Details
Oliver Scanlon is the fiddler with Alex Fortier on piano; two seasoned contra dance musicians combine for a lively dance in the Rose Room. Our caller is Ithaca’s Nancy Spero.
Starting at 7:30, 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. All dances are taught. An introduction to contra dancing is provided around 7:00.
We have a sliding scale admission policy, with a target of $12. Pay more if you can, less if you can’t – come dance!
Caller
Nancy Spero
Ithaca caller Nancy Spero is especially welcome in Rochester. In addition to being a fine contra dance caller, Nancy is particularly interested in the music and moves of traditional, old-time square dancing and she calls for square dances held several times a year in the greater Ithaca area. On our stage, she is always smiling and moving to the music of the band.
Bands
Oliver Scanlon
Oliver Scanlon (fiddle)
A soulful fiddler, mandolinist and spellbinding tunesmith, Oliver Scanlon co-founded in 2013 Pete’s Posse with Pete Sutherland and Tristan Henderson. Oliver played with Pete’s Posse for hundreds of contradances, concerts and festivals for their nine years as a trio, releasing eight recording projects along the way! Now based in Syracuse, NY, Oliver plays with Stove Dragon and gives music lessons.
Alex Fortier
Alex Louis Fortier has been studying and playing piano in various idioms since the age of 6. His traditional accompaniment stylings range between classic New England style (Bob McQuillen, Gordon Peery), Quebecois style (Mario Loiselle, Rachel Aucoin), and Cape Breton style (Neil Pearlman, Jason Roach, Mac Morin, Troy MacGillivray). With a love of tradition and a penchant for harmonic substitutions and development, he’s sure to keep a dance fresh and energetic!