Where can we dance in Boise?

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What is Contra Dancing?

FUN ! ! ! Contra dancing uses many of the same traditional moves found in square dancing. The last time I counted, there were about 8 basic moves, and maybe 10 advanced moves. A contra-dance evening might also include New England style squares as well as a couple dance or two (such as waltzes, tango and swing, or even hambos, schottish and polkas).

With only a dozen basic moves, learning contra dance is as simple as walking and smiling; Yet the near-infinite arrangements provide challenge and variety for even the most experienced of dancers. Additionally, the caller walks through each dance prior to starting up the music, and then provides helpful prompts while the band is playing.

The live music is primarily Irish or Scottish in origin, with a smattering of southern or bluegrass styles. ContraBand features twin fiddles, penny whistle, bodhran, guitar and piano.

You, the other dancers, the musicians, and the caller aim for an evening of low-pressure, yet energetic, camaraderie. Come alone or with others; we get new partners for each of the dozen or so dances that we do during the evening.

 Other Music and Dance Information

This web site answers the question What is Contra Dance?

The CDSS Home Page  provides information about our National Contra Dance Society Organization.

Planning to travel? Connect with Bob Stein's Contra Dance Web Page or The Dance Gypsy web site to locate USA and Canada Music and Dance Schedules and Festivals, and many other dance topics!

The Spokane Folklore Society are the folks who sponsor the wonderful Lady of the Lake dance camps in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

The Palouse Folklore Society holds contra dances in Moscow, Idaho.

The Utah Dance Page provides information about our neighbors to the south.

The Northeast Oregon Folklore Society in La Grande provides information about our neighbors to the north-west.

Three Rivers Folklife Society in Richland, Washington.

Walla Walla Friends of Acoustic Music in Walla Walla, Washington.

Check out Contracopia, an on-line source for purchasing lots of great contra music.

Wild Asparagus Home Page  They are one of my favorite dance bands.

At the Sounds of JJ Dion, learn more about one of ContraBand's mutli-talented members.  JJ is a composer, musician, recording artist and teacher.

Enjoy Celtic tunes by ContraBand. Visit ContraBand's website to purchase CDs and to learn more about this talented ensemble. Delight your friends and family by scheduling ContraBand to perform at your next function!