The Hatchlings—Developing Callers in St. Louis
Martha Edwards describes a model for developing callers that she feels will work in many different community contexts.
From the CDSS News
The Hatchlings—Developing Callers in St. Louis
Martha Edwards describes a model for developing callers that she feels will work in many different community contexts.
From the CDSS News
Dela Murphy describes Portland, Maine’s approach to training and mentoring new callers, including how they source funding for that work.
From the CDSS News
Training New Contra Callers in Portland, ME
Dugan Murphy describes Portland, Maine’s experience in training new contra callers.
From the CDSS News
Tom’s Contra Page – Choreography
Tom Lehmann’s thoughts on composing contra dances.
Cary Ravitz’s Rules on Choreography
Cary Ravitz provides a list of the rules he follows when writing a dance.
Positional Calling Workshop for Contra Dance Callers
Louise Siddons’s introductory workshop to help contra callers discover how the calling skills they have already cultivated can be enhanced by positional thinking, teaching, and calling. It also teaches how to use those skills to create a more welcoming, inclusive atmosphere at dances.
From Friends of Cecil Sharp House
In these three resources, John provides tips on good technique for swinging, allemands, connection, and more. There is a focus on how to improve dancing skills and prevent injuries.
From John Sweeney
Watch a contra dance beginner lesson in action (YouTube video). These videos are both helpful to callers wanting to learn how to teach beginners AND to beginners wanting to learn how to contra dance.
From Jim Crawford
Contra Dance Introductory Session
Watch a video of George Marshall teaching an introductory session before an evening contra begins.
From Ray Sebold
Country Dance & Contra Dance Formations
This website provides images and sample dances for over 100 different formations. Check it out as one way to move beyond longways sets and squares!
From John Sweeney