Contra dance for a great cause!

Upper Valley Music Center invites everyone to kick off the school year with a contra dance for a great cause! Join the fun and support access to music education on Saturday, August 22 at Tracy Hall in Norwich, with an all-star line up of callers and musicians including David Millstone, Nils Fredland, Kevin Donohue, Erin Smith, Amy Englesberg, Annie McDougall, and Rose Powell. 

Admission is by donation, and all proceeds will benefit tuition assistance to expand access to music making. Upper Valley Music Center awards $40,000 in tuition assistance annually to help students participate in music programs, which makes a big difference for many families.

“As a community music school, increasing access to music education is a priority for us at Upper Valley Music Center. The Tuition Assistance program is one important way to do that, and we want to keep expanding this program so more people can take advantage of it,” says Erin Smith, Education Director for UVMC and local dance caller, who will be rotating in to call during the dance.

In recent years, Upper Valley Music Center has hosted dances at festivals and local libraries. This upcoming dance builds on these various collaborations, and celebrates a deeply-rooted New England tradition. All are welcome, total beginners and avid dancers alike! All dances will be taught throughout the evening. 

“We’re very fortunate to have two of the best contra dance callers, David Millstone and Nils Fredland, right here in our community,” says Ellie Wasson, UVMC’s Marketing and Development Manager. “This is a great opportunity to start dancing, and for UVMC’s whole community to come together and support a great cause!”

Donations are accepted at the door or online at uvmusic.org. Refreshments and good fun will be provided! Please bring a pair of clean, non-marking shoes to protect the floor, and water bottles are encouraged.