Period One | Period Two | Period Three | Period Four | Period Five | Period Six
Period One 9:00 – 10:00a
A. Fun & Zesty Contras (U) Chris Bischoff
New and experienced dancers will find a fun and progressive welcome to contra dancing and learn a variety of figures. The focus will be on dancing with a few style points included along the way. Discover the fun of dancing together with friends & wonderful music.
B. Jubo I (U) Wayne Hankin
If you would like to get started in music and you happen to be an adult, you’ve come to the right place. Jubo introduces you to the basics of music in a simple 4-hole instrument that is easy to learn and enjoyable to play. Individual and group playing are part of the fun. We’ll be focusing on Jubo I and if things go well, move on to Jubo II. Instruments are provided in all sorts of colors. If you aspire to compose your own music for the Jubo, we’ll be offering that as well.
C. Basketry (U) Janet Northern
All the basket classes are geared towards a beginner level but students are encouraged to use their imagination and create their own one of a kind baskets. An egg basket is where the class usually starts but, who knows where we will end up. Join in the fun and make as many baskets as time will allow. $15 material fee paid at class.
D. English Callers Workshop (U) Brad Foster
This workshop will include time for practice teaching and the discussion of topics including dance programming, teaching figures and steps, working with beginners and mixed-experience crowds, working with your band, stage presence and crowd control.
E. Cornshuck Dolls (U) Mary Colmer
This class will teach the basics of this traditional Kentucky craft. You will be helping to keep this craft from becoming lost. Please bring scissors, an old towel (not from the hotel!) that may get dye on it, and a carrying bag with your name on it to store your work. There will be a $10 material cost collected at the first class.
F. Advanced Performance Rapper (A) Bryce and Dana Carlberg
For those who are comfortable with stepping, basic figures, and learning new figures and stepping patterns. We’ll work on bringing the dance to life and focus on performance aspects of Rapper: set cohesion, timing, and melding the dance with the music. Be prepared for a fast-paced class and to dance in different positions.
G. Beginning Recorder (B) Gene Murrow
If you ever wanted to get your basics down, this is a good starting point. Learn the proper techniques to get you started off on the right foot and we’ll explore music you can play right away.
H. Harmony Singing Playground (U) Jacob Chen
Love to sing but not sure how to build a harmony? Want more ideas and tools to add extra color to your harmony lines? This session will explore harmonies from the inside out–singing satisfying, given harmonies and learning methods for finding your own harmonies! All teaching will be by ear, using rounds, drones, common musical patterns, and familiar choruses as the playground to our learning. Rather than chasing a “perfect” harmony, we’ll explore harmony as a process of listening, experimenting, and responding. You’ll learn where your voice fits, try out supportive lines, and grow comfortable making creative choices in the moment. No prior music theory knowledge required–just curiosity, a willingness to sing, and openness to play with your voice!
Period Two 10:15a – 11:15a
A. Advanced English Country Dance (A) Brad Foster
The beauty of English country dance is often in the fine details. We’ll explore a wide variety of historical reconstructions and modern compositions with a focus on the timing and transitions that bring out their beauty.
B. INTRO-MEDIATE Rapper (B/I) Bryce and Dana Carlberg
Rapper sword dancing is a fast-paced, percussive, and challenging dance form from England. Dancers are connected by flexible swards and weave intricate patterns while stepping briskly. Beginners will learn basic stepping and figures, while intermediate dancers will focus on set cohesion and timing. Please bring hard-soled shoes and be prepared for a great workout.
C. Contra Callers Workshop (U) Charley Harvey
Interested in developing more skills and resources as a caller? We will quickly cover the essential skills in calling, programing, beginner workshopping and developing a repertoire. We will explore the development of contemporary Contra dance. We can discuss what dances make for a successful night. How we might size up the crowd. We will workshop effective walk-thrus. We will call and dance, so plan on a good time! Bring your cards, past programs. I am a big fan of Callers Companion for collecting dances and programming. Consider downloading a copy (free for the first 50 dances) at http://callerscompanion.com/index.html
D. Intermediate English Country Dance (I) Gene Murrow
For dancers who are familiar with the basic figures of the English country dance repertoire, the class will “fill in the gaps” as well as advance your knowledge. We’ll survey some of the classics, learn some more complex or new figures, and work on style.
E. Beginning English Country Dance (B) Katy German
This class will be a fun and easy introduction to English Country Dancing. We will learn many basic recurring figures, and steadily build up a repertoire as the week progresses. Beyond mere execution of figures, we will delve into style and technique, and discover how a simple right hand turn can become something magical. Basic waltz will also be taught. Skeptical contra dancers welcome!
F. Cornshuck Dolls (U) Mary Colmer
This class will teach the basics of this traditional Kentucky craft. You will be helping to keep this craft from becoming lost. Please bring scissors, an old towel (not from the hotel!) that may get dye on it, and a carrying bag with your name on it to store your work. There will be a $10 material cost collected at the first class.
Period Three Morning Song
Period Four 1:45p – 2:45p
A. Advanced Temari Craft (A) Eric Crowden
Ready to take temari to another level? You will learn a more complex division of the ball that will lead to even more intricate and fascinating designs. This class is suitable for people who have had the Beginning Temari class at Dance School or who have learned temari basics elsewhere. $15 material fee payable at class (25 person limit for the class)
B. Shape Note Singing (U) Kent Gilbert
Shape note singing is a 4-part unaccompanied tradition accessible to all. Using special “shaped” printed notes, this centuries-old way to sing in community helps both beginners and experts learn new music quickly. Musical knowledge is helpful but not required and beginning singers are especially welcome. The class will use the 4-shape system and will primarily draw from the Sacred Harp hymnal.
C. Kentucky Set Running (U) Jim Napier Stites & Ben Napier
All ages and experience levels will enjoy this class. Dance figures taught will be those included in Kentucky Mountain Square Dancing by Patrick E. Napier. Many of the figures have not changed since the Appalachian Mountains were first settled. Some figures will be familiar to those with experience dancing Appalachian Big Set. Beginners will learn enough figures to dance all night long, and experienced dancers will enjoy dancing to the finest music around!
D. Intro. to Flatfoot Clogging (B) Chris Bischoff
Have fun learning basic freestyle clogging. Steps and styling will be covered, as well as how to accompany old-time tunes. Become part of the music!
E. Basketry (U) Janet Northern
All the basket classes are geared towards a beginner level but students are encouraged to use their imagination and create their own one of a kind baskets. An egg basket is where the class usually starts but, who knows where we will end up. Join in the fun and make as many baskets as time will allow. $15 material fee paid at class.
F. Director’s Picks (U) Theresa Lowder and Jennifer Escobar
We will be dancing some of Theresa’s favorites. Dances will include ‘Double’ Dargason, Weaving, Salty Dog Rag, Heidenroslein, and many more.
Period Five 3:00p – 4:00p
A. Intermediate/Advanced Dance Band (I/A) Jacob Chen
This class will focus mostly on playing for contra dancing, although some skills can be utilized for other dance music. We’ll discuss how music supports the dancers while experimenting with all sorts of ensemble games. We’ll focus on groove, textures, layers, counter-melodies, and active listening across the ensemble. We’ll experiment with doing more with less, giving space to the ensemble, playing with variety, how to make other ensemble members sound good, and more! Prerequisites include proficiency in your instrument, basic knowledge of chord progressions, ability to learn simple melodic lines by ear, and ability to play at dance tempo.
B. Waltz Clog and more! (I) Brittany Hudson-Trent
This session will focus on Waltz Clog, Jump Rope Clog, and Bacca Pipes. If you have some wooden clogs, bring them! We will have a few pairs available, be sure to bring socks!
C. Beginning Dance Band (B) Nathan Wilson
BAM! Does this sound like you? . . . You play an instrument . . . on the sidelines perhaps . . . and you can do some things. You can keep a beat and you can play some chords or tunes . . . or bits of some tunes. Hmmm? Is that you? . . . I knew it. Just do it! . . . JOIN THE BAND! We’ll discuss how the dance band works and how you fit in. We’ll learn some easy tunes and some favorites. All instruments and skill levels are welcome. Proficiency with your instrument is extra helpful. Please contact me with your questions or for more information. Take this class and you’ll have a blast! 100% Guaranteed
D. Basketry (U) Janet Northern
All the basket classes are geared towards a beginner level but students are encouraged to use their imagination and create their own one of a kind baskets. An egg basket is where the class usually starts but, who knows where we will end up. Join in the fun and make as many baskets as time will allow. $15 material fee paid at class.
E. Advanced Contra Dancing (A) Charley Harvey
Dance Weekend material for those that are looking for dances that do not get danced everywhere, all the time. Expect challenging, energetic programming, moves that might take you away from your foursome and return you just in time. Watch out, there might be End Effects!
F. Beginning Temari Craft (B) Eric Crowden
Temari is an ancient Japanese handcraft of first thread-wrapping a ball and then embroidering colorful designs across the surface. On a pre-wrapped base you will learn some basic stitching techniques and different patterns that can open up endless design possibilities. $15 material fee payable at class. (25 person limit for the class)
Period Six 4:15p – 5:15p
A. Mummers Play (U) Sarah Jo Jacobs
Get ready to create, design, and perform in this high-energy Mummers Play class! We’ll explore the basics of acting, dive into the history of mumming, and embrace the spirit of mischief and tom foolery. Along the way, you’ll rehearse what just might be the most thrilling Mummers Play ever staged (who’s to say since we haven’t written it yet). So grab your imagination, hold on to your hats, and get ready to make some theatre magic!
B. Cotswold Morris (U) Joe Wilkie
This class will focus on dances from the rich Cotswold morris traditions that originate in western England. This class is for all levels. Whether you routinely do hook-legs in the grocery checkout line or have just occasionally suspected you’d look cool with bells strapped to your legs, this class should have something fun and interesting to offer.
C. Set Dances of Cork and Kerry (U) Jim Morrison
We will focus on dances from the Sliabh Luachra region of Ireland, on the borderlands of Cork and Kerry. These Irish cousins of American square dances are danced to fast paced polkas and slides along with the occasional hornpipe. No experience is necessary.
D. Intergenerational Dance (U) Hazel Jodock
Come one, come all to the daily dance for all ages! We’ll move in circles, squares, and all kinds of fun shapes. Join us each day — or drop in whenever you like — to dance alongside the littlest dancers of the next generation and celebrate the joy of community dance.
E. Intermediate Recorder (I) Wayne Hankin
A gathering of recorders open to those with playing experience from soprano to bass recorders. Repertory will be focused on an intermediate level. Sacred and secular music are in the forefront. Technique and exercises round out the daily classes. Reading music is required.
F. English Dance (U) Gene Murrow
“Afternoon Pleasures” — accessible, beautiful dances that are among Gene’s favorites drawn from his 60-year involvement with English country dance.