Beginner Classes
Our Fall 2026 Beginner Class starts Tuesday, September 15.
By the end of this class you'll be dancing at the popular Mainstream level and will know the related calls, terms and concepts. You'll be a member of the club... and you'll have a lot of fun learning!
The class will meet every Tuesday for 15 weeks, ending before Christmas. Please plan to attend as many sessions as possible.
Location: St. Andrew's United Methodist Church, 4111 Alma Street, Palo Alto
Time: The class meets every Tuesday from 7:00 to 9:15 pm.
Format: The evening starts with an Advanced tip (dance) at 6:45 pm. There will be an informal (optional) review of calls taught the previous week from 6:35 to 7:00 pm, and short Plus tips between the class tips.
Instructors: Classes will be taught by our rotating line-up of staff callers, with help from our "angels" (experienced club members).
Price: $150. Please bring cash or a check made payable to El Camino Reelers. You may also pay in advance via PayPal using the PayPal button on this page.
Light refreshments (snacks/beverages) included.
Student price includes FREE admission to club dances, picnics and potlucks during the fall, with class-level tips. Come out and practice your skills and have fun dancing with the Reelers!
We will be holding a Mainstream-to-Plus class starting in January 2027. Our next beginner class will be in the Fall of 2027.
Beginner Class Resources
2026 Beginner Class information sheet
One page summary of the class
Resources for Learning Square Dance Calls
(Kurt's handout for the Fall 2026 "Green" Beginner Class)
Calls Taught List
Calls Taught So Far (2026 Fall Beginner Class)
Click on a call name to see a description of the call, with diagrams, videos, and helpful hints. Instructors will update this list after each class.
Beginner Class Syllabus
Lesson Plan for "SD 101: Modern Square Dance Fundamentals"
(15 week class, Fall 2026)
Recovery Techniques
Square Dance Recovery Techniques
If you get lost and aren't sure where to go (Kurt's tips, June 2024)