St. Andrew’s night is a special occasion to celebrate our patron saint and Scotland’s nationhood. However, this tradition seems to be less popular nowadays. It’s sad to see that it’s not as celebrated as it used to be. This year, Iron Broo only managed to perform at two St. Andrews ceilidh nights. On the other hand, we were excited about our second trip to Luxembourg to play for the St. George’s International School’s St. Andrews ceilidh.

A new Ceilidh Dance

The George Hamm Luxembourg Reel

Dance Instructions, credited to Sandy Mathers (fiddle) of Iron Broo Ceilidh Band, title by the children of St. George’s International School Luxembourg.

• Lots of couples in a longwise set.
  Gents give left shoulder to band, ladies give right.
  All hold hands in line with last couples joining hands to make a horseshoe formation.
• 1st and 2nd gents make an arch, 1st lady draws all the line through the arch and round the back, to original postions again. (16)
• Repeat the mirrored movement with 1st and 2nd ladies making the arch and 1st gent pulling the line through and round back. (16)
• Top 2 couples make Right Hand Star for (8), Left Hand Star for (8)
• Same 2 couples then form a circle of 4, spin for (8) and continue the spin while moving to the bottom of the set to remake the horseshoe formation…(8)

After the Ceilidh, a place to reflect

After spending a wonderful evening entertaining the children and indulging in the delicious half-time refreshments provided by the kids and their teachers, Sandy and I decided to head over to our favourite bar in Luxembourg. We had on a previous trip scouted out the place and found that Cafe Hammstuff was perfect for us. We enjoyed some local beer and a lovely glass of Cognac while catching up with some friendly faces. We are both eagerly looking forward to our next visit.

What’s your favourite St. Andrews night memory? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.