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If you are unsure that Scottish dancing is right for you or your child, please feel free to schedule a meeting with Ms. Kenyon. While meeting face to face you can ask any questions you may have, or simply get to know the instructor!

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History

The Stirling Scottish Dancers and its founder Ms. Aislinn Kenyon are pleased to be opening its doors this fall of 2018. After sixteen years of exams and countless hours of practice, Ms. Kenyon has achieved the credentials to commence her instruction. Her goal is to create a school where students learn the essentials early on, allowing for ease of learning, and a pathway of enjoyment as the years go on. As well as working with dancers who are ready to work as a team, encouraging others while dancing to the best of their ability.

The use of the name 'Stirling" has significance for Ms. Kenyon as it is a lovely city in Scotland, highlighting the school's origin, as well as the homophone with the word Sterling, meaning 'thoroughly excellent' to portray the quality of dancing that will be taught. 

Highland dancing can be traced as far back as the 1440's. Warriors would perform a rudimentary version of the modern-day Sword Dance as a testament to their skill; by crossing the swords and laying them on the ground. The warrior would dance intricate steps over the blades, claiming that if he didn't touch the sword, he would prevail in battle the next day. Nowadays, Highland Dancing is certainly not as crude in its intentions; dancers can take their careers on the path of competition, performing in Highland Games, or simply using the dance as a social platform. Previously segregated to having the men execute the Highland dances, leaving the dainty, though equally as difficult, National dances to the ladies. Scottish dancing now encompasses all forms for all dancers, allowing a full coverage of movements and techniques.

Scottish Country dancing is another form offered by many dance schools. While most specialize in one or the other; Stirling Scottish Dancers find it essential to include it in the curriculum as it is prominently used in social gathering amongst the Scottish communities and allows for dancers to refine their etiquette and grace. The first published book of Scottish Country dances was that of John Playford in 1651 with 105 dances. Since then, there have been many societies founded, though the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society has the most prominence. It was founded in 1923 and has since gained H.R.H Queen Elizabeth II as a patron in 1946. The ever growing mixture of classic movements and modern adaptations allows for an endless supply of fun and unique dances for all ages to enjoy.