Aide Jano

History

A variation of the Macedonian dance Lesnoto.

Rhythm

The music is in 7/8 time, which is counted 3-2-2.

Steps

Version 1

Start in a circle, arms in a W hold, facing slightly right of centre

Step to the side with the right foot, lift the left in front, then step across in front with the left.

Step to the side with the right, then touch the left to the side twice.

Step to the side with the left, then touch the right to the side twice.

Step to the side with the right, then touch the left in front twice.

Step forward with the left, rock back onto the right, then cross in front with the left.

The last two steps are fast so be ready to go straight into the sequence again!

Version 2

I learnt this version from Linda James in 2009.

Start in a circle, arms in a V hold, facing right.

Take three steps forward in slow-quick-quick rhythm, starting with the right.

Step forward with the left (slow) then pivot to face centre while 'bouncing' twice (quick-quick).

Step forwards with the right (slow), then point forward with the left (slow).

Step back with the left (slow), step to the side with the right (quick), then step across in front with the left while turning to face right (quick).

Music

There is a specific tune for this dance, but it can also be done to any Lesnoto tune.

Ajde Jano from Spiorad by Talitha MacKenzie.

Aide Jano from Izvor - The Source Volume 1 produced by Yves Moreau.

Dance description by Andy Bettis - July 2010