Tony Parkes' Contra Dance Calling book reveals evolving tempo and dance length norms
1992 vs 2010: dance tempos, lengths, and the decline of 'four potato' starts
Jeff Kaufman's notes on Tony Parkes' "Contra Dance Calling" reveal how the community's standards have shifted since 1992. Parkes, a renowned caller and piano player, advocated for higher tempos (120bpm, with a range of 112-128) and longer dances (10 minutes). However, Kaufman observes that modern contra dancers and bands often prefer slower tempos around 108-122bpm and dances lasting 8-9 minutes. Parkes' original recommendations remained unchanged in the 2010 edition, suggesting either a persistent gap between authoritative advice and actual practice or a regional difference.
Parkes also discusses the use of recorded music versus live bands, acknowledging that recordings can be a practical starting point for new dance groups, though live music provides an irreplaceable immediacy. Interestingly, Parkes does not describe the "four potato" start (a four-beat intro from the band) that became standard before 1992, indicating that the tradition may have evolved earlier. Kaufman's analysis provides a valuable snapshot of how contra dance calling practices have evolved, even as the fundamental techniques remain relevant.
- Parkes recommends 120bpm tempos and 10-minute dances, but modern practice favors 108-122bpm and 8-9 minutes.
- Recorded music is considered a viable alternative for new groups, though live bands offer unmatched immediacy.
- The absence of 'four potato' starts in Parkes' text suggests the practice was already standard before 1992.
Why It Matters
For callers and dancers, this reveals how community norms have shifted, guiding programming of modern dances.