MODULE 24: Varsovienne (Germany)

I.                    Objectives:

At the end of the lesson, the students are expected to:

a.       enumerate the elements of Varsovienne dance;

b.      perform the basic steps of Varsovienne; and

c.       appreciate the Varsovienne dance.

II.                  Overview:

Varsovienne came from Germany. It is a slow, graceful dance in ¾ time with an accented down beat in alternative measure with the key signature B minor. It combines elements of waltz, mazurka, and polka. It is one of the smoothest and graceful dances known.

III.                Learning Content:

Varsovienne known originated around 1850 in Warsaw, Poland in honor of Mount Versevius and was introduced to France by a young dance instructor named De’sire’ in America in 1853. The dance was popular in 19^th century in America, where it was danced to the tune Put Your Little Foot. It is a slow, graceful dance in ¾ time with an accented down beat in alternative measures with the key signature B minor. Ot combines the elements of waltz, mazurka, and polka. It quickly became a favorite folkdance in Scandinavian countries as well.

The unique arm hold by the same name- also known as the promenade hold is used in other dance styles such as American square dance, contra dance and some ballroom dances.

The dance came from Poland is a form of the Warschauer that, however is danced meanwhile in whole Germany. Its special feature is the constant change between forceful mazurka steps and atmosphere-full waltz forms. Varsovienne is form Pomeranian and danced in a Weizacker costume.

·         The dance is in ¾ time signature.

·         Key signature of B minor

·         Combines elements of waltz, mazurka, and polka

·         Music is in the tune of Foot Your Little Feet