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Close out July with Margaret Mathews calling to the music of Sister Haggis. The infectious joy of these two great friends comes through in their music.

Experience the magic of contra dancing, where all are welcome, and no partner or experience is necessary. Bring your friends, family, and fellow dance enthusiasts for a night of lively music, connection, and community. If you like, come early for an introduction to contra elements at 7:10.

Caller

Margaret Mathews at the microphone

Margaret Mathews

With more than 35 years experience as dancer, musician and caller, Margaret’s easy-going, engaging style gets everyone out on the dance floor. Her ability to smoothly adjust the dances to the experience level of the dance community make it a fun and accessible evening for everyone. In addition to contra dances, she calls for traditional Old Time square dances, Civil War reenactments, hoedowns, weddings and other joy filled occasions. Her dance calling has taken her up and down the East coast, from the Carolinas to Vermont, as well as the Northwest and Canada. When not calling, Margaret plays bass in Wild Root String Band, a Southern Old Time band.

Band

Sister Haggis

Eileen Nicholson Kalfass - fiddle, Jane Knoeck - piano, accordion

Western NY duo Eileen and Jane, are familiar to Rochesterians but also well known traveling musicians who play all over the country. Here they get together as good friends to play the tunes they love and give us a great time. We’ve known Eileen, daughter of long-time Syracuse caller Bob Nicholson, since she was a lass. Now playing nationally as a member of the bands Seaglass and Continental Drift, we always enjoy her lilting fiddle style. Jane is a founding member of The Groovemongers, and Montage, as well as a number of great combinations including Riverbend and New Brew.