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Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

Cornell Contra Dance Club, and other Ithaca dances
http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=355500147899&topic=13826

Several people have expressed concern to me, about the impact of the new Cornell Contra Dance Club (CCDC) on other dance organizations in Ithaca. So, I'd like to explain goals and motives. I'll cc it to dance organizers in Ithaca, and blind copy to other dancers, callers and musicians who might have interest.

When I first started to contra, there was a weekly Friday night dance at the Montessori school, about a mile from downtown-- a bigger and more convenient space than the current location at Bethel Grove. Often there were "name" bands and out-of-town callers, usually 3+ lines of dancers, and it was a lot of fun. Word got around, so there were always new folks trying it out, some becoming regulars. It seemed a self-sustaining event, both socially and financially.

After the move to to Bethel Grove, attendance gradually declined, to the point where it is now a small fraction of what it was 10 years ago. These days, new dancers come once, and rarely return. Fewer dancers means less money to pay bands and callers, and the quality decline in turn means fewer dancers. Sparse dances seem to be intrinsically less fun. It's a vicious circle.

Is there a national or regional decline happening for contra dance? Well, I often visit other dances across the US, and have not seen a general decline. Syracuse data is online, with an average of about 50 dancers weekly. The Binghamton dance seems to draw 50 to 100 dancers. Both those cities have increased their attendance, the past few years. I've heard the Rochester dance is also doing great.

Are there too many dances in Ithaca? If contra dances were like gasoline or food, that might easily be a problem. For some things, demand is inflexible, so each new competitor makes the slice thinner for everyone else. However, if contra were 'zero sum' like that, there'd be relatively constant dancers per capita, across the US, as is the case for gas stations and food stores. That's not true at all.

At one extreme is Greenfield MA, with 2/3 the population of Ithaca, and two thriving and renowned dances back-to-back on Friday and Saturday nights. Asheville NC also has two fantastic weekly dances, as do Glen Echo MD and Concord MA. There are pockets of good dances, in other locations. On the other extreme are LA, NYC, Miami, Dallas, and plenty of other places with one mediocre dance. Some areas have none at all.

As far as I can tell, contra dance is extremely discretionary spending, with extremely flexible demand. People will go if it's fun and if they know about it. They'll avoid it, if not. From my travels, I'd say regions packed with dance opportunities nearly always have more dancers at each event, not fewer. If anything, it seems to be the opposite of 'zero sum' competition.

So, one reason to start CCDC was just to get a regular dance going again, within walking distance of 50,000 potential dancers. Hopefully, people will be exposed to contra at the in-town event, find it to be fun, want to do more than 20 dances a year, and patronize other events too. A rising tide lifts all boats. Monthly dances might work for that, but more frequent dances seem more likely to get people 'in the habit'.

More specifically, we've had six CCDC dances so far, with an average attendance of 14 students and 13 non-students (the past two dances were 80% students). About half those folks are new to contra dancing, and they are potential audience for other dances. I've already seen 5 or 6 CCDC initiates at Bethel Grove.

Money is always tight for contra dance organizers, since live bands and callers are relatively expensive. But, as a student organization, CCDC has the opportunity to get funding from Cornell. CU supports fun things that don't involve alcohol! So, another good reason to start the club is that eventually, it can afford to bring in good bands (and also pay local bands and callers a decent amount). CCDC can get up to $500 this Fall, $1000 in Spring '11, and then whatever we can justify starting Fall '11. There's also another program we can apply to, to fund larger events starting in 2011.

Personally, I'd also like to see Cornell become a place where students learn to run dances, so they can spread new events to other places when they leave. So, the long term goal is to set up a student-run organization that will outlast my tenure as a Cornell undergraduate. Ithaca used to be a hotbed of contra dance innovation, producing callers and bands and dance organizers, and sending them out into the rest of the US. It would be nice to get that back.

Contra dance is a real community event, and I'd also like to see CCDC become a bridge between students and local Ithacans. The goal is to have a good mix of ages, both in the dancers, and in those who make the dance happen. I'm hoping that a lot of people will chip in with a little bit of time, so lots of people can learn how to run dances, and so it won't be a burden on anyone.

It's not easy to start a new event, and it's not always possible to do it in a way that pleases everyone. But, I hope that local contra dancers and other groups will support CCDC, and help create a local dance that all will enjoy!

For this Fall in particular, CCDC could really use more non-student dancers-- to help with initial cash flow, and create a critical mass of people to have fun with. Robert Purcell is not the perfect dance location, but it's sufficient for now. Free parking right next door, and there are dance 'six packs' that will save you $1 a dance. We're working on a better location for next year.

I'm definitely not an expert dance organizer, and would appreciate any comments, help or feedback. I also have hard data to back up some of the conclusions expressed here, and will happily send spreadsheets if anyone is interested.

This message is too long to post on the CCDC Facebook page, but I'll try to get a link to it from there, and also set up a discussion thread. The 'big picture' of contra dance in Ithaca probably deserves some talking.

Thanks,

Dennis Kolva dk429@cornell.edu
Treasurer
Cornell Contra Dance Club
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

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Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

Cornell Campus -- From Dennis: "We decided to cancel the CCDC contra dance this Saturday. CU students can go to Ecology House for a dance with the Contradictions, instead" [ as an invited guest of Ecology House or Balch Hall ] "CCDC will be back on Jan 29, starting out with Great Bear Trio in the Memorial Room." and from Rick of Contradictions: "The Ecology House Hoedown this Saturday, October 30, with the Contradictions, is an event for Ecology House or Balch Hall residents and their guests only. The room for the dance is quite small and is always filled to capacity with EH residents and their invitees. We apologize for any inconvenience that this misunderstanding may have caused." CCDC details http://canaaninstitute.org/mikesmusic/viewtopic.php?p=3740#3740

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New England Contra Dance

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club event at Appel Commons, in Ithaca NY (NOTE-- location change!)

The Cornell Contra Dance Club presents a New England style contra dance, at the Appel Commons 3rd Floor on the Cornell Campus, on Saturday, Oct 30, 2010, from 8-11 pm. Admission $4 for students, and $7 for others. Students $2 with ad from Cornell Daily Sun (10/28 or 10/29)!

This is the final event of the Fall semester contra dance series. We'll be back Jan 29 2011, with a dance at Willard Straight Hall, featuring Great Bear Trio!

PERFORMER INFO:

The band is Curt Osgood and Friends. Curt Osgood,of Binghamton NY, has been pleasing audiences with his dulcimer artistry for over twenty years, both as a solo and ensemble performer. The hammered dulcimer, a member of the zither family, is different from the Appalachian or fretted dulcimer in that the strings of the hammered dulcimer are tapped with little mallets or hammers rather than strummed. Its harp-like sound can invoke numerous musical textures. He'll be joined by Hope Greizer on fiddle, and Phil Robinson on guitar.

The caller is Bob Nicholson. This highly experienced caller from Syracuse is well known for his thoughtful calling, and high energy dances.

All dances taught. Beginners welcome. No partner needed. Casual dress.

Facebook club page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899

Facebook event page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899#!/event.php?eid=152444784797423

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html )

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

New England Contra Dance

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance, at Willard Straight Hall Memorial Room on the Cornell Campus, on Saturday, Jan 29, 2011, from 8-11 pm. Admission $2 for students, and $5 for others.

PERFORMER INFO: Great Bear Trio. Led by brothers Andrew and Noah VanNorstrand, this group is one of the most exciting contra dance bands in the nation. The core of Great Bear's instrumentation has always been twin fiddles and piano (ably supplied by mother Kim) but the line up is frequently augmented by mandolins, guitars, banjo and an assortment of percussion, including the African djembe and the Australian didgeridoo. Andrew and Noah draw heavily on Celtic and Appalachian fiddling traditions for their melodies, but with plenty of room for improvisation and an occasional alt-rock or world beat groove.

The caller is Sarah VanNorstrand. This young caller from Syracuse is well known for her thoughtful calling, and high energy dances.

All dances taught. Beginners welcome. No partner needed. Casual dress.

Facebook club page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899

Facebook event page http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=182868921729810

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html )

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/

==
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

New England Contra Dance

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance, at Appel Commons 3rd Floor on the Cornell Campus, on Saturday, Feb 26, 2011, from 8-11 pm. Admission $2 for students, and $5 for others.

PERFORMER INFO: Tunescape. An innovative dance band from Western NY & PA, TuneScape nudges the border between traditional music and modern groove. Inspired by the tunes of Ireland, New England, Quebec, and Appalachia, TuneScape creates an unmistakeable sound of power and beauty.

The caller is Nancy Spero. Nancy has been calling dances in the Ithaca area for more than a decade.

Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board.

Facebook club page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899

Facebook event page http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=124640684275784

Video clips of recent Cornell dances:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53aJi6DzMRU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxLe7dJIpt4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JogDOkGsOac
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0b5R3zzK884

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html )

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

New England Contra Dance -- David Kaynor with Nor'Easter

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance, at Appel Commons 3rd Floor on the Cornell Campus, on Saturday, April 23, 2011, from 8-11 pm. Admission $2 for students, and $5 for others.

PERFORMER INFO: Nor'Easter. This Boston-based band has delighted in bringing infectious, uplifting music to dance floors throughout the country since 2008. Cedar Stanistreet, Julie Vallimont and Max Newman are returning to Ithaca after a long absence, and they'll be sure to keep your feet moving!

The caller is David Kaynor. This seasoned caller is visiting from Greenfield MA. He has performed at dances all over the US and Europe, and it's a real treat to have him here.

Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board.

Facebook club page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899

Facebook event page http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=198972980134194

Video clips of recent Cornell dances:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53aJi6DzMRU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxLe7dJIpt4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JogDOkGsOac
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0b5R3zzK884

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html )

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

New England Contra Dance

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance, at the Willard Straight Hall Memorial Room on the Cornell Campus, on Saturday, Sept 3, 2011, from 8-11 pm. Admission $2 for students, and $5 for others.

PERFORMER INFO: Uncle Joe and the Rosebud Ramblers. This Ithaca band plays traditional songs and fiddle tunes, and they're back for a repeat of their fantastic performance in Sept '10. More info at http://www.facebook.com/UncleJoeandtheRosebudRamblers

The caller is Casey Carr. Fresh off a calling gig at the Grassroots Festival, she can create a good time for beginners and experienced dancers alike.

Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board.

Facebook club page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899

Video clips of recent Cornell dances:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53aJi6DzMRU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxLe7dJIpt4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JogDOkGsOac
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0b5R3zzK884

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html )

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

New England Contra Dance

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance, at Willard Straight Hall Memorial Room on the Cornell Campus, on Saturday, Oct 1, 2011, from 8-11 pm. Admission $2 for students, and $5 for others.

PERFORMER INFO: Last Exit. This assemblage of musicians from NYC and NJ blends the banana of traditional with the strawberry of innovation, creating delicious smoothies of progressively groovy contra music. The band includes Ross Harriss - Alto/Soprano Sax, Guitar, Doug Healy - Guitar, Bass, Djembe, Christopher Jacoby - Guitar, Mandolin, Accordion, and Laurie Tupper - flute. Laurie is now a Cornell grad student!

The caller is Katy Heine. She's an experienced and top-notch caller from the Ithaca area.

Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board. This event is also co-sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter.

Facebook group page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899
and http://www.facebook.com/#!/CornellContra

Video clips of recent Cornell dances:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53aJi6DzMRU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxLe7dJIpt4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JogDOkGsOac
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0b5R3zzK884

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html )

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

New England Contra Dance

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance, at Appel Commons 3rd Floor on the Cornell Campus, on Saturday, Oct 22, 2011, from 8-11 pm. Admission $2 for students, and $5 for others.

There will also be a free Scandinavian dance workshop at 7 PM at the same location, led by David Kaynor. Come learn how to do the schottische, hambo, polska, and other dances from Scandiavia!

PERFORMER INFO: Matching Orange-- an exciting new band from the Boston area that creates a swirling level of intensity, sometimes gritty, sometimes pure, and always engaging. Eric McDonald (guitar, mandolin, vocals), Eric Eid-Reiner (piano), and Brendan Carey Block (fiddle) take full advantage of their diverse musical background, with extensive training in folk, classical, jazz, and other traditions.

The caller is David Kaynor. He's an experienced and top-notch caller from Montague Mass. As leader of the Friday night dances at the Guiding Star Grange in Greenfield MA, he is one of the guiding stars of the "center" of the contra dance world.

Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board. This event is also co-sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter.

Facebook group page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899
and http://www.facebook.com/#!/CornellContra
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

WELCOME BACK CONTRA DANCE

Saturday, January 28th, 8-11 pm

******Come early at 7:30 for a free beginners workshop******

Appel Multi Purpose Room.

The famous “Great Bear Trio” from Syracuse will be ushering in a great semester with an excellent Contra Dance. All dances will be taught. Come by yourself or with friends.

This Saturday, January 28th, 8-11 pm

Appel Multi Purpose Room.

Sarah Van Norstrand, caller extraordinaire, will be calling. This combination of caller and musicians create wonderful and very fun dances that you will not want to miss! No experience necessary. All dances will be taught. No partner necessary. Meet new people, have fun and get great exercise!

If you don’t want to dance, come to listen to the live music.
Co Sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter and The Cornell Contra Dance Club
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

WELCOME BACK CONTRA DANCE

The famous “Great Bear Trio” (WITH CHRIS MILLER AND RACHEL BELL!!!!!!) will be ushering in a great semester with an excellent Contra Dance. All dances will be taught. Come by yourself or with friends.

Tonight, Saturday, January 28th, 8-11 pm Come early at 7:30 for a free beginners workshop

Appel Multi Purpose Room.

Sarah Van Norstrand, caller extraordinaire, will be calling. This combination of caller and musicians create wonderful and very fun dances that you will not want to miss! No experience necessary. All dances will be taught. No partner necessary. Meet new people, have fun and get great exercise!

If you don’t want to dance, come to listen to the live music.
Co Sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter and The Cornell Contra Dance Club

==
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club (CCDC) event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance with the Contradictions

Date: Saturday, April 7
Time: 8:00 - 11:00 pm
Location: Appel Commons Multipurpose Room on the Cornell campus
Admission: Students $2, General Public $5.

Music: The Contradictions (Laurie Hart, Rick Manning, Tom Hodgson, Dave Davies)
with caller Vikki Armstrong

Band website: http://lauriehartfiddle.com/contradictions.html

Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

Directions to Appel Commons: http://ifd.cornell.edu/maps/Appel.html

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board. This event is also co-sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter.

Facebook group page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899
and http://www.facebook.com/CornellContra

###
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club (CCDC) event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance with Goatboy

Date: Saturday, May 5th
Time: 7:30 - 11:00 pm
7:30 Beginner Workshop
8 - 11pm Dance!
Location: Memorial Room, Willard Straight Hall, on the Cornell campus
Admission: Students $2, General Public $5.

Music: Goatboy (Judy Hyman, Jeff Claus, Richie Stearns, and Jay Olsa from the Horseflies and Steve Selin from Evil City String Band)
with callers Casey Carr and Nancy Spero

Band websites:

Horseflies: http://www.thehorseflies.com
From their website: "The Horse Flies have figured out how to hold a hoedown in a physics lab." (New York Times)

Evil City String Band: http://www.evilcitystringband.com/fr_home.cfm
From their website: "The Evil City String Band delivers a high octane mix of traditional Old time Appalachian string band music and original songs. Unpretentious, trance based, highly repetitive and rhythmic, with often haunting lyrics loosely thrown over the tune like a battered jacket on a cold day."

Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

Directions to Willard Straight Hall: http://ifd.cornell.edu/maps/WSH.html

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board. This event is also co-sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter.

Facebook group page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899
and http://www.facebook.com/CornellContra

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html )

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/

Thank you for your support!
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club (CCDC) event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance with Notorious

Date: Saturday, September 8
Time: 7:30 - 11:00 pm
7:30 Beginner Workshop
8 - 11pm Dance!
Location: Memorial Room, Willard Straight Hall, on the Cornell campus
Admission: Students $2, General Public $5.

Music: Notorious with caller Katy Heine
Notorious' upbeat music draws from a range of genres including swing, blues, and classical as well as traditional Celtic, Eastern-European, and American music. Their performances have been described as having an abundance of style.

Band websites: listen to tunes or watch some videos before the dance
music on Myspace - http://www.myspace.com/notoriousfolk
main site - http://notoriousfolk.com/

________________________________________________________
Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

Directions to Willard Straight Hall: http://ifd.cornell.edu/maps/WSH.html

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board. This event is also co-sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter.

Facebook group page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899
and http://www.facebook.com/CornellContra

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html )

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/

Thank you for your support!
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club (CCDC) event in Ithaca NY

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance with Russet Trio and Bob Nicholson

Date: Saturday, September 29
Time: 7:30 - 11:00 pm
7:30 Beginner Workshop
8 - 11pm Dance!
Location: Memorial Room, Willard Straight Hall, on the Cornell campus
Admission: Students $2, General Public $5.

Music: Russet Trio
Band website: http://www.therussettrio.com/
A blend of Celtic and Appalachian music, Russet Trio's songs are high energy and will get you swinging!

________________________________________________________
Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

Directions to Willard Straight Hall: http://ifd.cornell.edu/maps/WSH.html

ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board. This event is also co-sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter.

Facebook group page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899
and http://www.facebook.com/CornellContra
Cornell Contra Dance website: https://sites.google.com/a/cornell.edu/contradance/

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html)

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/

Thank you for your support!

===
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===

Mike_L · Joined: 06 Apr 2006 Posts: 4996 Location: Canaan Jam Host

Notes Inégales and Margaret Mathews - in costume!

ITHACA NY -- Cornell Contra Dance Club (CCDC) event in Ithaca NY

FB https://www.facebook.com/events/540793442604074/

CCDC presents a New England style contra dance with Notes Inégales and Margaret Mathews - in costume!
Join us and the band in costume or as you are for our Halloween themed dance.

Date: Saturday, October 27
Time: 7:30 - 11:00 pm
7:30 Beginner Workshop
8 - 11pm Dance!
Location: 3rd floor conference room, Appel Commons, on the Cornell campus
Admission: Students $2, General Public $5.

Music: Notes Inégales
Band website: http://www.canaaninstitute.org/notesinegales.html
Notes Inégales play Celtic, American, and world fiddle tunes, adding their own special flair to each.

________________________________________________________
Beginners welcome. All dances taught. No partner needed. Casual dress. Smoke-free and alcohol-free.

This Dance is at Appel Commons on North Campus

42.453552,-76.47612

https://maps.google.com/maps?daddr=42.453552,-76.47612&hl=en&sll=42.453133,-76.47789&sspn=0.004544,0.014656&mra=mift&mrsp=1&sz=17&t=m&z=17

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ABOUT CCDC: The Cornell Contra Dance Club is a student-run organization that sponsors several contra and square dances on the Cornell campus, each semester. Events are co-sponsored by Cornell Student Activities Finance Committee, Cornell Community Center Programs and Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board. This event is also co-sponsored by Cornell Minds Matter.

Facebook group page http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=355500147899
and http://www.facebook.com/CornellContra
Cornell Contra Dance website: https://sites.google.com/a/cornell.edu/contradance/

ABOUT CONTRA DANCING:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DANCE Contra dancing is easy to learn, and about the most fun you can have with both feet on the ground. It's so easy to learn that you don't take lessons. Just show up at a dance and after a dance or two, you'll know all the moves. People are friendly and welcoming to beginners. Both singles and doubles come to contra dances and women as well as men ask people to dance. It is usual that you change partners after every dance. You will meet people in a relaxed, pleasant, smoke and alcohol free atmosphere.

WHAT TO WEAR? Wear smooth soled shoes and comfortable light weight clothing. Most people bring a bottle of drinking water. Contra dancing is joyous, so bring a smile! (Adapted from http://www.greatmeadowmusic.com/music.html)

More information About Contra Dancing:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance
http://www.thedancegypsy.com/

Thank you for your support!
_________________
Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

===