Details

Eileen Kalfass and Catherine Sloboda are harmonizing fiddlers with Alex Fortier providing rhythm on pian; three experienced contra dance musicians combine for a lively dance in the Rose Room. Our caller is Rochester’s Evan DeSmitt.

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

Evan De Smitt

One of Rochester’s seasoned callers, Evan brings great timing from his experiences playing saxophone in marching bands. His lovely, clear, resonant voice carries well, and he is very attentive to the dancers.

Bands

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!

Catherine Sloboda

Catherine Sloboda (fiddle)

Catherine’s fiddling is energizing, sensitive, and creates music with that elusive quality of danceability. She also has long experience in playing for dancing; in the early ’90’s, Catherine was a member of the Sloboda family band, Glenrose, who played for many contra and family dances.  She is a member of the ECD bands Bellamira, Quicksilver, and many other combinations of local dance musicians.

Eileen Kalfass

Hailing from Syracuse, Eileen Kalfass is an exceptional fiddler with a wide repertoire, from Quebecois, Irish, Trad New England, and English Country.