
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
2026 Lifetime Contribution Award RecipientWe are delighted to announce that David Millstone of Lebanon, NH, is the recipient of the 2026 CDSS Lifetime Contribution Award. David is a dancer, caller, teacher, historian, and leader specializing in contra dance, New England squares, and English country dance.
Submit a Song of the Month!We’re excited to announce that our long-running song sharing archive is now accepting submissions! Have a favorite song that works at pub sings, song circles, and other community singing events? Share it here!
December 2025 Song of the MonthTim Edwards introduces the Child ballad “James Harris,” also known as “The Demon Lover” or “The House Carpenter.” He writes: “The story of the lost love reappearing after the traditional 7 years in demonic form captivated me.”
From the Mic Episode 32: Lindsey DonoFrom the Mic is back! This episode features Lindsey Dono. Lindsey is a mainstay on the national contra circuit, and has been on staff at camps, weeks, and festivals for over a decade. She is known for her precise teaching and welcoming stage presence.
November 2025 Song of the MonthBob Bovee introduces “Back to My Wyoming Home.” Bob says that it’s an old-time song, not an “authentic” cowboy song, but it evokes the mood of a cowboy singing by a campfire.
2025 Supporter Thanks Concert ReplayThank you for all your support this year! Please enjoy this concert with Supertrad, featuring Stuntology with Sam Bartlett.
In our history, CDSS has…
published 121 hours of podcasts
fostered 110 years of tradition
sold well over 50,000 morris bells
bestowed 34 Lifetime Contribution Awards
In the past year, CDSS has…
awarded 20 grants for local communities and special projects
published over 700 calendar events
hosted over 1,174 campers
added 7 resources for callers and organizers


Find an Event
Thanks to the Massachusetts Cultural Council for their generous support.
Isaac Banner
Seth Tepfer
Christa Torrens
Ellie Shogren
Sharon Green
Dilip Sequeira