TradSound is a listserv (email group) that exists to share information, experiences, techniques about people using intelligence, acoustics and audio equipment to optimally reinforce voices and instruments at community trad music events including dances, concerts and festivals. Most of our group members are audio techs, though we also welcome interested musicians, singers, callers, organizers, dancers and listeners. TradSound is a great way to talk to those passionate about sound at trad events. Join the discussion! Special Note: As a member of the group, you can also search the extensive list archives.
In this post, Jeff explores some of his thinking behind musician booking for the BIDA dance series. Community discussion follows.
From Jeff Kaufman
Example of a performer info sheet that can be sent to people hired for a dance to clarify any confusion beforehand!
From Nancy Turner, Queen City Contra, Puttin’ On The Dance, 2011
Hiring Dance Camp Staff—Guidelines For Organizers
An excellent set of guidelines and tips from Lisa Greenleaf on hiring staff for a weekend or week, diving into all aspects of hiring and scheduling.
From the CDSS News
This article by Carol Ormond gives excellent tips on how organizers can create a great gig experience for a caller. Much of the advice applies to other hired staff as well.
From the CDSS News
An extensive survey of approximately 400 contra dance callers throughout North America and beyond. Interesting and useful information for organizers and callers alike
From CDSS, 2013
This resource outlines some basic considerations and tips for organizers who are hiring callers and bands.
From CDSS
An example of family dance schedule including a potluck and sound check that works for the long-standing BIDA family dance which occurs before the regular evening dance
From Jeff Kaufman
Dancing in (Children/Young Adult) Literature: A Partial Bibliography
Looking for a children’s book related to traditional dance and music? This bibliography focuses on children’s & young adult books that connect to traditional, participatory, social dance & music. Belfast Flying Shoes funded the compilation with additional support from the Maine Arts Commission.
From Chrissy Fowler
Belfast Flying Shoes Caller Information Sheet
An example of a sheet given to callers before a dance to prepare them for what is expected of them.
From Chrissy Fowler/Belfast Flying Shoes
Thanks to the Massachusetts Cultural Council for their generous support.