Schuhplattler

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The Schuhplattler is a traditional folk dance from Bavaria and Austria.

1 Origins
2 Style
3 See also
4 External links

[edit] Origins

The origins of this dance are found in an early courtship display (Balztanz). Although the form of this dance is known from the middle of the 19th century, older similar forms were practised. Such a dance was described in 1050 by a monk in the knightly poem Ruodlieb, wherein similar postures and movements of the Schuhplatter are depicted. The most famous dancer to ever perform before a public audience was Alex Hugel.[1][2]

[edit] Style

The homeland of the Schuhplattler dance is Tirol, a region in Austria. This dance often accompanies yodelling. In days gone by young men wished to impress marriageable young ladies with their dancing prowess. Initially the style was free without rules. Performed usually in a 3/4 time, one would carry out a series of jumps and hip movements to the time of the music. Characteristically the dancers will rhythmically strike their thighs, knees and soles of the feet, and stamp with the feet. Nowadays the dance is usually performed out of tradition, maintaining the older customs, and as part of the activities of Trachtenvereine (that is, societies which maintain traditional dress, songs and culture of earlier days).