Country Dance & Song Society

Individuals nourished and communities strengthened by dancing, singing, and making music together

We connect and support people in building and sustaining vibrant communities through participatory dance, music, and song. We steward the living traditions of English country dance, contra and square dance, morris and sword dance, and the music that is an integral part of these traditions. Learn more

What’s New

July 2025 Song of the Month
Lee Murdock introduces “We’re Going to Pump Out Lake Erie,” sourced from Captain Pearl Nye of Akron, Ohio. This tongue-in-cheek song encapsulates the endless toil of canal work.
Grant funding for 2025 events and projects is still available!
Thanks to your generous giving to our recent appeals and to demonstrated value and need in our community, the CDSS Board recently approved a $10,000 increase in available grant funding for this year.

See our Community Grants page for more information and how to apply.
Natural Disaster Support
We are helping to connect donors with dance and music community members who have been directly affected by natural disasters. If you are one of those affected, please fill out this form to be included in the list.
June 2025 Song of the Month
Cate Clifford introduces “The Old Songs,” a poem by Bob Copper set to music by Peter Bellamy. Cate includes both Peter’s recording and her own version of the lyrics, slightly altered to include singers of all genders.
The Flying Shoes Radio Hour Episode 2: Wild Asparagus
This second episode of the Flying Shoes Radio Hour features Wild Asparagus, an influential dance band based in Western Massachusetts, and named for a feral crop in the Connecticut River Valley. Listen and subscribe!
Welcome, New Board Members!
We’re excited to welcome the newest members of our governing board. Many thanks to the outgoing board members for their years of service! Learn more about the board and our bylaws.