
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

Singing, dancing, and making music together is important work.
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Number of donors toward our goal of 100:
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Total raised so far toward our goal of $40,000:
Photo by Armelle Lorcy, ContraQuebec Spring Buds.
What’s New
Annual Report Now Available
The 2022 CDSS Annual Report is now available! Take a look back at our programs and financials.
From the Mic Episode 17: Susan Petrick
In this episode of From the Mic, we head to northern California for a conversation with the wonderful Susan Petrick. An avid dancer for many years, Susan started calling for contra dances in 2000 and teaching couple dances, including waltz, cross-step waltz, and hambo, shortly thereafter. She is known for her clear teaching, efficient guidance, and expert pacing, making even complex dances accessible to all.
October 2023 Song of the Month
Our song for October is “Seal Lullaby,” with lyrics from a poem by Rudyard Kipling and music by Cindy Mangsen.
Generational Transition Survey
Are you 18-44 years old? Do you participate in folk music or dance? Take our survey!
Fall 2023 CDSS News
The Fall 2023 CDSS News is now available! Hear how Hoggetowne Fancy keeps ECD music fresh in Florida; play a tune in remembrance of Rosemary Lach; dance online with Symmetry ECD; learn how the CDSS Educators Task Group is bringing dance, music, and song to the next generation; and much more.
John Dexter Leaves a Legacy of Joy
John Dexter—morris dancer, musician, teacher, fearless leader and guiding light of New York City’s Bouwerie Boys—passed quietly from this world in May 2023, leaving behind a 50-year legacy of incalculable breadth. Thank you, John! Thank you for the legacy of your years of dancing, playing, and teaching, and for your generous legacy gift, which will help CDSS to flourish this year and well into the future. Read more about John and his gift to CDSS.
In our history, CDSS has…
fostered 110 years of tradition
published 121 hours of podcasts
bestowed 34 Lifetime Contribution Awards
sold well over 50,000 morris bells
In the past year, CDSS has…
published over 700 calendar events
awarded 20 grants for local communities and special projects
added 7 resources for callers and organizers
hosted over 1,174 campers
Upcoming Community Events