Dhipat

History

This is a Pontic Greek dance. I learnt it from Joe Kaloyanides Graziosi in 2000.

Rhythm

The rhythm for this dance is 9/8, danced as 2-2-2-3 or, as the first step is always slow or followed by a small lift, as 4-2-3. The singing and musical phrases are out of phase with the dance steps (as they are described here) so you really need to LISTEN TO THE DRUM! If you tap along you should be able to find the 2-2-2-3 rhythm which will lead you into the dance, but this takes a lot of practice.

Steps

Start in a W hold in a line, facing right of centre.

Step forward with the right foot, slightly diagonally to the right of centre. Bring the left leg forward with a slight bounce, then step forward with the left, and stamp beside it (not too hard) with the right.
Step straight back from the centre with the right, bring the left foot back with a slight bounce, step back with the left.
Step to the side with the right. Slowly sway onto the left, move the right foot slightly forward and sway onto it, then sway back onto the left.

Once you have found the rhythm start at the beginning of any musical phrase.

Music

The music I usually use is Stis Trihas To Yefiri by M. Kaliontzidis but I don't have any details of the recording.