The schuhplattler dance originated in the alpine regions of Austria as a courtship display, when men would perform elaborate leaps and hip movements to impress unmarried women. Some dances now are co-ed, but males still slap their knees and feet. Stu and Ronnie Lipner, who compiled Folk Dances of Austria, Vol. 3, write: “So whether you be a Dancer, or Teacher, slap yourself silly if necessary, practice until your hands and feet hurt, let yourselves go, and have one grand ball in doing it.” Liner notes include intricate measure-by-measure dance instructions for every song.

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