Alta es la Luna

History

A dance from the Greek Jewish communities, originally from northern Greece. Also known as Horón (dance). I learnt it from Steve Kotansky in 2004.

Rhythm

The music is in 4/4 time, danced as 2-1-1 (slow, quick, quick).

Steps

Start in a line with arms in a W hold, facing right.

First part

Step forward with the right, then the left (can be very small), then the right.

Repeat with opposite feet but still moving to the right.

Turning to face centre cross in front with the right, step to the side with the left, cross behind with the right.

Step to the side with the left, cross in front with the right, replace the left.

Do the first part twice.

Second part

Make a tiny jump and land with the right foot in front of the left on the beat. Bend the knees and bring the arms down so that they are in front of a normal V hold, with elbows straight but not locked. Step back onto the left while relaxing the arms into a V hold, then close the right beside the left.

Repeat this with opposite feet.

Do the second part twice.

Music

Aide Jano from Findhorn 2 - Summer 2004 produced by Steve Kotansky.

The music for the entire sequence is played as an introduction, the dance starts with the singing.

Dance description by Andy Bettis 3/2005