Introduction
The type of dance selected for the present report is Irish dance (ID) and, in particular, Irish jig (IJ). ID is a significant part of Ireland’s heritage and has many features that distinguish it from other dances from around the world (“Everything,” 2014). ID is formed by a combination of energetic yet rigid movements, varied music, and diverse clothing, with IJ being one of ID’s most favored styles.
Origin of Irish Dance
It is meaningful first to consider the culture the dance comes from to understand ID’s distinctive qualities. It appears that ID has evolved and, while initially originating with the Celts and druids, has been influenced by other European nations (Celtic Titles Nature Reserve [CTNR], 2023; “Everything,” 2014). For instance, IJ is believed to have been introduced into ID through English influence and to have gained popularity in Ireland in the 17th century (Harris, 2022).
In the 18th century, the profession of traveling dance teacher emerged, and ID became more disciplined, taking the form it has today. During that period, dances took place in small, crowded rural pubs and barns, limiting people’s movement and pushing them to be more active with their feet rather than their upper bodies. ID can often be observed at feis, which used to be a Celtic celebration with extensive socializing and, in modern times, represents a festival with dancing competitions (CTNR, 2023; “Everything,” 2014). Overall, ID comes from an ancient culture that experienced external influences and has promoted dancing at social events, even in crowded spaces.
Classification of Irish Dance
To better understand the nature of ID and IJ, it is important to note that the former can be divided into three categories. Set, social, and step dancing routines are the primary forms of ID, with distinctions in footwork, number of dancers, and level of contact (CTNR, 2023; “Everything,” 2014). Of particular interest is the latter of the three, which is regarded as the flagship of ID by the Irish Dancing Commission (“Everything,” 2014). In step routines, dancers focus on fast, complex footwork while keeping their upper bodies still, given the aforementioned background of ID (CTNR, 2023).
Similarly, IJ seems to belong to the step category because it involves moving one’s feet and legs, with little torso movement and arms held strictly downward. IJ does not allow touching between the dancers and is split into light, slip, single, hop, and treble jigs. For example, during the former, foot movements are short and rapid, whereas during the latter, they are characterized by heavy footwork (Harris, 2022). Accordingly, both ID and IJ exhibit several variations, with IJ representing a more classic form of ID.
Role of Music
Music plays a significant role in ID, though the use of specific instruments has changed over time. Traditionally, ID was accompanied by singing or the sound of a harp or bagpipe (CTNR, 2023; “Everything,” 2014). However, the music has changed as dances have become more complex, with the emergence of new routines requiring the use of various musical tools (“Everything,” 2014). Nowadays, ID can be joined by a fiddle, similar to a violin; a bodhran, a hand-held drum played with a beater; a concertina, comparable to an accordion; and a tin whistle.
Notably, solo dances are usually accompanied by a single instrument, whereas couples’ and group dances are more likely to be accompanied by a band (CTNR, 2023; “Everything,” 2014). In terms of IJ, it seems that the use of a certain sound depends on a particular routine. For example, while light jig appears to require a faster rhythm, treble jig seems to need slower-paced music (Harris, 2022). Consequently, ID and music go hand in hand and transform together.
Costumes and Gender
One more interesting aspect of ID is clothing, which is quite diverse. As music has changed with the increasing complexity of ID, so has attire. Both in historical and modern times, formal and flexible attire have been common, though nowadays ornate and colorful costumes are more favored, especially in competitions (CTNR, 2023; “Everything,” 2014). For instance, in IJ, men are likely to have red and green in their appearance, while women can be seen in white, red, green, or all three colors (Harris, 2022).
In general, male dancers wear trousers and shirts with accessories, whereas female performers wear tailored dresses (CTNR, 2023; “Everything,” 2014). Nonetheless, the most important element of appearance in ID and especially in IJ, is one’s footwear, with the choice depending on the kind of dance. For example, women can wear specific soft shoes for slip and single jigs. However, men are likely to wear real shoes that make a distinct clicking sound (CTNR, 2023; “Everything,” 2014). Therefore, ID attire has been modified over time, is diverse, and is based on a particular dance.
Conclusion
To conclude, ID is created through a mixture of movements that are simultaneously energetic and stern, various music and attire, with IJ taking a special place in ID. The discussed elements fit together rather organically as ID comes from a culture that encourages dancing in social contexts and involves clothes and sounds that have transformed alongside ID to enrich diverse performances. IJ is representative of ID because it demonstrates specific qualities of dancing, for example, different shoes one may wear depending on a certain jig. Consequently, ID is a captivating type of dance, the exploration of which can begin with IJ.
References
Celtic Titles Nature Reserve. (2023). Everything you need to know about Irish dancing. Celtic Titles.
Everything you need to know about Irish dancing. (2014). Claddagh Design.
Harris, C. (2022). Jig dance: History, steps, costumes & more. City Dance Studios.