Line Dance

Quite a few of our subscribers have been asking for this one, so here it is at last! Even if you're not a country music fan, you will find it difficult to resist moving along with this song - especially once the line dancing begins. In fact, when we recorded this one for the Performance/Accompaniment cassette, some of our kids who were initially put out by the style, soon found themselves stepping along...and enjoying it! Needless to say, those who enjoy country music were enthusiastic from the beginning. If you listen to the P/A cassette, on side one you will definitely hear the distinct sounds of stomping little feet (on carpet!) during the guitar solo.

The melody and lyrics of this song are very, very simple and can be learned with just one or two readings. This makes it suitable for just about any grade level.

The line dance itself is also quite easy, so you should have no problem learning it as well. The lyric sheet on page 44 gives an explanation of each set of moves across from each line for ease of learning. You will note a couple of instructions on the piano/vocal score as well. For example, you can substitute a "grapevine" step in the first series of sideways steps. To grapevine left, take one step left, then cross behind the left foot with the right foot. Cross in front with the left foot still to the left and touch down with the right foot. Repeat in the opposite direction for the right grapevine. Bending slightly forward at the waist while grapevining may not only make it a little easier for some kids, but it is also an appropriate move for the dance style.

Another indication on the score refers to the knee lifting. Ideally on beat one, each dancer should step down with her left foot and then lift her right knee on beat two. Right foot down on three, and left knee up on four finishes the measure. It is possible to step down and lift the same knee, but it is a little awkward to do.

As with all dance movements, you can alter anything you want to. Particularly if you perform it with your older students, invite them to creatively adapt the steps or completely re-choreograph them. The ones given are meant to be simple enough to use at any grade level, so it may not seem challenging enough for your older kids.

Whatever you do, once your line dancers are comfortable with remembering the steps, encourage them to be enthusiastic when performing. Free movement and fluidity will come more naturally if you let them know it's okay. You might even demonstrate your own lack in inhibitions to them to get them going...

And, by the way, if you do have the P/A cassette, be sure your students get to listen to the country guitar. His solos and last few measures are a real hoot!