Kalamatiano

The Kalamatiano is one of the two national dances of Greece that is named after the town of Kalamata. It is danced to a 7/8 rhythm and can be counted __1__-2-3,__1__-2,__1__-2 with steps on the ones. It can also be counted as slow-quick-quick.

This popular dance has many variations, although there are certain common traits. The Kalamatiano is always danced in a circle. Dance forward (in the line of direction) for three measures and then back for one measure. This corresponds to 9 steps forward and 3 steps back.

Style note

The popularity of the Kalamatiano has given rise to a phenomenon where people will dance kalamatiano-style to any slow-quick-quick rhythm. This is unfortunate as it sets aside the syrto, the ballos and often the tsifteteli. Traditionally, dancers in the circle should hold hands in a W-hold and arms should be neither rigid, nor moved in circles or up and down.