This entry is part of the Lexicon of Klezmer Terminology (LKT). The LKT compiles a wide array of source materials that shed light on the historical and contemporary state of knowledge about klezmer music. Each entry includes a number of citations from primary and secondary sources that include or refer to the term in question. It also indicates whether musical notation or sound recordings are included in the source. By clicking on the bibliographic hyperlink at the end of each citation, you get the full reference.
“The bride had her space, where the women quibbled with the girls, [and] there a konter-tants was danced for [the women’s] approval, one which only the Modnitzers knew. This [dance] was already part of the high hand-dances.” [Vilna, Lithuania, 1890s]. Matskevits 1893.
'All the girlfriends and acquaintances came and we were happy and danced a lot... At the end, we did also the Contredanse performed in a stately manner. But the Walzer was not really lively.” [Brest-Litovsk, Poland, 1848]. Wengeroff 1913, I, p. 182.