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 The Dance Database or The Dance Gypsy, web sites 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.

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.