pauses to create a sense of anticipation and to give dancers time to process the information. Avoid speaking in a monotone voice without any pauses.
* **Match the Rhythm of the Music:** Try to match the rhythm of your calls to the rhythm of the music. This will create a more harmonious and engaging experience for the dancers.
* **Avoid Rushing:** Resist the urge to rush your calls, even if you are feeling nervous. Take your time and speak at a steady, rhythmic pace.
### 4. Projection
Projection refers to the volume and clarity of your voice. Dancers need to be able to hear you clearly, regardless of their position in the square or hall. Using a microphone effectively is crucial for good projection.
* **Speak Loudly and Clearly:** Project your voice to fill the space. Even if you are using a microphone, speak loudly and clearly to ensure that everyone can hear you.
* **Adjust Microphone Placement:** Experiment with different microphone placements to find the optimal position for your voice. Avoid holding the microphone too close to your mouth, as this can cause distortion.
* **Practice with the Microphone:** Practice using the microphone to become comfortable with its settings and limitations. Learn how to adjust the volume and tone to achieve the best sound quality.
* **Monitor Your Volume:** Pay attention to your volume and adjust it as needed. If you are speaking too loudly, you may overwhelm the dancers; if you are speaking too softly, they may not be able to hear you.
### 5. Personality
Personality is what sets a good caller apart from a great one. A caller with a positive attitude, a sense of humor, and a genuine enthusiasm for dancing can create a more enjoyable and engaging experience for everyone.
* **Be Enthusiastic:** Show your enthusiasm for the dance and the music. Your energy will be contagious and will help to motivate the dancers.
* **Be Positive:** Maintain a positive attitude, even when things go wrong. Mistakes are inevitable, but a positive attitude can help to keep the dance fun and enjoyable.
* **Be Humorous:** Use humor to lighten the mood and create a more relaxed atmosphere. A well-timed joke can help to diffuse tension and make the dance more enjoyable.
* **Be Authentic:** Be yourself and let your personality shine through. Authenticity is key to connecting with the dancers and creating a genuine connection.
## Detailed Steps for Calling the Corners
Calling the corners involves a sequence of steps, each designed to guide the dancers through a specific movement or figure. Here’s a detailed breakdown of these steps:
### 1. Preparation
Before you even step up to the microphone, preparation is key. This involves understanding the dance choreography, selecting the appropriate music, and setting up your equipment.
* **Study the Choreography:** Thoroughly review the dance choreography and familiarize yourself with the sequence of figures. Make sure you understand the timing and rhythm of each figure.
* **Select the Music:** Choose music that is appropriate for the dance and the dancers’ skill level. The music should be upbeat and engaging, with a clear and consistent beat.
* **Set Up Your Equipment:** Ensure that your microphone, sound system, and any other equipment are properly set up and functioning correctly. Test the microphone to make sure it is working properly and that the volume is adjusted appropriately.
* **Plan Your Calls:** Plan your calls in advance, but be prepared to adapt to the dancers’ skill level and the flow of the dance. Have a backup plan in case something goes wrong.
### 2. Introduction
The introduction sets the tone for the dance and helps to prepare the dancers for what’s to come. This involves greeting the dancers, introducing yourself (if necessary), and providing a brief overview of the dance.
* **Greet the Dancers:** Start by greeting the dancers with a warm and welcoming message. This will help to create a positive and inviting atmosphere.
* **Introduce Yourself:** If you are new to the group or if there are new dancers present, introduce yourself and provide a brief overview of your experience.
* **Describe the Dance:** Provide a brief overview of the dance, including the style of dance, the difficulty level, and any specific figures or variations that will be used.
* **Set Expectations:** Set expectations for the dance, including the pace, the level of difficulty, and any specific rules or guidelines that should be followed.
### 3. Calling the Figures
This is the heart of calling the corners. It involves giving clear, concise, and timely instructions to the dancers, guiding them through the sequence of figures.
* **Give Clear Instructions:** Use precise language and avoid ambiguity. Be specific about what you want the dancers to do and how you want them to do it.
* **Time Your Calls Appropriately:** Time your calls to coincide with the music and the dancers’ movements. Give your calls slightly ahead of the beat to give the dancers time to anticipate the upcoming figure.
* **Use Lead-Ins:** Provide a brief lead-in before each call to prepare the dancers for the upcoming figure. This can be as simple as a verbal cue like “Ready?” or “Next.”
* **Repeat Calls as Needed:** Repeat calls as needed to ensure that everyone understands what they are supposed to do. Don’t be afraid to repeat a call multiple times if necessary.
* **Correct Mistakes Gently:** If dancers make mistakes, correct them gently and provide constructive feedback. Avoid being critical or judgmental.
### 4. Maintaining Flow
Maintaining flow is crucial for keeping the dance moving smoothly and preventing disruptions. This involves monitoring the dancers’ movements, adjusting your calls as needed, and keeping the music playing.
* **Monitor the Dancers’ Movements:** Watch the dancers’ movements closely to ensure that they are following your instructions and executing the figures correctly.
* **Adjust Your Calls as Needed:** Adjust your calls as needed to accommodate the dancers’ skill level and the flow of the dance. If they are struggling with a particular figure, simplify your calls or provide additional guidance.
* **Keep the Music Playing:** Keep the music playing continuously to maintain the rhythm and energy of the dance. Avoid stopping the music unless absolutely necessary.
* **Fill in the Gaps:** If there are any gaps in the music or in the dancers’ movements, fill them in with your voice. This can help to keep the dance flowing smoothly and prevent disruptions.
### 5. Ending the Dance
The ending of the dance is just as important as the beginning. This involves signaling the end of the dance, thanking the dancers, and providing any final instructions or announcements.
* **Signal the End of the Dance:** Signal the end of the dance with a clear and concise call. This could be as simple as saying “That’s all” or “Thank you.”
* **Thank the Dancers:** Thank the dancers for their participation and their effort. Express your appreciation for their hard work and their enthusiasm.
* **Provide Final Instructions:** Provide any final instructions or announcements, such as information about upcoming dances or events.
* **Invite Feedback:** Invite feedback from the dancers to help you improve your calling in the future. Ask them what they enjoyed about the dance and what they would like to see changed.
## Specific Calls and Figures
While the general principles of calling remain the same, different dances and figures require specific calls. Here are some common examples in square dancing:
* **”Allemande Left”:** “Allemande left your corner, go back and swing your own.”
* **”Do-Si-Do”:** “Do-si-do your partner.”
* **”Promenade”:** “Promenade your partner.”
* **”Right and Left Through”:** “Right and left through.”
* **”Square Through”:** “Square through four.”
* **”Ladies Chain”:** “Ladies chain across.”
* **”Star Through”:** “Star through.”
* **”Dive Through”:** “Dive Through.”
* **”Pass Through”:** “Pass Through.”
* **”Flutterwheel”:** “Flutterwheel.”
Each of these calls has a specific meaning and directs the dancers to perform a particular sequence of movements. The key is to practice these calls until they become second nature.
## Tips for Improving Your Calling
Becoming a skilled caller takes time, practice, and dedication. Here are some additional tips to help you improve your calling:
* **Practice Regularly:** Practice calling on a regular basis, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become.
* **Record Yourself:** Record yourself calling and listen back to identify areas for improvement. Pay attention to your clarity, timing, rhythm, and projection.
* **Attend Workshops and Seminars:** Attend workshops and seminars led by experienced callers to learn new techniques and strategies. This is a great way to network with other callers and learn from their experiences.
* **Seek Feedback:** Ask for feedback from dancers and other callers. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to improve your calling.
* **Observe Other Callers:** Watch and listen to other callers to learn from their techniques and styles. Pay attention to what they do well and what you can incorporate into your own calling.
* **Develop Your Own Style:** While it’s important to learn from others, it’s also important to develop your own unique style. Find what works best for you and let your personality shine through.
* **Be Patient:** Becoming a skilled caller takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Keep practicing and you will eventually reach your goals.
* **Join a Caller’s Association:** Consider joining a caller’s association. These groups provide resources, mentorship, and opportunities for professional development.
* **Study Dance Theory:** Understanding the underlying principles of dance theory can help you to create more interesting and challenging choreography.
* **Network with Musicians:** Building relationships with musicians can lead to collaborative opportunities and enhance the overall dance experience.
* **Learn About Different Dance Traditions:** Exploring different dance traditions can broaden your understanding of dance and inspire new ideas for your own calling.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced callers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
* **Speaking Too Quickly:** Avoid speaking too quickly, as this can make it difficult for dancers to understand you.
* **Using Jargon:** Avoid using jargon or technical terms that the dancers may not understand.
* **Being Unclear:** Avoid being unclear or ambiguous in your calls. Be specific about what you want the dancers to do.
* **Rushing the Dancers:** Avoid rushing the dancers. Give them enough time to execute each figure.
* **Ignoring Mistakes:** Don’t ignore mistakes. Address them gently and provide constructive feedback.
* **Being Negative:** Avoid being negative or critical. Maintain a positive attitude and create a supportive environment.
* **Overcomplicating Things:** Avoid overcomplicating the choreography or the calls. Keep things simple and easy to follow.
## The Importance of Continuous Learning
Calling the corners is a skill that requires continuous learning and refinement. The dance world is constantly evolving, with new figures, new music, and new dancers. To stay relevant and effective, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques.
* **Attend Workshops and Conventions:** Regularly attend workshops and conventions to learn new skills and network with other callers.
* **Read Dance Publications:** Subscribe to dance publications and online forums to stay informed about the latest trends and developments.
* **Watch Online Tutorials:** Watch online tutorials and videos to learn new techniques and improve your calling skills.
* **Experiment with New Ideas:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with new ideas and techniques. This is how you will discover what works best for you and your dancers.
* **Seek Mentorship:** Find a mentor who can provide guidance and support as you continue to develop your calling skills.
## Conclusion
Mastering the art of calling the corners requires a combination of knowledge, skill, and personality. By understanding the essential elements of effective calling, following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, and continuously learning and refining your skills, you can become a skilled and engaging caller who brings joy and excitement to the dance floor. Remember to be clear, concise, and enthusiastic, and to always put the dancers’ experience first. With practice and dedication, you can unlock the power of calling and create memorable dance experiences for everyone involved. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the journey, and let the music guide you!