What’s New

• February 2025 Song of the Month

  Cindy Kallet introduces “The Old Figurehead Carver,” with music by Dick Swain from a poem by Hiram Cody. In the song, the speaker reminisces about his favorite project: a figurehead for the clipper ship Marco Polo.

• From the Mic Episode 29: The Amidons

  In episode 29 of From the Mic, host Mary Wesley speaks with Peter and Mary Alice Amidon. The Amidons have been immersed in traditional dance and song since 1975.

• Catch up from our most recent Web Chat

  Succession Planning for Dance Organizations
  Thursday, December 5, 2024

  We held a panel discussion in which dance organizers shared their experiences with leadership and volunteer changes in their local groups. View the slides, video, and transcript.

• January 2025 Song of the Month

  Jeff Gillett introduces “The Unquiet Grave,” Child ballad number 78. In most versions, the dead lover is male and there is a suggestion of violent death as he “lies slain.” This version has a female lover who is simply dead and buried.

• Save the Dates for the 2025 LCA Celebrations!

  Save the dates for the celebrations of our 2025 CDSS Lifetime Contribution Award winners:

  • John Roberts
    May 10, 2025, Schenectady, NY

  • David Surette
    October 19, 2025, Concord, NH

  • Tony Parkes
    November 22, 2025, Concord, MA

• December 2024 Song of the Month

  Pete Coe helps us get ready to “Bring the New Year In.” The song carries on the English tradition of mummers’ plays, which have been performed at Christmas since the 17th century.