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
Giving to CDSS is a vote for joy and positivity.
Donate to our spring appeal today
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Help us reach our goal of 100 donors!
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Total raised so far towards our goal of $40,000!
What’s New
- February 2024 Song of the Month
Derek Piotr presents “I Wonder When I Shall Be Married.” The best-known version is by the Ritchie family of Viper, Kentucky, but writer Roxana Robinson sings it to a different tune, learned from her family in Pine Mountain, KY.
- Job Opportunities at CDSS
We are in search of a new Director of Development and several camp staff for summer 2024. Please check the Jobs page for details on the positions and how to apply.
- From the Mic Episode 20: Susan Kevra
Mary’s guest this month on From the Mic is Susan Kevra, a dance caller, musician, and singer who makes her home in Nashville, Tennessee. Dancers on both sides of the Atlantic appreciate her diverse repertoire of singing squares, Western patter calls, contras, and English country dances. Susan is noted for her warmth, clear teaching, and lovely voice.
- January 2024 Song of the Month
Andrew Calhoun plays and sings “The Hills of Tandragee,” a traditional ballad from Northern Ireland. The song was collected by James Carmichael of Ballymena, Ulster and printed in Sam Henry’s Songs of the People.
- Pack & Wrap Session with Karen Axelrod and Sarah-Hadley Yakir
We’re delighted to welcome Karen Axelrod (piano) and Sarah-Hadley Yakir (violin) to CDSS for the second episode of the Pack & Wrap Sessions! They talk about how they met and what they take to every gig and play two English country dance tunes. Help support CDSS programs (including these videos!) by donating to our year-end appeal.
- Winter 2023 CDSS News
Cozy up with the Winter 2023 issue of CDSS News! Read about our new Strategic Plan and other updates from the Board; learn more about Sharon Green, our 2024 Lifetime Contribution Award recipient; take inspiration from the Dancing Bears of Alaska; and much more.
In our history, CDSS has…
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published 114 hours of podcasts
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bestowed 31 Lifetime Contribution Awards
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sold well over 50,000 morris bells
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fostered 109 years of tradition
In the past year, CDSS has…
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published over 600 calendar events
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awarded 34 grants for local communities and special projects
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added over 60 repertoire resources for callers
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hosted over 1,093 campers
Upcoming Community Events