Details
The 2nd Thursday Community Dance for all ages starts at 6:00 downstairs with an all comers band led by Clara and Micah. Margaret teaches fun and accessible dances for all.
The adult multi-generational dance upstairs starts at 7:30 PM, after an introduction to contra at 7:00. Katy Heine calls the dances, with masterful playing by Cattail.
Caller
Katy Heine
Ithaca-based caller Katy Heine has been leading contras and community dances in the Finger Lakes region and beyond for more than 30 years. She’s known for her clear teaching style and for her large repertoire of fun and flowing dances. Whether the hall’s full of experienced dancers or first-timers, they’re sure to have a great time at one of Katy’s dances!
Band
Cattail
Catherine Sloboda (fiddle), Clara Riedlinger (fiddle), Alex Fortier (keyboard)
This is a new (2024) addition to the Rochester lineup of contra dance bands. Catherine Sloboda goes deeply into the contra dance experience from her childhood playing with Glenrose, the Sloboda family band. Her passion for dance music has taken her through classical training, Quebecois traditions, English country dance and more. Clara Riedlinger brings an old-time perspective to the band. She’s played with Clinton’s Folly and hosts a weekly old-time jam. Alex Fortier is a master of multiple styles, from traditional to jazz and alt-rock. He’s taught at Maine Fiddle Camp, and brings a solid rhythmic foundation to the band.