Finger Lakes Public Radio
4:00-6:00 pm for experienced dancers; potluck supper 6:15-7:30 pm; 8:00-11:00 pm dance for all. For the last 15 years, suave New England dance caller and musician George Marshall (of renowned bands Swallowtail and Wild Asparagus) has brought fabulous musicians to Ithaca for Hands Four Dancers’ October double contra dance. This year he's got Maivish, a top-notch New England band featuring Jaige Trudel (fiddle), Adam Broome (guitar, jaw harp), and Matthew Olwell (flute, bodhrán, and percussive dance). Maivish is an old English name for the Song Thrush, and sing they do! Since 2001, Jaige Trudel and Adam Broome have performed together for dances, concerts, and festivals throughout North America and beyond, notably with the band Crowfoot. Along with Matthew Olwell, who’s performed and taught dance and percussion since 1996 at festivals and theaters across North America and Europe, these three consummate musicians create a sound all their own: mercurial, spirited, uplifting, and above all, delightfully danceable. They love and respect traditional music from the British Isles, Ireland and America, but can take it in fresh directions with their inspired interplay. Contra dancing, which had its origins in 17th century English and Scottish dance, with a lively American twist, is a great way to enjoy superb live music, get good exercise, and meet friendly people. The afternoon session is designed to challenge experienced dancers, but the evening session, starting at 7:30 pm with a beginners’ workshop, is the ideal way to give contra a try. George Marshall has a well-deserved reputation for putting beginners at ease, walking them through the simple steps and patterns of each dance before the music begins, and graciously giving them confidence as the evening progresses. All are welcome to a potluck supper at 6:15 pm between the sessions. Bring a generous dish to share; there will be plates, cups, and cutlery, but bring your own if you prefer to reduce waste. There is no need to come with a dance partner, but please bring clean, soft-soled shoes to protect the floor, and comfortable clothes. More info: www.hands4dancers.org or call 607-273-0249.