SCHOTTISCHE

social folk dance for couples, possibly Scottish or German in origin. It became a popular ballroom dance in the 19th century in Europe and the Americas, and it appears in many folk-dance traditions, including the Scottish, Scandinavian, and Mexican. The step pattern common to the numerous variations is three brisk steps and a hop. Commonly, couples circle around the room, promenading forward, turning round each other, or varying the dance with additional figures. The music is in 2/4 or 4/4 time.