https://simplecast.com From the Mic Host Mary Wesley takes you behind the caller's mic to explore perspectives from the people who choose to stand in that curious place between the band and a roomful of dancers. Featuring conversations with callers of American social dance forms (contras, community dances, trad squares). Why do they do it? How did they learn? What is their role, on stage and off, in shaping our dance communities? en Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:14:31 +0000 Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:14:42 +0000 https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com From the Mic https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/f9cc4021-1ff0-4721-b799-3bbf62e1d04d/073dd0cc-2a76-45f9-a111-48e0d361019a/3000x3000/fromthemic.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com episodic Host Mary Wesley takes you behind the caller's mic to explore perspectives from the people who choose to stand in that curious place between the band and a roomful of dancers. Featuring conversations with callers of American social dance forms (contras, community dances, trad squares). Why do they do it? How did they learn? What is their role, on stage and off, in shaping our dance communities? Mary Wesley, CDSS false https://feeds.simplecast.com/6IDwBNW2 calling, contra dance, square dance, social dance Country Dance & Song Soceity ben@cdss.org e2cdcc2c-1377-4438-b159-fb6363c4d3f2 Episode 33 - Bill Olson Click to view a full transcript of the episode

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

  • Bill calling his contra dance Weeks on the Road at the Ralph Page Dance Legacy Weekend in Durham, NH in 2020
  • Bill calling the singing square dance On the Trail of the Lonesome Pine at the Ralph Page Dance Legacy Weekend in Durham, NH in 2020

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:14:31 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Bill Olson, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-33-bill-olson-yr5zUUTw Click to view a full transcript of the episode

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

  • Bill calling his contra dance Weeks on the Road at the Ralph Page Dance Legacy Weekend in Durham, NH in 2020
  • Bill calling the singing square dance On the Trail of the Lonesome Pine at the Ralph Page Dance Legacy Weekend in Durham, NH in 2020

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 33 - Bill Olson Bill Olson, Mary Wesley 01:33:10 This episode, Mary talks with Bill Olson, a longtime fixture in the traditional music and dance community. Bill's journey into this world began in college, when he first discovered the rich tapestry of bluegrass, old-time, and contra dancing. What started as a casual interest soon blossomed into a lifelong passion where he developed a unique style that prioritizes connection with the dancers. In their conversation, Bill shares insights into his evolution as a performer, the joys and challenges of reviving the singing square dance tradition, and how his self-described introverted nature has been transformed by his love for this community. It's a fascinating look into the mind of someone who has dedicated himself to keeping these traditions alive in Maine, and everywhere. This episode, Mary talks with Bill Olson, a longtime fixture in the traditional music and dance community. Bill's journey into this world began in college, when he first discovered the rich tapestry of bluegrass, old-time, and contra dancing. What started as a casual interest soon blossomed into a lifelong passion where he developed a unique style that prioritizes connection with the dancers. In their conversation, Bill shares insights into his evolution as a performer, the joys and challenges of reviving the singing square dance tradition, and how his self-described introverted nature has been transformed by his love for this community. It's a fascinating look into the mind of someone who has dedicated himself to keeping these traditions alive in Maine, and everywhere. dance, dance calling, folk music, contra dance, folk dance false full 33 c2df31cf-68c9-455d-b1e1-54efdc961e52 Episode 32 - Lindsey Dono Click here for the episode transcript

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other things!

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:35:52 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Lindsey Dono, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-32-lindsey-dono-o8K8DH8Y Click here for the episode transcript

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other things!

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 32 - Lindsey Dono Lindsey Dono, Mary Wesley 01:36:53 This week, we hear from Washington-based caller Lindsey Dono, a mainstay on the national contra circuit, staffing camps, weeks, and festivals for over a decade. The discussion ranges from Lindsey's programming of narrative arcs in her calling to building inclusive, intergenerational folk communities. Enjoy! This week, we hear from Washington-based caller Lindsey Dono, a mainstay on the national contra circuit, staffing camps, weeks, and festivals for over a decade. The discussion ranges from Lindsey's programming of narrative arcs in her calling to building inclusive, intergenerational folk communities. Enjoy! dance calling, folk music, contra dance, folk dance false full 32 0d1ea6ec-1c9b-41cf-a7b8-a61f8bfd68e7 Episode 31 - Ang DeCarlis Click here for the episode transcript

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other things!

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Wed, 7 May 2025 16:06:12 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Ang DeCarlis, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-31-ang-decarlis-P3_2Z4To Click here for the episode transcript

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other things!

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 31 - Ang DeCarlis Ang DeCarlis, Mary Wesley 01:39:02 Ang has been calling contras since 2012. Whether onstage at a dance or as a studio art instructor, they find a lot of joy in the process of clear and careful teaching. In our interview we hear about Ang’s full circle journey dancing with the GODS in Florida, discovering a wider community of contra dancers and callers in Philadelphia, serving on the board in the early days of BIDA, the Boston Intergenerational Dance Advocates, and their return to their lush, green homeland outside Gainesville. While nurturing their Florida roots and local dance communities, Ang is also keeping active ties with the larger dance community, traveling to tour and call at dance weekends. We’ll also hear about some of Ang’s dance compositions and take some fun side quests into embodied practices and urban line dancing! Enjoy! Ang has been calling contras since 2012. Whether onstage at a dance or as a studio art instructor, they find a lot of joy in the process of clear and careful teaching. In our interview we hear about Ang’s full circle journey dancing with the GODS in Florida, discovering a wider community of contra dancers and callers in Philadelphia, serving on the board in the early days of BIDA, the Boston Intergenerational Dance Advocates, and their return to their lush, green homeland outside Gainesville. While nurturing their Florida roots and local dance communities, Ang is also keeping active ties with the larger dance community, traveling to tour and call at dance weekends. We’ll also hear about some of Ang’s dance compositions and take some fun side quests into embodied practices and urban line dancing! Enjoy! dance calling, contra dance, folk dance false full 31 cd0629a1-6e27-4835-b906-6417fb4b62b9 Episode 30 - Jeremy Korr Click here to download the transcript

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Sat, 8 Mar 2025 01:51:56 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Jeremy Korr, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-30-jeremy-korr-z_xaWI0s Click here to download the transcript

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 30 - Jeremy Korr Jeremy Korr, Mary Wesley 01:41:17 Jeremy Korr is a bicoastal caller, a second-generation dancer and dance leader, and has been calling children's and family dances and international folk dances since 1993 and contras and squares since 2003. He has called at festivals, camps, dance weekends, and other events in 20 states and provinces from California to Alaska to Maine to Florida. He has choreographed a handful of contra dances, but in his calling he mostly draws on the rich bounty of modern dance compositions and venerable traditional dances. Since 2014, Jeremy has served on the national steering committee for Pourparler, the national conference for community dance leaders and school teachers. Get ready to dive in to this excellent discussion of calling passion! Jeremy Korr is a bicoastal caller, a second-generation dancer and dance leader, and has been calling children's and family dances and international folk dances since 1993 and contras and squares since 2003. He has called at festivals, camps, dance weekends, and other events in 20 states and provinces from California to Alaska to Maine to Florida. He has choreographed a handful of contra dances, but in his calling he mostly draws on the rich bounty of modern dance compositions and venerable traditional dances. Since 2014, Jeremy has served on the national steering committee for Pourparler, the national conference for community dance leaders and school teachers. Get ready to dive in to this excellent discussion of calling passion! dance calling, folk music, contra dance, folk dance false full 30 79344aa6-a25e-449f-8616-a25467f47940 Episode 29 - The Amidons See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other links

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 2 Jan 2025 17:42:18 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Peter Amidon, Marry Alice Amidon, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-29-the-amidons-bMZuidgA See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other links

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 29 - The Amidons Peter Amidon, Marry Alice Amidon, Mary Wesley 01:27:04 This episode, Mary talks with Peter and Mary Alice Amidon, in their Brattleboro Vermont living room. They talk about their history becoming involved with the folk music and dance scene in New England and going on to become some of the most celebrated dance leaders and educators, especially for those teaching children and community dance. This episode, Mary talks with Peter and Mary Alice Amidon, in their Brattleboro Vermont living room. They talk about their history becoming involved with the folk music and dance scene in New England and going on to become some of the most celebrated dance leaders and educators, especially for those teaching children and community dance. dance calling, family dance, contra dance, folk dance, community dance false full 29 2b7d5271-7530-4e57-b3e3-308912373f2a Episode 28 - David Kaynor See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

More about the Granges

  • The Montague Grange is no longer active as a Grange, but the Grange Hall, now know as the Montague Common Hall, is still an active community hub now lovingly maintained by the Friends of the Montague Common Hall, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. They host social dances and music in the space along with many other events. The organization is currently fundraising for future improvements to the building.
  • The Guiding Star Grange in Greenfield, MA celebrated 150 years in 2023! The Grange membership, which still includes many dancers and musicians connected to the contra dance community, has worked to broaden the mission of the Grange to encompass many facets of community enrichment (including dance!)
  • The Capitol City Grange in Montpelier, VT is also still active as a Grange and still hosts regular contra dances on first, third, and fifth Saturdays of each month, along with many other community events and activities.

More about David

  • David's obituary, June 1, 2021
  • Before David's passing in 2021 The Country Dance and Song Society (CDSS) presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The presentation happened over zoom and the recording is still available.
  • With help from many, many contributors, Sue Songer has assembled a wonderful book about David called "David Kaynor: Living Music and Dance," which also includes many of his musical compositions as well as writings about dance and dance calling.
  • Midnight in Montague - Betsy Branch and David recorded a wonderful album INSIDE the Montague Grange Hall called "Midnight in Montague." Betsy is working on getting the album up on Bandcamp and also having it reprinted for purchase on CD. Stay tuned here for more info.

Thanks to Vermont Folklife

We extend a special thanks to Vermont Folklife, a statewide cultural research and education nonprofit that loaned Mary the equipment to make this recording with David and then placed a copy of the recording in their Archive so the file wouldn't become lost in the ether of Mary's personal, digital files. (Fun fact: Mary now serves as the Director of Education and Media at Vermont Folklife!)

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 8 Nov 2024 21:44:01 +0000 ben@cdss.org (David Kaynor, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-28-david-kaynor-NpFJaKa0 See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

More about the Granges

  • The Montague Grange is no longer active as a Grange, but the Grange Hall, now know as the Montague Common Hall, is still an active community hub now lovingly maintained by the Friends of the Montague Common Hall, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. They host social dances and music in the space along with many other events. The organization is currently fundraising for future improvements to the building.
  • The Guiding Star Grange in Greenfield, MA celebrated 150 years in 2023! The Grange membership, which still includes many dancers and musicians connected to the contra dance community, has worked to broaden the mission of the Grange to encompass many facets of community enrichment (including dance!)
  • The Capitol City Grange in Montpelier, VT is also still active as a Grange and still hosts regular contra dances on first, third, and fifth Saturdays of each month, along with many other community events and activities.

More about David

  • David's obituary, June 1, 2021
  • Before David's passing in 2021 The Country Dance and Song Society (CDSS) presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The presentation happened over zoom and the recording is still available.
  • With help from many, many contributors, Sue Songer has assembled a wonderful book about David called "David Kaynor: Living Music and Dance," which also includes many of his musical compositions as well as writings about dance and dance calling.
  • Midnight in Montague - Betsy Branch and David recorded a wonderful album INSIDE the Montague Grange Hall called "Midnight in Montague." Betsy is working on getting the album up on Bandcamp and also having it reprinted for purchase on CD. Stay tuned here for more info.

Thanks to Vermont Folklife

We extend a special thanks to Vermont Folklife, a statewide cultural research and education nonprofit that loaned Mary the equipment to make this recording with David and then placed a copy of the recording in their Archive so the file wouldn't become lost in the ether of Mary's personal, digital files. (Fun fact: Mary now serves as the Director of Education and Media at Vermont Folklife!)

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 28 - David Kaynor David Kaynor, Mary Wesley 01:10:47 We have a special episode for you this month, From the Mic listeners! Mary shares an interview she recorded with David Kaynor of Montague, MA in 2011, ten years before his passing. Rather than focusing on calling, this interview is about the relationship between contra dancers and the Grange, the social organization connected to some of the places David organized dances near his home in western Massachusetts. Dancers and Grangers represented two hugely important communities and touchstones in David’s life; he was deeply involved with making contra dancing happen at both the Guiding Star Grange and the Montague Grange in Massachusetts. When Montpelier contra dancers rallied to save the best dance floor in town (the grange hall), they relied on the help and encouragement of David. Mary, an enthusiastic 20-something with a new interest in oral history and a borrowed recorder, then asked him for an interview that you are about to listen to! We have a special episode for you this month, From the Mic listeners! Mary shares an interview she recorded with David Kaynor of Montague, MA in 2011, ten years before his passing. Rather than focusing on calling, this interview is about the relationship between contra dancers and the Grange, the social organization connected to some of the places David organized dances near his home in western Massachusetts. Dancers and Grangers represented two hugely important communities and touchstones in David’s life; he was deeply involved with making contra dancing happen at both the Guiding Star Grange and the Montague Grange in Massachusetts. When Montpelier contra dancers rallied to save the best dance floor in town (the grange hall), they relied on the help and encouragement of David. Mary, an enthusiastic 20-something with a new interest in oral history and a borrowed recorder, then asked him for an interview that you are about to listen to! dance, dance calling, grange, contra dance false full 28 af2894fe-a02d-4843-8c35-63e5196fd146 Episode 27 - Diane Silver See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other links:

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Mon, 30 Sep 2024 20:28:21 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Diane Silver, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-27-diane-silver-zhQyrOQx See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other links:

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 27 - Diane Silver Diane Silver, Mary Wesley 01:44:02 Check out this month’s interview with caller Diane Silver! Hailing from Asheville, NC, Diane has been a die-hard contra dancer, swing dancer, and flat-footer for nearly 30 years. With a penchant for hot modern contras and everyone-active squares, she loves sharing high-energy dancing that allows everyone to “play” with the band. Diane values calling for beginners and community dances, to share the joy of dancing and to help bring new dancers into the fold, and she also loves calling for dance camps, weekends and festivals, where the occasional advanced dance can challenge long-time experts. Check out this month’s interview with caller Diane Silver! Hailing from Asheville, NC, Diane has been a die-hard contra dancer, swing dancer, and flat-footer for nearly 30 years. With a penchant for hot modern contras and everyone-active squares, she loves sharing high-energy dancing that allows everyone to “play” with the band. Diane values calling for beginners and community dances, to share the joy of dancing and to help bring new dancers into the fold, and she also loves calling for dance camps, weekends and festivals, where the occasional advanced dance can challenge long-time experts. dance calling, contra, folk dancing, contra dance false full 27 c1bae7f1-6d0b-4363-a449-4e975d146c7d Episode 26 - George Marshall See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Show Notes

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 8 Aug 2024 20:17:17 +0000 ben@cdss.org (George Marshall, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-26-george-marshall-k4Tdmezm See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Show Notes

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 26 - George Marshall George Marshall, Mary Wesley 01:38:02 This month, Mary interview the renowned George Marshall, known for his expertise in teaching and calling New England-style contra dances, which he has collected from across the country. He is praised for his ability to match music with dance and for his clear and engaging teaching style. As a talented musician, George plays the concertina and bodhrán, and has recorded on eight albums including the bands Swallowtail and Wild Asparagus. He also teaches a variety of couples dances, including Lindy/swing, Scandinavian, Cajun, and Zydeco. This month, Mary interview the renowned George Marshall, known for his expertise in teaching and calling New England-style contra dances, which he has collected from across the country. He is praised for his ability to match music with dance and for his clear and engaging teaching style. As a talented musician, George plays the concertina and bodhrán, and has recorded on eight albums including the bands Swallowtail and Wild Asparagus. He also teaches a variety of couples dances, including Lindy/swing, Scandinavian, Cajun, and Zydeco. dance calling, folk music, contra dance, folk dance false full 26 e1943357-f85d-4b1f-8421-ee97a2fe252a Episode 25 - Maia McCormick See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other links:

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Mon, 8 Jul 2024 20:12:46 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Maia McCormick, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-25-maia-mccormick-tilw4Ecv See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other links:

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 25 - Maia McCormick Maia McCormick, Mary Wesley 01:35:52 Enjoy this month’s conversation with Maia McCormick, a contradance caller and choreographer based in New York City. Maia has called at festivals, weekends, and dance camps from coast to coast. As a choreographer, she strives to write dances that are fresh, yet idiomatic; as a caller, she is passionate about keeping the dance floor safe, comfortable, and connective. Enjoy this month’s conversation with Maia McCormick, a contradance caller and choreographer based in New York City. Maia has called at festivals, weekends, and dance camps from coast to coast. As a choreographer, she strives to write dances that are fresh, yet idiomatic; as a caller, she is passionate about keeping the dance floor safe, comfortable, and connective. dance calling, contra dance, contra coreography, folk dance false full 25 488e54e1-e6de-474b-8f4b-79741387119b Episode 24 - Rick Mohr See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other links:

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 23 May 2024 18:57:13 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Rick Mohr, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-24-rick-mohr-f4rkXvdF See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other links:

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 24 - Rick Mohr Rick Mohr, Mary Wesley 01:41:02 Rick Mohr's calling and choreography have delighted dancers for decades, from local barn dances to dance weeks and weekends across North America. Many of Rick's contra dances are coast-to-coast favorites, which he attributes to persistence in reworking an idea (for days or years) until any imperfections are smoothed out. In the wider world of traditional music and dance Rick also plays fiddle for contra dances, leads an open band, chorus songs, writes songs and fiddle tunes, leads, plays, and choreographs for Morris and rapper, and programs dance weeks. Enjoy! Rick Mohr's calling and choreography have delighted dancers for decades, from local barn dances to dance weeks and weekends across North America. Many of Rick's contra dances are coast-to-coast favorites, which he attributes to persistence in reworking an idea (for days or years) until any imperfections are smoothed out. In the wider world of traditional music and dance Rick also plays fiddle for contra dances, leads an open band, chorus songs, writes songs and fiddle tunes, leads, plays, and choreographs for Morris and rapper, and programs dance weeks. Enjoy! dance calling, contra dance, folk dance false full 24 d9e096f4-b015-4c02-812d-931d5458e741 Episode 23 - Cis Hinkle See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 5 Apr 2024 19:19:31 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Cis Hinkle, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-23-cis-hinkle-A9BJqtz8 See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 23 - Cis Hinkle Cis Hinkle, Mary Wesley 01:21:15 Cis Hinkle has delighted contra and square dancers since 1985 with her skilled teaching, welcoming manner, playful enthusiasm and masterful selection of dances. She is in great demand at music and dance festivals all over the U.S., England and Denmark. She’s also the current president of Atlanta’s Chattahoochee Contra Dancers. In this interview Cis takes us back to the first time she stumbled into a contra dance in her native Atlanta, shares how she overcame stage fright and began calling all over the world, and brings us right up to her most recent pursuit, learning to call modern western squares! Cis Hinkle has delighted contra and square dancers since 1985 with her skilled teaching, welcoming manner, playful enthusiasm and masterful selection of dances. She is in great demand at music and dance festivals all over the U.S., England and Denmark. She’s also the current president of Atlanta’s Chattahoochee Contra Dancers. In this interview Cis takes us back to the first time she stumbled into a contra dance in her native Atlanta, shares how she overcame stage fright and began calling all over the world, and brings us right up to her most recent pursuit, learning to call modern western squares! dance calling, contra dance, folk dance false full 23 5b012af3-13d7-427f-b1a7-925f4065d153 Episode 22 - David Millstone See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More from David

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 1 Mar 2024 19:37:00 +0000 ben@cdss.org (David Millstone) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-22-david-millstone-_NmwaY_W See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More from David

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 22 - David Millstone David Millstone 01:40:15 David Millstone started contra dancing with Dudley Laufman in the early 1970s and has been calling dances for forty-five years: contras old and new, squares from different regional traditions, English country dances, and plenty of family friendly events. He’s been on staff at dance weekends, festivals and weeklong camps from Alaska and Hawaii, Maine to Florida, as well as in nine countries in Europe. As a dance historian, he's published, spoken, produced videos and created websites that celebrate different aspects of country dance and music. He also served for 12 years, including 6 as president, on the governing board of CDSS. Enjoy this fascinating conversation about all things calling! David Millstone started contra dancing with Dudley Laufman in the early 1970s and has been calling dances for forty-five years: contras old and new, squares from different regional traditions, English country dances, and plenty of family friendly events. He’s been on staff at dance weekends, festivals and weeklong camps from Alaska and Hawaii, Maine to Florida, as well as in nine countries in Europe. As a dance historian, he's published, spoken, produced videos and created websites that celebrate different aspects of country dance and music. He also served for 12 years, including 6 as president, on the governing board of CDSS. Enjoy this fascinating conversation about all things calling! dance calling, calling, contra dance, folk dance false full 22 859cf81e-81e9-4e0d-b2dc-495343405459 Episode 21 - Penn Fix See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 9 Feb 2024 18:30:57 +0000 ben@cdss.org (penn fix, mary wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-21-penn-fix-oQuskwMK See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 21 - Penn Fix penn fix, mary wesley 01:27:40 Penn Fix began dancing in the 70s in the Boston and Monadnock Valley areas, becoming a caller when he returned to his home in Spokeane, WA and filling the void that existed at that time. He’s the founder of a long-standing weekly dance, as well as co-founder of the Lady of the Lake dance damp. Serving on a number of boards, he’s seeped in the questions of how to make dancing welcoming and accessible, both as an organizer and a caller. Listen to this month’s conversation about all of that and more! Penn Fix began dancing in the 70s in the Boston and Monadnock Valley areas, becoming a caller when he returned to his home in Spokeane, WA and filling the void that existed at that time. He’s the founder of a long-standing weekly dance, as well as co-founder of the Lady of the Lake dance damp. Serving on a number of boards, he’s seeped in the questions of how to make dancing welcoming and accessible, both as an organizer and a caller. Listen to this month’s conversation about all of that and more! dance calling, contra, contra dance, folk dance false full 21 2b0c22e1-9e84-4385-a8ee-52d1cdd12429 Episode 20 - Susan Kevra See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Tue, 9 Jan 2024 22:23:49 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Country Dance & Song Soceity) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-20-susan-kevra-kpStkbl3 See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 20 - Susan Kevra Country Dance & Song Soceity 01:27:30 Mary's guest this month is Susan Kevra, a dance caller, musician, and singer who makes her home in Nashville, Tennessee. Dancers on both sides of the Atlantic appreciate her diverse repertoire of singing squares, Western patter calls, contras, and English Country dances. She has also choreographed a number of well-loved contra and square dances. Susan has taught English Country dancing since the mid-1990s. Her experience as an English country dance clarinetist gives her a keen appreciation of the link between the music and the dance figures, something she brings to her teaching. Mary's guest this month is Susan Kevra, a dance caller, musician, and singer who makes her home in Nashville, Tennessee. Dancers on both sides of the Atlantic appreciate her diverse repertoire of singing squares, Western patter calls, contras, and English Country dances. She has also choreographed a number of well-loved contra and square dances. Susan has taught English Country dancing since the mid-1990s. Her experience as an English country dance clarinetist gives her a keen appreciation of the link between the music and the dance figures, something she brings to her teaching. false full 20 c115e37f-8448-4bec-bf8e-8de857805389 Episode 19 - Ben Sachs-Hamilton See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 1 Dec 2023 20:54:24 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Ben Sachs-Hamilton, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-19-ben-sachs-hamilton-MW9cYM41 See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 19 - Ben Sachs-Hamilton Ben Sachs-Hamilton, Mary Wesley 01:14:03 In this episode Mary is joined by contra dance caller and community organizer Ben Sachs-Hamilton - right in her own living room in Burlington, VT! Ben started contra dancing at 12 and started teaching dances at 15. Since then he has called and organized for dances across the northeast, with a focus on LGBTQ and gender-role-free dance communities. He fosters a welcoming and inclusive space for diverse groups of new and experienced dancers, adding tips on style and safety into his teaching. Ben currently lives in Western Massachusetts. In this episode Mary is joined by contra dance caller and community organizer Ben Sachs-Hamilton - right in her own living room in Burlington, VT! Ben started contra dancing at 12 and started teaching dances at 15. Since then he has called and organized for dances across the northeast, with a focus on LGBTQ and gender-role-free dance communities. He fosters a welcoming and inclusive space for diverse groups of new and experienced dancers, adding tips on style and safety into his teaching. Ben currently lives in Western Massachusetts. dance calling, contra, calling, contra dance, folk dance false full 19 7e471b97-a18a-4143-af09-4bba4d76c74b Episode 18 - David Smukler See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

 Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Wed, 8 Nov 2023 18:30:20 +0000 ben@cdss.org (David Smukler, Mary Welsey) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-18-david-smukler-KeTNJjEB See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

 Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 18 - David Smukler David Smukler, Mary Welsey 01:32:11 This episode we hear from the most excellent David Smukler. A dance caller, scholar, organizer, choreographer, teacher, champion of chestnuts…the list goes on. He grew up singing folk songs with his mom and began dancing contras in New Hampshire as a teen. In 1981 he was drafted to call for his local dance and has been calling ever since. David helped create an innovative Central New York gathering for callers, as well as the world’s first Contra Prom. David has recently returned for another term on the CDSS board and is next in line to serve as board president! This episode we hear from the most excellent David Smukler. A dance caller, scholar, organizer, choreographer, teacher, champion of chestnuts…the list goes on. He grew up singing folk songs with his mom and began dancing contras in New Hampshire as a teen. In 1981 he was drafted to call for his local dance and has been calling ever since. David helped create an innovative Central New York gathering for callers, as well as the world’s first Contra Prom. David has recently returned for another term on the CDSS board and is next in line to serve as board president! dance, dance calling, contra, folk dance false full 18 df215b7d-25a5-428c-a262-27df186e02d8 Episode 17 - Susan Petrick See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Learn more about Susan on her website including some of the dances she's written!

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 6 Oct 2023 19:11:34 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Susan Petrick, Mary Weslet) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-17-susan-petrick-J2KNpEFc See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Learn more about Susan on her website including some of the dances she's written!

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 17 - Susan Petrick Susan Petrick, Mary Weslet 01:14:00 This episode we head to northern California for a conversation with the wonderful Susan Petrick. In their conversation, Mary and Susan chat about her beginnings in the New England contra dance scene in college and the ways in which dance and calling followed her through several moves across the country. They also discuss the echoes between Susan’s professional work as a cognitive psychologist and the realm of dance calling. In both worlds, clear communication is key. This episode we head to northern California for a conversation with the wonderful Susan Petrick. In their conversation, Mary and Susan chat about her beginnings in the New England contra dance scene in college and the ways in which dance and calling followed her through several moves across the country. They also discuss the echoes between Susan’s professional work as a cognitive psychologist and the realm of dance calling. In both worlds, clear communication is key. dance calling, contra calling, contra dance false full 17 da640673-f76a-495f-9720-93d00304d5f2 Episode 16 - Catherine Burns See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

  • Catherine has deep ties with the Old Sod Society, the house band for the original Ottawa contra dance for many years. During the pandemic lockdown several community members collaborated to create an oral history of the Society, which you can listen to here.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 20:44:45 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Catherine Burns, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-16-catherine-burns-NXG_jqp8 See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

  • Catherine has deep ties with the Old Sod Society, the house band for the original Ottawa contra dance for many years. During the pandemic lockdown several community members collaborated to create an oral history of the Society, which you can listen to here.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 16 - Catherine Burns Catherine Burns, Mary Wesley 01:12:45 Catherine Burns has been at the heart of the Ottawa contra dance scene for decades. Born in Switzerland to Canadian parents Catherine traveled the world in her youth then became the house caller for the Old Sod Folk Music Society when they started a dance in the late 90s. Since then, she’s been a steady presence in the Ottawa dance scene, helping to mentor new callers and shape a warm and welcoming community in her chosen home town. Catherine Burns has been at the heart of the Ottawa contra dance scene for decades. Born in Switzerland to Canadian parents Catherine traveled the world in her youth then became the house caller for the Old Sod Folk Music Society when they started a dance in the late 90s. Since then, she’s been a steady presence in the Ottawa dance scene, helping to mentor new callers and shape a warm and welcoming community in her chosen home town. dance calling, contra dance, folk dance false full 16 dc58afc7-268f-472b-83f7-d7735ba90db9 Episode 15 - Luke Donforth See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Tue, 4 Jul 2023 18:57:48 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Luke Donforth, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-15-luke-donforth-MUOpp0eL See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 15 - Luke Donforth Luke Donforth, Mary Wesley 01:40:06 This month Mary is joined by longtime friend, collaborator, and fellow Vermont caller and choreographer Luke Donforth. They revisit memories and stories from the Burlington area Mad Robin Callers Collective in 2009 and dive into Luke's cross-country calling career. As a prolific, you could even say compulsive dance choreographer they also spend some time in his dance writing brain. Enjoy! This month Mary is joined by longtime friend, collaborator, and fellow Vermont caller and choreographer Luke Donforth. They revisit memories and stories from the Burlington area Mad Robin Callers Collective in 2009 and dive into Luke's cross-country calling career. As a prolific, you could even say compulsive dance choreographer they also spend some time in his dance writing brain. Enjoy! callers, contra dance, dance caller false full 15 81a0f7f4-40bf-41e3-abad-9ba24ed5b39a Episode 14 - Steve Zakon-Anderson See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

 

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

  • *Audio only* of Steve calling at the Concord Scout House - 2023 (recording provided by Steve)

Steve calling the dance Hillsboro Jig by Bill Thomas at the 2019 Memorial Day Dawn Dance in Brattleboro, VT with music by Polaris.

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Tue, 30 May 2023 20:00:34 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Steve Zakon-Anderson, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-14-steve-zakon-anderson-DVYFcf7e See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

 

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

  • *Audio only* of Steve calling at the Concord Scout House - 2023 (recording provided by Steve)

Steve calling the dance Hillsboro Jig by Bill Thomas at the 2019 Memorial Day Dawn Dance in Brattleboro, VT with music by Polaris.

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 14 - Steve Zakon-Anderson Steve Zakon-Anderson, Mary Wesley 01:38:11 This month we talk to the wonderful Steve Zakon-Anderson. Steve began dancing and calling in New Hampshire and has been influenced by and influential to the New England dancing tradition. He’s written over 30 contemporary contra dances, many of which are used by callers around the country. In this episode he shares stories about the people and places that have shaped him as a caller and as a person, as well as some pretty deep thoughts about what this calling thing is all about. Enjoy! This month we talk to the wonderful Steve Zakon-Anderson. Steve began dancing and calling in New Hampshire and has been influenced by and influential to the New England dancing tradition. He’s written over 30 contemporary contra dances, many of which are used by callers around the country. In this episode he shares stories about the people and places that have shaped him as a caller and as a person, as well as some pretty deep thoughts about what this calling thing is all about. Enjoy! contra caller, contra dance, folk dance false full 14 107c6450-a938-4d0f-9567-dcb754d48e9e Episode 13 - Louise Siddons See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

 

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Louise calling the dance The Reminder by Louise Siddons at the London Barndance in London, UK with music by Portland Drive.

Louise calling the square dance Square Line Special by Gary Roodman at the Brighton Gender-Free Contra+ dance in Brighton, UK with fiddling by Linda Game.

More about Louise

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Wed, 3 May 2023 18:29:56 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Louise Siddons, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-13-louise-siddons-pyUKavlV See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

 

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Louise calling the dance The Reminder by Louise Siddons at the London Barndance in London, UK with music by Portland Drive.

Louise calling the square dance Square Line Special by Gary Roodman at the Brighton Gender-Free Contra+ dance in Brighton, UK with fiddling by Linda Game.

More about Louise

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 13 - Louise Siddons Louise Siddons, Mary Wesley 01:42:19 In this episode, Mary interviews Louise Siddons about her involvement with communities in Michigan and Oklahoma, and across the pond in the UK. We'll also learn about her work developing and teaching the practice of “positional calling” for social dance, which has recently culminated in a new book, published through CDSS, called Dancing the Whole Dance: Positional Calling for Contra. In the interview Louise shares what it’s been like to step into a leading role in the discussion about positional calling, and how her personal experiences on and off the dance floor have shaped her approach to dance leadership. In this episode, Mary interviews Louise Siddons about her involvement with communities in Michigan and Oklahoma, and across the pond in the UK. We'll also learn about her work developing and teaching the practice of “positional calling” for social dance, which has recently culminated in a new book, published through CDSS, called Dancing the Whole Dance: Positional Calling for Contra. In the interview Louise shares what it’s been like to step into a leading role in the discussion about positional calling, and how her personal experiences on and off the dance floor have shaped her approach to dance leadership. dance calling, contra calling, positional calling, contra dance false full 13 36cf58ba-0968-48fc-aa9d-44bb094c8a60 Episode 12 - Wendy Graham See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Wendy

  • Wendy talks about some simple exercises she does to help dancers stay alert late into an evening of dancing! See her demonstrate these moves and share other insights into her approach to calling English Country Dance in this web chat series: "Five Things Inside the Dancing Mind of Wendy Graham."

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 30 Mar 2023 20:11:49 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Wendy Graham, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-12-wendy-graham-dbEzmKua See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Wendy

  • Wendy talks about some simple exercises she does to help dancers stay alert late into an evening of dancing! See her demonstrate these moves and share other insights into her approach to calling English Country Dance in this web chat series: "Five Things Inside the Dancing Mind of Wendy Graham."

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 12 - Wendy Graham Wendy Graham, Mary Wesley 01:34:45 Wendy Graham (Durango, Colorado) is a self-proclaimed “dance maniac.” Her passion for music, song and dance caught fire in 1991 on a Danish-American Exchange (DAE) youth dance tour to Denmark. Today, Wendy leads English and American community folk dances and teaches social couples dance across the country and around the world. In this interview Wendy shares some powerful stories about the formative experiences that shaped her love and dedication to community dancing (and also explains how she got so many pen pals!) She also offers some of her thoughts on the ever-shifting landscape of dance roles and calling terminology, including global positional calling, which we haven’t really discussed on this podcast very much. You’ll love getting to know Wendy! Wendy Graham (Durango, Colorado) is a self-proclaimed “dance maniac.” Her passion for music, song and dance caught fire in 1991 on a Danish-American Exchange (DAE) youth dance tour to Denmark. Today, Wendy leads English and American community folk dances and teaches social couples dance across the country and around the world. In this interview Wendy shares some powerful stories about the formative experiences that shaped her love and dedication to community dancing (and also explains how she got so many pen pals!) She also offers some of her thoughts on the ever-shifting landscape of dance roles and calling terminology, including global positional calling, which we haven’t really discussed on this podcast very much. You’ll love getting to know Wendy! contra dance, dance caller false full 12 6c0837ed-bc04-4ee4-92aa-c61e285c47f2 Episode 11 - Will Mentor See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 24 Feb 2023 20:30:08 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Will Mentor, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-11-will-mentor-j1FuPrlh See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 11 - Will Mentor Will Mentor, Mary Wesley 01:40:08 This episode, Mary talks with Will Mentor, who began his calling career in Fairfield, Iowa, 1995. Since then he has called dances, dance weekends, and weeklong dance camps all over the United States. Canada, and Europe. Now from Northern Vermont, Will is known for his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence. He loves to choreograph evenings with a variety of dances and tempos that at times surprise and always delight. All this while keeping intact his guiding principle as a caller: "It's about the dancers!" This episode, Mary talks with Will Mentor, who began his calling career in Fairfield, Iowa, 1995. Since then he has called dances, dance weekends, and weeklong dance camps all over the United States. Canada, and Europe. Now from Northern Vermont, Will is known for his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence. He loves to choreograph evenings with a variety of dances and tempos that at times surprise and always delight. All this while keeping intact his guiding principle as a caller: "It's about the dancers!" contra calling, folks dance, contra dance false full 11 40cb7b2f-9b4a-4f2d-8446-fcb949662793 Episode 10 - Chrissy Fowler See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Chrissy and the Belfast Flying Shoes community

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 22 Dec 2022 18:51:34 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Chrissy Fowler, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-10-chrissy-fowler-imNN23s_ See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Chrissy and the Belfast Flying Shoes community

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 10 - Chrissy Fowler Chrissy Fowler, Mary Wesley 01:31:47 This episode, Mary interviews Maine caller and organizer Chrissy Fowler. In 2005, Chrissy co-founded a local dance series which has evolved into a thriving participatory arts nonprofit—Belfast Flying Shoes. She likes to cultivate community by organizing fun stuff, including BFS programs and has also been involved with Puttin’ On the Dance, a conference for Northeast dance organizers. Chrissy also leads dances at BFS, other dance series, schools, weddings, camps, conferences, reunions, and more. Chrissy once wrote a sermon on dance as spiritual practice, and her favorite dance to call is whatever is working well for the folks she's leading in the moment, but if she had to choose just one, the circle mixer version of Heel & Toe Polka would be at the top of the list. This episode, Mary interviews Maine caller and organizer Chrissy Fowler. In 2005, Chrissy co-founded a local dance series which has evolved into a thriving participatory arts nonprofit—Belfast Flying Shoes. She likes to cultivate community by organizing fun stuff, including BFS programs and has also been involved with Puttin’ On the Dance, a conference for Northeast dance organizers. Chrissy also leads dances at BFS, other dance series, schools, weddings, camps, conferences, reunions, and more. Chrissy once wrote a sermon on dance as spiritual practice, and her favorite dance to call is whatever is working well for the folks she's leading in the moment, but if she had to choose just one, the circle mixer version of Heel & Toe Polka would be at the top of the list. dance, dance calling, contra, traditional dance, dance organizing, contra dance, maine, folk dance false full 10 95a797df-2f4b-4c07-a652-ac49a53fc2ce Episode 9 - Sue Rosen See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Wed, 23 Nov 2022 16:05:01 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Sue Rosen, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-9-sue-rosen-orQILRYN See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 9 - Sue Rosen Sue Rosen, Mary Wesley 01:39:48 This episode, Mary interviews Sue Rosen, a leading caller of contras, squares, English country dance and family dance programs for 30 years in the Boston area, across the country, and overseas. They talk about the central role of the traditional dance community in Sue and her family’s life, and the landscape of the Boston dance scene over the years, including stories about two of her most significant mentors—Ted Sannella and Larry Jennings. Sue also shares her thoughts on the philosophy of calling, choreography, and working with musicians, and take a look to the future, considering what lies ahead as we continue to navigate the interruption of the pandemic. This episode, Mary interviews Sue Rosen, a leading caller of contras, squares, English country dance and family dance programs for 30 years in the Boston area, across the country, and overseas. They talk about the central role of the traditional dance community in Sue and her family’s life, and the landscape of the Boston dance scene over the years, including stories about two of her most significant mentors—Ted Sannella and Larry Jennings. Sue also shares her thoughts on the philosophy of calling, choreography, and working with musicians, and take a look to the future, considering what lies ahead as we continue to navigate the interruption of the pandemic. dance, contra calling, contra dance false full 9 a2cceeea-eef2-4777-ad99-38d69e8f7587 Episode 8 - Chris Ricciotti See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Chris

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 27 Oct 2022 19:56:11 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Chris Ricciotti, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-8-chris-ricciotti-RnloGaff See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Chris

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 8 - Chris Ricciotti Chris Ricciotti, Mary Wesley 01:30:31 We’re back with an interview with none other than the “Queen Mum” of gender-free contra dancing, Chris Ricciotti! Chris has a long resume as a dancer, dance teacher, caller, and organizer and he’s been one of the pillars of the gender-free dance community. In 1987, he started what would eventually become a network of contra, square, English and folk dances for the gay, lesbian, bi, and trans community around New England and the US. Chris still teaches contra and square dancing, English, Scottish country dancing, Scandanavian turning couple dances, International Folk dances and vintage couple and set dances from the 1860s through the 1920's. He also plays melodeon for contra and English dances as well as morris dancing! We’re back with an interview with none other than the “Queen Mum” of gender-free contra dancing, Chris Ricciotti! Chris has a long resume as a dancer, dance teacher, caller, and organizer and he’s been one of the pillars of the gender-free dance community. In 1987, he started what would eventually become a network of contra, square, English and folk dances for the gay, lesbian, bi, and trans community around New England and the US. Chris still teaches contra and square dancing, English, Scottish country dancing, Scandanavian turning couple dances, International Folk dances and vintage couple and set dances from the 1860s through the 1920's. He also plays melodeon for contra and English dances as well as morris dancing! dance calling, contra dance false full 8 de912c2c-6ae7-4576-8560-91e8073b87b3 Chris Ricciotti Teaser Thu, 13 Oct 2022 19:35:20 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Chris Ricciotti, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/chris-ricciotti-teaser-cpndT6NL Chris Ricciotti Teaser Chris Ricciotti, Mary Wesley 00:02:57 COVID hit the From the Mic team and we're a little behind on episodes. We'll be back in the next week or so, but in the meantime, check out this teaser for our upcoming interview with Chris Ricciotti. How far would you go for just one more square dance? COVID hit the From the Mic team and we're a little behind on episodes. We'll be back in the next week or so, but in the meantime, check out this teaser for our upcoming interview with Chris Ricciotti. How far would you go for just one more square dance? false bonus 369dea8c-e1e1-42ef-b060-b3cac3ec1afd Episode 7 - Chris Page See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Chris

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 25 Aug 2022 14:33:44 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Chris Page, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-7-chris-page-J_6bxHf2 See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Sound bites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Chris

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 7 - Chris Page Chris Page, Mary Wesley 01:29:44 This episode, Mary talks with caller and choreographer Chris Page, who has called contras and English country dance in San Diego for about 15 years. When calling, his main concern is being serious about dancers not taking themselves too seriously. Along with Michael Dyck, he's turned his obsession with the history of contra dance choreography into something productive through the online database, The Caller's Box. There are lots of fascinating tidbits for callers and choreographers alike in this one. Check it out! This episode, Mary talks with caller and choreographer Chris Page, who has called contras and English country dance in San Diego for about 15 years. When calling, his main concern is being serious about dancers not taking themselves too seriously. Along with Michael Dyck, he's turned his obsession with the history of contra dance choreography into something productive through the online database, The Caller's Box. There are lots of fascinating tidbits for callers and choreographers alike in this one. Check it out! dance, english country dance, contra dance, contra coreography, coreography false full 7 42e54f23-86a1-4776-b87c-35250cd2599c Episode 6 - Sue Hulsether See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

 

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Sue and Join Up Hands

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 28 Jul 2022 20:12:20 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Sue Hulsether, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-6-sue-hulsether-hqEtg_ax See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts and more. Click here to download the transcript directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

 

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

More about Sue and Join Up Hands

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 6 - Sue Hulsether Sue Hulsether, Mary Wesley 01:27:44 This episode, we talk with Sue Hulsether, a dance caller, teaching artist, clogger, and musician hailing from Wisconsin. Since 2003, she has travelled from coast to coast to lead dances in dance halls, schools, barns, and community centers. Dancing with thousands of school children each year, her artist-in-residence career has risen out of the skills she gained from over 10 years as an elementary music teacher. Her influence and repertoire is wide, with dancers ranging from preschoolers to octogenarians and she calls squares, contras, circle dances, longways whole-set dances, and play parties. This episode, we talk with Sue Hulsether, a dance caller, teaching artist, clogger, and musician hailing from Wisconsin. Since 2003, she has travelled from coast to coast to lead dances in dance halls, schools, barns, and community centers. Dancing with thousands of school children each year, her artist-in-residence career has risen out of the skills she gained from over 10 years as an elementary music teacher. Her influence and repertoire is wide, with dancers ranging from preschoolers to octogenarians and she calls squares, contras, circle dances, longways whole-set dances, and play parties. dance calling, contra dance false full 6 70fad6a5-2c99-48d8-b9a9-8aa28e524c5c Episode 5 - Gaye Fifer See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more. Or click here to download it directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

  • Gaye calling the dance "Gaye's Groove" with music by The Syncopaths at the 2018 Atlanta Dance Weekend
  • Gaye calling "Rick's Triplet #2" by Rick Mohr to the music of Turnip the Beet (Kelsey Wells & Jeremy Lekich) at the Trillium Twirl in Michigan in 2019
  • Gaye calling the grid square "Can of Worms" by Bob Isaacs with music by The Syncopaths at the 2018 Atlanta Dance Weekend
  • Gaye calling "United We Dance" by Bob Isaacs with music by the Asheville Cats in Cocoa Beach, Florida in 2015

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 30 Jun 2022 17:25:06 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Gaye Fifer, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-5-gaye-fifer-WDN1aOv6 See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more. Or click here to download it directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

  • Gaye calling the dance "Gaye's Groove" with music by The Syncopaths at the 2018 Atlanta Dance Weekend
  • Gaye calling "Rick's Triplet #2" by Rick Mohr to the music of Turnip the Beet (Kelsey Wells & Jeremy Lekich) at the Trillium Twirl in Michigan in 2019
  • Gaye calling the grid square "Can of Worms" by Bob Isaacs with music by The Syncopaths at the 2018 Atlanta Dance Weekend
  • Gaye calling "United We Dance" by Bob Isaacs with music by the Asheville Cats in Cocoa Beach, Florida in 2015

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 5 - Gaye Fifer Gaye Fifer, Mary Wesley 01:34:28 This episode Mary talks with, Gaye Fifer, an accomplished caller from Pittsburgh, PA. An active dancer herself, Gaye understands the subtleties of making dances particularly satisfying for dancers. Her instructions are clear and concise, as she is a teacher by profession. An easy smile and delightful sense of humor are part of Gaye's relaxed, pleasant style at the microphone. Gaye calls contra and English dances throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is also an enthusiastic advocate and instructor of contra-style waltz. Gaye is currently President of the Board of CDSS. This episode Mary talks with, Gaye Fifer, an accomplished caller from Pittsburgh, PA. An active dancer herself, Gaye understands the subtleties of making dances particularly satisfying for dancers. Her instructions are clear and concise, as she is a teacher by profession. An easy smile and delightful sense of humor are part of Gaye's relaxed, pleasant style at the microphone. Gaye calls contra and English dances throughout the U.S. and Canada. She is also an enthusiastic advocate and instructor of contra-style waltz. Gaye is currently President of the Board of CDSS. social dance, calling, contra dance false full 5 000a417b-1d6c-4a34-88d6-ea23a0850701 Bonus Episode! A tour of Tony Parkes' audio archive In this bonus episode Tony Parkes shares archival recordings of 5 callers who deeply influenced his style:

  • Ralph Page
  • Rod Linnell
  • Ed Durlacher
  • Ed Gilmore
  • Fred Townsand

See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more, or click here to download a transcript of this episode directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Wed, 29 Jun 2022 15:36:32 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Mary Wesley, Tony Parkes) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/bonus-episode-a-tour-of-tony-parkes-audio-archive-ZxYAtjAk In this bonus episode Tony Parkes shares archival recordings of 5 callers who deeply influenced his style:

  • Ralph Page
  • Rod Linnell
  • Ed Durlacher
  • Ed Gilmore
  • Fred Townsand

See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more, or click here to download a transcript of this episode directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Bonus Episode! A tour of Tony Parkes' audio archive Mary Wesley, Tony Parkes 00:27:28 In addition to being an amazing dance caller, Tony Parkes is also a dance historian and collector of archival recordings of dance callers through time. Join Tony and Mary in this bonus episode as they listen to a selection of recordings together. In addition to being an amazing dance caller, Tony Parkes is also a dance historian and collector of archival recordings of dance callers through time. Join Tony and Mary in this bonus episode as they listen to a selection of recordings together. dance calling, square dance, archival recording, contra dance false bonus 06265a8b-56c3-474c-9656-5f3a13de8c9f Episode 4 - Tony Parkes See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more. Or click here to download it directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

  • All tracks of Tony’s calling were recorded at the 2011 Dare to Be Square Weekend in Brasstown, NC and distributed by CDSS as the DTBS Syllabus
    • Tony calling Dosido & Face the Sides, track 033
    • Tony calling the singing square The Auctioneer, track 133
    • Tony calling The Kitchen Lancers, track 064
    • Tony calling The Merry-Go-Round, track 157

Other Links

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 27 May 2022 19:17:41 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Tony Parkes, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-4-tony-parkes-hdahstz2 See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more. Or click here to download it directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

  • All tracks of Tony’s calling were recorded at the 2011 Dare to Be Square Weekend in Brasstown, NC and distributed by CDSS as the DTBS Syllabus
    • Tony calling Dosido & Face the Sides, track 033
    • Tony calling the singing square The Auctioneer, track 133
    • Tony calling The Kitchen Lancers, track 064
    • Tony calling The Merry-Go-Round, track 157

Other Links

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 4 - Tony Parkes Tony Parkes, Mary Wesley 01:38:12 Tony has been calling square and contra dances for more than 50 years. He’s composed over 90 square and contra dance routines, some of which have become modern classics. Tony has also been featured on multiple recordings as caller, pianist, director, and/or producer. An encyclopedia of square and contra dance history, he’s full of vivid recollections of the many mentors and sources of inspiration that have made him the caller, dance leader, and person that he is today. From his beginnings as a 14-year-old stepping up to the mic at Farm and Wilderness Camp to call Golden Slippers, to writing the foundational contra dance calling text which has helped so many callers find their way to the stage, to his most recent publication, in which, to use his words, he “gives away the farm” sharing his square dance repertoire and know-how. Tony has been calling square and contra dances for more than 50 years. He’s composed over 90 square and contra dance routines, some of which have become modern classics. Tony has also been featured on multiple recordings as caller, pianist, director, and/or producer. An encyclopedia of square and contra dance history, he’s full of vivid recollections of the many mentors and sources of inspiration that have made him the caller, dance leader, and person that he is today. From his beginnings as a 14-year-old stepping up to the mic at Farm and Wilderness Camp to call Golden Slippers, to writing the foundational contra dance calling text which has helped so many callers find their way to the stage, to his most recent publication, in which, to use his words, he “gives away the farm” sharing his square dance repertoire and know-how. dance calling, contra dance false full 4 efbbe6e4-4e2e-49f9-8ee1-7009ab999bb4 Episode 3 - Sarah VanNorstrand See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more. Or click here to download it directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other Links

  • Check out Sarah's personal website
  • Sarah's home dance where she got her start dancing and calling is run by the Syracuse Country Dancers
  • Sarah is a longtime collaborator with Great Bear

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Thu, 28 Apr 2022 18:42:25 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Mary Wesley, Sarah VanNorstrand) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-3-sarah-vannorstrand-rbA1djZU See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more. Or click here to download it directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other Links

  • Check out Sarah's personal website
  • Sarah's home dance where she got her start dancing and calling is run by the Syracuse Country Dancers
  • Sarah is a longtime collaborator with Great Bear

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 3 - Sarah VanNorstrand Mary Wesley, Sarah VanNorstrand 01:26:59 This episode, Mary talks with Sarah VanNorstrand, who has been calling, organizing and teaching contra, square, and family/community dances for over 15 years. They trace the roots of her connection to traditional music and dance back to her teenage years in Syracuse, and she shares her thoughts about matching dance choreography to music, including what she learned working alongside contra dance super-band Great Bear. Sarah also speaks to the many ways she works as a caller to facilitate a welcoming and fulfilling experience for everyone on the dance floor. This episode, Mary talks with Sarah VanNorstrand, who has been calling, organizing and teaching contra, square, and family/community dances for over 15 years. They trace the roots of her connection to traditional music and dance back to her teenage years in Syracuse, and she shares her thoughts about matching dance choreography to music, including what she learned working alongside contra dance super-band Great Bear. Sarah also speaks to the many ways she works as a caller to facilitate a welcoming and fulfilling experience for everyone on the dance floor. dance calling, square dance, contra dance false full 3 7aa09d22-b333-4ba8-8403-a64813c2b636 Episode 2 - Lisa Greenleaf See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more. Or click here to download it directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other Links:

  • From her position as an internationally recognized dance caller and teacher Lisa has been interviewed many times! Here are a few others if you want to hear more:
  • Lisa's home dance, which she helps organize, is the Thursday Night Contra at the Concord, MA Scout House
    • She's also very involved with the New England Folk Festival Association (NEFFA)
  • Lisa mentions BIDA, the Boston Intergenerational Dance Advocates
  • She also mentions dance choreographer and commentator Larry Jennings, who you can get to know through his books Zesty Contras (1983) and Give & Take (2004)
  • Several musicians and callers mentioned in Lisa's interview have appeared on our sister podcast "Contra Pulse!" Check them out here:

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Wed, 6 Apr 2022 20:00:10 +0000 ben@cdss.org (lisa greenleaf, mary wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-2-lisa-greenleaf-c2C0o_vX See the From the Mic website for transcripts and more. Or click here to download it directly.

And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent.

Soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other Links:

  • From her position as an internationally recognized dance caller and teacher Lisa has been interviewed many times! Here are a few others if you want to hear more:
  • Lisa's home dance, which she helps organize, is the Thursday Night Contra at the Concord, MA Scout House
    • She's also very involved with the New England Folk Festival Association (NEFFA)
  • Lisa mentions BIDA, the Boston Intergenerational Dance Advocates
  • She also mentions dance choreographer and commentator Larry Jennings, who you can get to know through his books Zesty Contras (1983) and Give & Take (2004)
  • Several musicians and callers mentioned in Lisa's interview have appeared on our sister podcast "Contra Pulse!" Check them out here:

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 2 - Lisa Greenleaf lisa greenleaf, mary wesley 01:34:52 In our conversation we talk about Lisa’s journey from the dance floor to the caller’s mic and the mentors she had along the way, in particular the prolific dance choreographer Larry Jennings. We explore the driving factors behind Lisa’s deep love for and commitment to leading social dance and get into the nuts and bolts of how she thinks about her role as a caller. She also shares her insights on building strong dance communities. There’s much to learn there. Enjoy! In our conversation we talk about Lisa’s journey from the dance floor to the caller’s mic and the mentors she had along the way, in particular the prolific dance choreographer Larry Jennings. We explore the driving factors behind Lisa’s deep love for and commitment to leading social dance and get into the nuts and bolts of how she thinks about her role as a caller. She also shares her insights on building strong dance communities. There’s much to learn there. Enjoy! dance calling, contra dance false full 2 529e92af-3fb7-404c-bdd3-8fbfbaad477a Episode 1 - Phil Jamison In the debut episode of From the Mic we meet Phil Jamison of Asheville, North Carolina. Phil is nationally-known as a dance caller, old-time musician, and flatfoot dancer. He has called dances, performed, and taught at music festivals and dance events throughout the U.S. and overseas since the early 1970s, including over forty years as a member of the Green Grass Cloggers. His flatfoot dancing was featured in the film, Songcatcher, for which he also served as Traditional Dance consultant. From 1982 through 2004, he toured and played guitar with Ralph Blizard and the New Southern Ramblers. He also plays old-time fiddle and banjo.

Over the last thirty years, Phil has done extensive research in the area of Appalachian dance, and his book Hoedowns, Reels, and Frolics: Roots and Branches of Southern Appalachian Dance (University of Illinois Press, 2015) tells the story behind the square dances, step dances, reels, and other forms of dance practiced in southern Appalachia. A 2017 inductee to the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame, Phil teaches traditional music and dance at Warren Wilson College in Asheville, North Carolina, where for twenty-five years he served as coordinator of the Old-Time Music and Dance Week at the Swannanoa Gathering.

Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

Music and soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other Links

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Fri, 25 Feb 2022 15:25:03 +0000 ben@cdss.org (Phil Jamison, Mary Wesley) https://from-the-mic.simplecast.com/episodes/from-the-mic-episode-1-phil-jamison-20UXIxA0 In the debut episode of From the Mic we meet Phil Jamison of Asheville, North Carolina. Phil is nationally-known as a dance caller, old-time musician, and flatfoot dancer. He has called dances, performed, and taught at music festivals and dance events throughout the U.S. and overseas since the early 1970s, including over forty years as a member of the Green Grass Cloggers. His flatfoot dancing was featured in the film, Songcatcher, for which he also served as Traditional Dance consultant. From 1982 through 2004, he toured and played guitar with Ralph Blizard and the New Southern Ramblers. He also plays old-time fiddle and banjo.

Over the last thirty years, Phil has done extensive research in the area of Appalachian dance, and his book Hoedowns, Reels, and Frolics: Roots and Branches of Southern Appalachian Dance (University of Illinois Press, 2015) tells the story behind the square dances, step dances, reels, and other forms of dance practiced in southern Appalachia. A 2017 inductee to the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame, Phil teaches traditional music and dance at Warren Wilson College in Asheville, North Carolina, where for twenty-five years he served as coordinator of the Old-Time Music and Dance Week at the Swannanoa Gathering.

Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

Music and soundbites featured in this episode (in order of appearance):

Other Links

See the From the Mic website for great bonus content, including pictures and audio, transcripts, and more. And the Country Dance and Song Society for information about Contra and English country dance across the continent

]]> Episode 1 - Phil Jamison Phil Jamison, Mary Wesley 01:22:14 Host Mary Wesley interviews nationally-known dance caller, old-time musician, and flatfoot dancer Phil Jamison. They talk about Phil's roots in the old time music scene, how he first stepped up to the mic as a caller, and his philosophy and approach to leading dances. They delve into his research about the history of dance calling in southern Appalachia and compare the ins-and-outs of square dance calling and contra dance calling. Phil also shares some incredible historic recordings of dance callers and some tracks from his own musical collaborations. Host Mary Wesley interviews nationally-known dance caller, old-time musician, and flatfoot dancer Phil Jamison. They talk about Phil's roots in the old time music scene, how he first stepped up to the mic as a caller, and his philosophy and approach to leading dances. They delve into his research about the history of dance calling in southern Appalachia and compare the ins-and-outs of square dance calling and contra dance calling. Phil also shares some incredible historic recordings of dance callers and some tracks from his own musical collaborations. dance calling, dance history, square dance, contra dance, folk dance, appalachia false full 1