Photo by Armelle Lorcy, ContraQuebec Spring Buds.

Thank you for making our spring appeal a success!

It’s not too late to donate—just note “spring appeal” on your online or mailed donation, send by June 14, and we will count it toward this effort!

Donate now

Number of donors toward our goal of 100:
Total raised so far toward our goal of $40,000:

Photo by Armelle Lorcy, ContraQuebec Spring Buds.

Campers singing outdoors in colorful outfits

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

June 2025 Song of the Month
Cate Clifford introduces “The Old Songs,” a poem by Bob Copper set to music by Peter Bellamy. Cate includes both Peter’s recording and her own version of the lyrics, slightly altered to include singers of all genders.
The Flying Shoes Radio Hour Episode 2: Wild Asparagus
This second episode of the Flying Shoes Radio Hour features Wild Asparagus, an influential dance band based in Western Massachusetts, and named for a feral crop in the Connecticut River Valley. Listen and subscribe!
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.