Nils Fredland has been active as a professional musician, dance caller, and choral director for over 20 years.  He draws his material from a large and varied repertoire of dances, ranging from the centuries-old “chestnut” contra dances, to the most cutting-edge contra dance choreography being done today. Also a square dance caller, Nils is well known for breathing new life into traditional singing squares from the mid-twentieth century, and has co-authored and edited two books on the topic for the Country Dance and Song Society (CDSS).

In addition to his work as a dance caller, Nils is a trombonist. Since 2006, he has been resident dance caller and trombone player for two bands, Elixir and Maivish. He also works regularly as a caller and sit-in musician with several other popular contra dance bands

As a dance caller, Nils is known for his expertise, skilled leadership, and community-minded approach. He has traveled coast to coast and overseas to call and play for contra and square dancers.