Boston Lykeion Ellinidon

The Tsamiko is one of the two national dances of Greece along with the Kalamatiano. Although it originated with the Tsamides, the dance has developed many versions and variations and is dance throughout Greece.

Tsamiko is danced to a 3/4 rhythm.  The rhythm can be counted as "slow-quick" or ta-a ta in its simplest form.  (ta-a is twice as long as ta)

Steps

Step to the right with the right foot. Cross over with the left foot and quickly move the right so that your feet are about shoulder length apart.  Continue this pattern for 3 measures.  The and's represent the quick beat and the crossing over with the left foot.

1, and-2, and-3, and-4 

Now on the "and" raise your left foot in front of the right foot and quickly place it  back down where it was.  This is "and-5".

Now repeat the cross-over move, but crossing over with the right foot first.  This is "and-6".

To end the basic figure, raise the right foot in front of the left and quickly put it back down where it was (and-7).  To get into the next set cross over with the left for "and-1".

The slow or long beat can be divide into three quick steps resulting in a count ti -ti-ta-ta.  This step moves a lot faster as a results of the added steps.

Variations

It is danced in a circle by both men and women.  The men's versions usually are more emphatic, with more motion and more elaborate moves.  Women's versions are characterised by intricate footwork and stately posture.

Songs

A particular women's version of Tsamiko is danced to the song Despo. Other ''tsamika'' include "O Yannis o Marathianos", Sarakatsaniko syrto and "Itia".