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
A website of contra dances where you can enter your zip code and it will list dances close by. You can also look at the full list of dances.]
From Jeff Kaufman
Gender Free Contra Facebook Group
This Facebook group is for enthusiasts of Larks and Ravens terminology. However, other ways of welcoming LGBTQIA dancers into contra and other folk dances are also on topic. The group offers resources, discussion, and strategy.
Rising Contra Dance Callers’ Collective Facebook Group
This Facebook group is an online community of callers who support each other in a wide range of caller topics.
Shared Weight: Contra Callers Discussion List
This mailing list (email group) welcomes contra dance callers and people who are interested in learning about calling for contra dances. List members ask/answer questions, discuss issues that come up for them, and share helpful resources. There are both new and experienced callers from throughout North America and beyond. Join the discussion!
Antony’s collection includes over 21,000 dances from a wide range of traditions.
From Antony Heywood
This database includes many different styles of dance searchable by dance title, author, publication, and recording. It does not include the actual dance instructions or accompanying music notation.
Hugh Stewart
This online bibliography is Neil Kelley’s compendium of where to find dance tunes and descriptions.
Thanks to the Massachusetts Cultural Council for their generous support.