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

Fall 2025 Appeal for Support—please give by December 31!

Together we can make a real difference in the lives of those who are nurturing the living traditions we love.

All donors are entered automatically in a drawing for fabulous prizes!

Donate now Drawing info

Photo by Laura Lewis, Cleveland Butterfly Twirl, CDSS Community Grant recipient.

What’s New

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.
Media Scholarship for Camp This Summer
Thinking of coming to Cascade of Music & Dance or Family Week at Agassiz Village? Want to help us document the week? A media scholarship is available for one photographer at these camps this summer. (You don’t need to be a professional or have fancy equipment!) Find more info and apply here!
From the Mic Episode 31: Ang DeCarlis
Mary Wesley’s guest for episode 31 of From the Mic is Ang DeCarlis, who has been calling contras since 2012. Whether onstage at a dance or as a studio art instructor, Ang finds a lot of joy in the process of clear and careful teaching. Their often-melodic calling style always responds to and resonates with the music.
May 2025 Song of the Month
David Jones introduces the cowboy tune “Clayton Boone,” about a wealthy man whose lady leaves him for the poor but handsome Davy.
Spring/Summer 2025 CDSS News
The latest issue of the CDSS News is out now! Read about celebrating Chuck Ward’s legacy with music workshops at Fall Frolick, training new dance callers in California, our new podcast(!), and more!
April 2025 Song of the Month
Phil Cooper introduces “Goin’ ’Cross the Mountain,” about a Union soldier volunteer leaving his home to join the army. It shows youthful enthusiasm (before he’s going to be confronted with harsh reality).