Tamzara

History

An Armenian dance. I leart this version from Cindy Kelly.

Rhythm

The dance is in 9/8, split into 2-2-2-3 or 2-2-2-1-2 (when there are stamps).

Steps

Start in a line, arms in a W hold, facing centre.

Step to the side with the right while moving the arms to the right. Cross behind with the left while moving the arms to the left.
Repeat.

Step forward with the right, then lift the left while bringing the arms down.
Step forward with the left while bringing the arms back up.
Stamp twice (quickly) with the right.

Step back with the right, then lift the left while bringing the arms down.
Step forward with the left while bringing the arms back up.
Stamp twice with the right.

Step back with the right, then lift the left while bringing the arms down.
Step back with the left while bringing the arms back up.
Close with the right.

Variation

Replce the final close step with a flat touch forward with the right foot.
Learnt from Sylvia Edge-Perkins in 2012

Music

Tamzara from Gorani by The Shoghakn Ensemble.

Tamzara from Halay Havalari 3 by Ibrahim Ezmez.

Dance description by Andy Bettis - 4/2012