In this resource, Thomas describes what is needed from musicians for a one-off barn dance. This is a great resource for musicians who are only getting together once for a dance event.
From Thomas Green
In this resource, Thomas describes what is needed from musicians for a one-off barn dance. This is a great resource for musicians who are only getting together once for a dance event.
From Thomas Green
Some of the key considerations when playing for old time dances (various dance styles over the evening).
From Vivian and Phil Williams
Andrew VanNorstand on Playing for Contra Dances
In this six-part video series, Andrew talks about the difference between playing for a concert and playing for a dance, matching tunes with dances, working with callers, and more.
From Dennis Merritt
Playing for Contras: The Basics
This three-page PDF provides the basics needed to understand how contra dance music fits the dance.
From CDSS
In this blog post, Jeff explores how to choose shoes for dancing.
From Jeff Kaufman
English Country Dance and Its American Cousin
ECD and contra dance share some of the same historical roots. This article by describes those roots and how the two styles have changed over time.
From Alan Winston
Contra Syncretist Flourish Videos
A video archive of over 100 video showing how to do various contra dance flourishes.
From Contra Syncretist
Introducing a Beginner to Contra Dancing
An article published in the CDS Boston Center newsletter discussing the fine art of teaching a beginners session at a contra dance.
From Chris Weiler
Tips on Being a Better Contra Dancer
A number of tips exploring a wide range of aspects in how to become a better contra dancer.
From Cary Ravitz
10 Tips for Contra Dancing With Kids
Miriam reflects on how dancers can be more supportive of children and youth within the contra dance context. Some helpful considerations for dancing with children. While the context of the article is contra dancing, the ideas also apply to many other forms of dance.
From Miriam Axel-Lute