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.

Musicians silhouetted against a sunset by the lakeside

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

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.
Work with us!
CDSS has two year-round positions open! Might you or someone you know be the perfect fit? Find more info here, and please help spread the word to folks who may be interested.