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Join me for a five-week exploration of Bulgarian folk dances and the music of the gaida (Bulgarian bagpipe), with a particular focus on experiencing dances accompanied by live bagpipe music as well as recordings.This is the second part of the series, and we will build on the dances and ideas introduced in the first session. On 25 September, we will begin by revisiting the dances from Part 1, with the opportunity to refresh your memory, catch up, and bring everyone together before moving on to new material. From there, we will gradually introduce new dances, breaking down the steps and combinations and paying attention to how the movement fits the music and rhythm.
Who is this for?
This series is aimed at people who want to really get into Bulgarian folk dance, rather than simply try a different dance class each week. Previous experience with Bulgarian dance is not required, but you should be prepared to practise, concentrate and build on what you learn from week to week.
If you already have experience in other forms of dance, folk music or rhythm-based activities, your existing coordination and rhythmic awareness will be very useful. Beginners are welcome too, provided you are motivated to learn and are comfortable with the idea that some dances and rhythms will take time and repetition to master.
The five sessions are designed as a progressive journey, so committing to the full five weeks will give you the best experience and allow us to go further with the material.
What to expect:
We'll start gently and progressively increase the tempo and complexity as the evening develops:
🎵 Discover the Bulgarian gaida — its different types, basic construction, sound and role in Bulgarian musical traditions, with live demonstrations.
🔥 Warm-up and rhythmic exercises using Bulgarian music.
👣 Work on basic steps and combinations, with detailed breakdowns and plenty of repetition.
🕺 Learn several Bulgarian dances, ranging from relatively accessible patterns to more challenging combinations and rhythms.
🎶 Dance with live gaida accompaniment as well as recorded music, experiencing how the same dance feels when the musical context changes.
💪 The final 45 minutes will be more intensive, with faster tempos and more demanding material, particularly suited to improvers and experienced dancers.
The aim is to understand, practise and feel the rhythms and movements, gradually becoming more comfortable with the distinctive character of Bulgarian horo.
A small but important studio requirement:
Please bring a pair of soft-soled indoor shoes that you will use only in the studio. Trainers or similar footwear suitable for physical activity are perfectly fine. There is space to change shoes and a changing room.
Bare feet and socks are not permitted in the studio, and you will not be able to participate or move around the dance space without appropriate indoor footwear. Please make sure you bring your shoes with you — no refunds will be given if you arrive without suitable footwear.
Before we dance…
We'll be at the venue from 7:00 pm for a relaxed chat and some snacks. The dance practice starts at 7:30 pm, so you're welcome to arrive any time between 7:00 and 7:30 to settle in and meet the group.
Five weeks. Bulgarian rhythms. Live gaida. Lots of dancing and plenty to discover beyond simply learning the steps.
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Join me for the special evening at the Cobblestone pub on September 22nd - Rhythm and music in Bulgarian folk dances. Full memebrship gives you free access to this event, at least one more Sunday workshop (in October) and more...
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Nicola Farcas School of Ballet, Unit 4 Santry Hall Industrial Estate,Dublin, Ireland
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