MUSIC Forum at canaaninstitute.org :: cinst.org

[Mike_L]

Fiddlehead Frolic

It's less than two weeks away! On April 28, 2012, Hands Four Dancers of Ithaca will host its fifth Fiddlehead Frolic, featuring one of the region's hottest contra dance bands, TUNESCAPE (Tim Ball on fiddle, Rachel Bell on accordion, Nadine Dyskant on flute, Jodi Austin on keyboard, and Peter Blue on percussion and nyckelharpa)--a band that "fearlessly explores the border between traditional music and modern groove." Calling with them will be the equally fearless Ron Buchanan of Pittsburgh, widely known for his creative choreography and mind-bending, high-energy squares.

We've also got plenty of hometown talent adding to the fun: contra, English country dance, and waltz sessions with Eileen Nicholson and Tom Hodgson (and perhaps a surprise guest as well!), a square dance session with the Uphill Battle Boys, and a contra medley with a panoply of skillful local callers. There will also be jamming opportunities, beginning with "Waltz Jam Sandwiches" at noon, and a musician's workshop with members of Tunescape. For the full schedule, go to http://hands4dancers.org/resources/Flyers/Frolic-Schedule-1.pdf.

Throughout the day there will be a silent auction, which will end at the evening break. Please remember to bring your auction contributions and a little spending money to help Hands Four put on this great event! We'll also be raffling off a fabulous quilt made with replica fabrics from the Civil War era.

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

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[Mike_L]

Apr 28 All day Contra Dance event Fiddlehead Frolic. Musicians: There will be JAMMING and musician's WORKSHOPS at this event. Details http://canaaninstitute.org/mikesmusic/viewtopic.php?p=4598#4598 Registration form and schedule http://www.hands4dancers.org/resources/Flyers/Frolic-Schedule-1.pdf
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Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

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[Mike_L]

Fifth Fiddlehead Frolic -- A dance extravaganza!
Hands Four Dancers of Ithaca
Saturday, 28 April, noon to 11 pm
Beverly J. Martin School, 302 W. Buffalo St., Ithaca

Nearly 12 hours of music-making and dance bliss featuring the wildly playful, inventive contra band Tunescape(Tim Ball on fiddle, Rachel Bell on accordion, Nadine Dyskant on flute, Jodi Austin on keyboard, and Peter Blue on percussion and nyckelharpa), who merge traditional and modern grooves with verve. Celebrated Pittsburgh caller Ron Buchanan will dish up his creatively sequenced choreography for contras and mind-bending, peppy squares. The Uphill Battle Boys (Tom Owens, Dan Palmer, Jim Riedy, Bruce Brown, and guest Laura Taylor) will keep the squares on the beat with hot old-time tunes, and August Wheat (Eileen Nicholson, Tom Hodgson, and special guest) will provide flowing music for contras, waltzes, and an English Country dance, smoothly called by Pamela Goddard. Adding to the fun, particularly in the ever-popular contra medley, will be local callers Casey Carr, Katy Heine, and Nancy Spero. For instrumentalists, Mike Ludgate will be coordinating on-going jam sessions (including "waltz jam sandwiches" noon to 1 pm) and Tunescape will lead a musicians' workshop (3-4 pm). Potluck supper 6:15-7:15 pm. Silent auction with a wide array of items and services. A chance to gather with old friends and make new ones.

See www.hands4dancers.org for details (including member/nonmember prices for afternoon, evening, or both) and registration form. Newcomers are always welcome; each dance is taught and the steps are simple, with friendly experienced dancers to assist beginners. Please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the floor, and plate/cutlery and a dish to share if you are joining us for the potluck supper. Some housing is available for out-of-town dancers; call 607-539-3174 for more information.

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

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[Mike_L]

Annual meeting ...

For the dancers among you, Luke and Jane's Gang are set for a Groovy Dance in Ithaca.

On Saturday, 16 June, Hands Four Dancers of Ithaca (HFDI) welcomes the first appearance of Jane's Gang and the long-awaited return of caller/dancer extraordinaire Luke Donforth (formerly Donev). Jane's Gang includes Jane Rothfield, fiddling her way through a high-energy repertoire of Southern, Celtic and original tunes; the inimitable Tom Hodgson on guitar, which in his hands is an orchestra; Allan Carr on rock-steady double bass; and Autumn Rose Lester, adding another violin four double pleasure. After finishing his doctorate in physics, Luke Donforth left Ithaca for Texas, Vermont, and Connecticut; he's been busy calling dances and inventing new moves and fun patterns, which his many friends here will be eager to try.

The evening begins at 6 pm at Beverly J. Martin School (302 W. Buffalo St., Ithaca) with a potluck supper, followed by the brief Annual Meeting of HFDI for election of board members, annual report, and input from members. Dancing (open to all; HFDI membership not required) is from 8 to 11 pm.

Beginners of all ages are always welcome; the steps are simple, every dance is briefly taught and called, and experienced dancers are always willing to help. No need to bring a partner, but please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the floor. Info: 607-539-3174 or www.hands4dancers.org. Admission: $8 HFDI members; $10 nonmembers.
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Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

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[Mike_L]

Aug 25 2012

Nadine Dyskant-Miller (flute and foot-percussion) and Barbara Dyskant (keyboard) will combine their prodigious talents with Ithaca's own Tim Ball for another great Hands Four dance on Saturday, August 25, from 8:00 to 11:00 at the Community School of Music and Art, 330 E. State St., Ithaca.

These three talented musicians make up Confluence, a highly creative, versatile, and energetic band that features both contemporary and traditional arrangements of music from Quebec, Ireland, New England, and elsewhere, plus modern grooves and rhythms and plenty of original material. Confluence’s music ranges from intensely driving to silky and lyrical, with plenty of exciting twists and surprises.

Bob Isaacs, a much-in-demand caller and choreographer from New Brunswick, NJ, is known for his clear, enthusiastic teaching and inventive choreography. He calls regularly in the Northeast as well as at dance camps such as Pinewoods, Frolic in the Fall, and Gypsy Meltdown.

This will be a special evening, as we expect to welcome some new and returning dancers from Cornell and Ithaca College and say goodbye to at least one local dancer who's leaving the next day for college elsewhere.
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Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

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[Mike_L]

Join us for one of Hands Four Dancers of Ithaca's biggest events of the year, our October DOUBLE DANCE with a band who helped redefine the modern contra dance tradition: WILD ASPARAGUS!!!! The dance will take place on Saturday, October 20, at Beverly Martin School at 302 West Buffalo Street.

The schedule:


4:00-6:00 p.m. -- Afternoon session for experienced dancers ($8 HFDI members, $10 non-members)*
6:15 p.m. -- Potluck supper (please bring a GINORMOUS dish to share; dancing is hungry work!)
8:00-11:00 p.m. -- Evening dance for all ($10 HFDI members, $12 non-members)*

*Come to both sessions and save! $16 members, $20 non-members
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Michael Ludgate - forum administrator
The Canaan Institute http://www.canaaninstitute.org/

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[Mike_L]

CONTRA DANCE WITH WILD ASPARAGUS AND GEORGE MARSHALL

What: Contra dance with Wild Asparagus and George Marshall
When: Saturday, 20 October; 4-6 pm dance for experienced dancers; 6:15 pm potluck
supper; 7:30 pm beginners’ workshop; 8-11 pm dancing for all
Where: Beverly Martin Elementary School, 302 W. Buffalo St., Ithaca

Dance bliss is guaranteed with the return of renowned caller George Marshall and Wild Asparagus. Springing up in the heart of the Pioneer (aka Asparagus) Valley of Massachusetts in the 1980s, the acclaimed band WILD ASPARAGUS has been pivotal in the contra dance renaissance. Their monthly "first-Saturdays" at Greenfield are packed. Over the years, these first-rate musicians have put their individual stamp on traditional tunes from New England, Canada, the wider Celtic world, and beyond, recognized for their imaginative arrangements and dynamic pacing. Beyond skill, their playing is playful. After too long an absence, this fabulous band will bring its unique blend of instruments, creativity, and energy to Ithaca for a "Don't miss!" event.

Ann Percival, on dazzling piano, guitar, and vocals, is the essential heartbeat of the band; David Cantieni, woodwind wizard, provides melody and joyous flow with flutes, tin whistle, oboe, saxophone, and bombard. George Marshall, gifted at English concertina, bodhran, and bones, brings drive and does double duty as a suave caller. Becky Tracy, of Nightingale fame, fiddles with a rare match of fire and beauty. Ithaca's own Harry Aceto will build the solid bass foundation for the musical dynamics.

Prices (Hands Four member/nonmember): both sessions $16/20; afternoon only $8/10; evening only $10/12). Join or renew at the dance and receive the discounted admission. Beginners are most welcome: steps are simple and each dance is taught. No need to bring a partner. Please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the floor! For more information, visit www.hands4dancers.org or call 607/539-3174.

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

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[Mike_L]

DANCING AND DESSERT WITH THE CONTRADICTIONS

Contra Dance and Dessert Potluck with The Contradictions
Saturday 2 February 2013, dancing 7:30-11:30 pm; dessert potluck 10:30 pm
CSMA, Community School of Music and Arts, 330 E. State St., Ithaca

A feast of fine music, dancing, and friends, as well as delectable treats, are the allure of this annual event hosted by Hands Four Dancers of Ithaca. Contra dancing (7:30-10:30 pm) will be followed by a dessert potluck and couples dances, including waltzes, swing, schottisches, and hambos, 10:30-11:30 pm. Step lively and you just might balance your caloric intake and output! Music is by the witty, high-energy Contradictions: Laurie Hart on fiddle, Rick Manning on fiddle and mandolin, Tom Hodgson on guitar, Dave Davies on bass, and the sparkling Vikki Armstrong calling. Their irresistible fiddle harmonies and imaginative, hot rhythms will drive winter away, at least for one night. The Contradictions are revered for tight, dynamic, and soulful playing; nary a contradictory note. Their peppy, broad mix of Appalachian and Irish jigs and reels, bluegrass, driving French Canadian tunes, lilting Swedish dances, 1930s and Texas swing, and sophisticated tango-waltzes has brought joy to dancers from the Saratoga Dance Flurry, the Brattleboro Dawn Dance, and Ashokan, to their home in the Finger Lakes. Find out more and hear them in action at http://lauriehartfiddle.com/contradictions.html .

Contra dancing is a more than 300-year-old tradition, a community event at which beginners of all ages are always welcome. A workshop at 7:30 pm will teach the simple steps and moves, each dance is “called,” and experienced dancers are willing to guide. No need to bring a partner. Please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the special Marley dance floor and something yummy to share for the grand dessert finale. Hot beverages and water will be provided. Info: 607-539-3174 or www.hands4dancers.org. Admission: $8 HFDI members; $10 nonmembers.

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

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[Mike_L]

Sixth Fiddlehead Frolic: Moving Violations with Gaye Fifer
Saturday, 27 April 2013, noon to 11 pm
Beverly J. Martin School, 302 W. Buffalo St., Ithaca, NY

Fortunately, March did not present us this year with the 90-degree days that spelled disaster for fruit trees and messed with ecological timetables last year. Still, spring has been slow in coming, and what better way to celebrate it than with nearly 12 hours of dancing among superb, playful musicians and excellent company from near and far? The Sixth Fiddlehead Frolic, sponsored by member-run Hands Four Dancers of Ithaca, features the renowned Moving Violations from Western Massachusetts (we’ve been trying to bring them to Ithaca for years), polished caller Gayle Fife, from Pittsburg by way of Missouri and Virginia, as well as a regional favorite band, Escape, and beloved local callers. Beverly Martin School has locations for simultaneous activities appealing to dancers, jammers, singers, silent auction aficionados, plus an instrumental workshop with Moving Violations and a waltz workshop with Gaye Fifer (her specialty). A waltz jam (open band) with makings for sandwiches kicks off the fun at noon; contra dancing, with Moving Violations and Escape alternating, goes from 1 to 6 pm, ending with the wildly popular contra medley (an ever-evolving non-stop dance with different callers taking turns). A potluck supper (6:15-7:15 pm; bring a generous dish to share!) at the school will supply the needed fuel for the evening session of couples dances taught by Gaye Fifer (7:30-8:00 pm) and contra dancing with the Moving Violations (8:00-11:00 pm).

And who are the Moving Violations? They’re veterans of the Fourgone Conclusions, Swallowtail, Big Bandemonium, and other fine dance bands. For many years, MV have been the backbone of the Greenfield and Amherst contra dances, but now they’re really on the move across the country, where dancers can hear for themselves why Ralph Sweet and Tom Hodgson consider them the consummate contra dance musicians. They made a big splash at the Dance Flurry a few years back, where their diversity of styles and pacing, intricate but always rhythmic and lyrical arrangements, and self-described “affectionate abandon and occasional silliness” won the crowd. The Moving Violations are: Van Kaynor (from the fine line of Kaynor musicians), fiddle and limberjack; Ron Grosslein, fiddle and mandolin; Chuck Corman, bass, guitar, and percussion; and Eric Eid-Reiner, piano. With decades of experience in classical and dance music, they have the skill, energy, and imagination to respect and transmute a wide range of music: Celtic, Swedish, Eastern European, Klezmer, original compositions, Vivaldi, and a few Handel Bars. Their spontaneity also encourages dancers to improvise. Listen for the exquisite double fiddles, traveling harmonic lines, and creative percussion that make them stand-outs.

Guest caller Gaye Fifer has been dancing for 30 years, so she knows how to create and teach dances that will delight dancers of all levels. She has a reputation for clear, concise, and friendly calling. Her forte is instruction in “folk waltzes,” which she has taught for years. She’s committed to the preservation of traditional dance and song as a board member of CDSS. We’re also delighted to bring the decidedly “cool” but accessible Escape to town: Tim Ball on sublime fiddle, Jodi Austin on keys, synthesizer, and cowbell, and Peter Blue on button accordion, nyckelharpa, percussion, and everything else.

This 11-hour festival has something for people of all ages and experience levels. The dance community always welcomes and assists newcomers. Beginners will find that the few simple steps are easy to learn, and that each dance is taught. Please bring (1) clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the dance floor, and (2) food to share at the fabulous potluck supper. You are encouraged to bring your own place settings, but there will be extras on hand.
The cost for both sessions is $24/$30 (member/nonmember), and for either the afternoon or evening session alone, admission is $12/$15. You can join Hands Four when you register early or at the door, for reduced admission to all HFDI dances. Jammers and singers who do not dance or take a workshop are admitted free. For a full schedule and other details, visit www.hands4dancers.org or call 607-539-3174.


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

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