Every week, laughter, music and lively footwork fill Inverleith St. Serf’s Church on Clark Road, where one of Edinburgh u3a’s most spirited groups comes together - Scottish Country Dance. Led by enthusiast Muriel S., the group blends tradition, energy and community spirit in one delightful rhythm.
Muriel didn’t set out to become a group leader. In fact, she inherited the role when the previous leader stepped down. But with decades of dance experience - many years of it alongside her late husband - Muriel has embraced the role with both feet. What started as a challenge has turned into a passion. Now, she runs a second class at her local church, where she is also a choir member.
Although not formally trained as a Scottish Country Dance teacher, Muriel brings over twenty years of experience and the confidence gained from a career in education. As a former English and guidance teacher, where she helped students prepare for adult life, she’s well-versed in helping people build skills and confidence - qualities that shine in her class.
Using resources from the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, Muriel prepares each session with care, choosing from a repertoire of traditional and contemporary dances. “It’s such a great mix,” she says. “We’ve had dancers aged sixty to ninety, from total beginners to those who’ve been dancing since school days.”
Her session programme starts with the basics, gradually building up to the more complex steps and reels that Scottish Country Dance is known for. But for Muriel, it's not just about the dance - it’s the friendships that grow that makes it special. “People help each other. It's friendly, supportive and very social.”
Muriel believes that leading a group requires enthusiasm, organisation, and a good understanding of group dynamics. She’s also grateful for her deputy, who handles admin, payments and online communication, freeing Muriel to focus on what she loves most - teaching, chatting, and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere!
Page last updated on 23rd October 2025