The Sound of Music: Austrian Folk Dance

The Sound of Music: Austrian Folk Dance is a blog dedicated to exploring the traditional folk dances of Austria.

Introduction

In The Sound of Music, Maria (Julie Andrews) and the von Trapp children perform “The Lonely Goatherd” as an example of traditional Austrian folk dance. However, there is more to Austrian folk dancing than what is seen in the movie. Traditional Austrian folk dancing includes a wide variety of dances that are specific to different regions of the country.

There are a few things that are common to all Austrian folk dances. Many of the dances are performed in a circle or line, with couples holding hands. Many of the dances also have specific steps that must be followed. Some of the dances may seem simple, but they can be quite challenging if you don’t know the steps.

If you’re interested in learning more about Austrian folk dance, there are many resources available online and in libraries. You can also find DVDs and videos that will teach you how to do the different dances.

What is Austrian Folk Dance?

Folk dancing is an important part of Austrian culture, and has been around for centuries. There are many different regional styles of folk dance in Austria, each with its own unique history and traditions.

Austrian folk dance is usually performed in groups, and often features special costumes and traditional music. The dances are often used to celebrate special occasions or festivals, and are a great way to experience Austrian culture.

If you’re interested in learning more about Austrian folk dance, there are plenty of resources available online. You can also check with your local Austrian cultural center or embassy for more information.

The History of Austrian Folk Dance

The history of Austrian folk dance is a long and varied one, dating back to the early Middle Ages. Since then, the country has undergone many changes, both political and social, which have helped to shape the various dances that are now considered part of Austrian folk dance tradition.

One of the earliest recorded examples of Austrian folk dance is the so-called “Lantern Dance”, or Laternltanz, which was first mentioned in a document from 1348. This dance was popular in both Austria and Bavaria, and it is thought to be the ancestor of several other later dances, such as the Polka and the Waltz.

Other early dances include the Schwabentanz (“Swabian Dance”), first mentioned in 1463, and the Landler, which was first mentioned in 1517. The Landler is particularly interesting because it is thought to be the direct ancestor of the modern-day schuhplattler (a traditional Bavarian folk dance).

As Austria began to urbanize in the late 18th century, many of these traditional dances began to die out. However, some were adapted to fit the new social conditions and went on to become even more popular than before. The Waltz, for example, was originally a peasant dance from Austria’s Alpine region but underwent a transformation when it was taken up by aristocrats in Vienna during the late 1700s. It soon became one of the most popular ballroom dances in Europe and America.

Today, Austrian folk dances are still performed throughout the country, often at traditional festivals or events. They are also sometimes taught in schools as part of pupils’ cultural education.

The Popularity of Austrian Folk Dance Today

The Sound of Music: Austrian Folk Dance – (The Sound of Music: Austrian Folk Dance)
While the movie The Sound of Music brought the von Trapp family and Austrian folk dance to the attention of the world, this type of dance has been around for centuries. In fact, it is still popular in Austria today.

Austrian folk dance is a form of partner dance that is usually danced to music from Bavaria and Austria. It is often danced in a line or circle, with couples holding hands and moving together in time with the music. There are many different types of Austrian folk dances, each with its own unique steps and traditions.

One of the most popular Austrian folk dances is the waltz. This dance originated in Austria in the early 19th century, and it quickly spread to other parts of Europe and North America. The waltz is a smooth, elegant dance that is usually performed to music with a 3/4 time signature.

Another popular Austrian folk dance is the polka. This upbeat dance originated in Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic) in the early 19th century, and it quickly became popular in Austria as well. The polka is a lively dance that is usually performed to music with a 2/4 or 4/4 time signature.

Austrian folk dance is still very popular today, both in Austria and around the world. If you ever have the opportunity to see it performed, be sure to check it out!

How to Do Austrian Folk Dance

There are many different types of Austrian folk dance, each with its own unique steps and music. The most popular dances are the waltz, polka, and mazurka.

To do the Austrian waltz, hold your partner close and step forward on your left foot, then your right. Then, step backward on your left foot, then your right. Next, step to the side on your left foot, then your right. Finally, turn around in a clockwise direction, stepping forward on your left foot, then your right. Repeat these steps in time with the music.

The polka is a lively dance that is perfect for beginners. To do this dance, start by holding your partner close and stepping forward on your left foot. Then hop on your left foot while kicking out your right leg to the side. Repeat this step with your right foot leading. As you dance, you can also add in some twirls and spins for added flair!

The mazurka is a slower dance that originates from the Mazovia region of Poland. To do this dance, hold your partner close and step forward on your left foot while tapping your right foot behind you. Then repeat this step with your right foot leading. As you dance, you can add in some turns and twirls to add variety to the steps.

Conclusion

Thank you for watching our presentation on Austrian folk dance! We hope you enjoyed learning about this traditional form of dance and music.

We would like to give a special thanks to our presenter, Rudolf von Trapp, for sharing his knowledge and passion for Austrian folk dance with us. Without his expertise, this presentation would not have been possible.

We hope you have a better understanding of what Austrian folk dance is and how it differs from other types of dance. We encourage you to seek out opportunities to experience this beautiful art form in person. Thank you again for watching!