I lead dancing for
I have been calling contra dances for many years, bringing energy and enthusiasm to every event. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of calling for all of the regular contra dance series throughout Vermont as well as many others in the neighboring states. My experience includes all kinds of dances. In addition to typical dance series, I regularly call dances at weddings, for school programs, and for various community events. Whether it’s a large, established dance series with lots of dancers or a small gathering in a tiny town, I love them all!
I try to be clear and concise in my calling. My years of classroom experience have helped to hone my teaching skills so I can spend less time instructing and we can spend more time dancing. Whether it is a hall full of experienced dancers eager for a challenge or a roomful of beginners, I can create a program of engaging dances that will keep everyone smiling.
I’ve been dancing and playing music all my life. I currently play fiddle for the contra dance band Red Dog Riley. Because I am both a dance musician and a caller, my calling style is intimately connected to the rhythms and joy of the music.
I would love to share that joy with you!
Click on my schedule to see some of my upcoming gigs and where I have been the last few years.
See some video samples
I don’t have a lot of videos, but here are a couple.
Calling a square dance with the Moon Shells, Cabot, VT 2024
Old video of Don calling the Mad Robin contra dance in Burlington VT, 2017
Square dances
My father was a square dance caller, and I have been dancing square dances for as long as I can remember. I want to share that joy with you!
I have a special love for traditional Southern Appalachian squares. As an avid old-time fiddle and banjo player, that music is part of my everyday life. I mostly use a patter-calling style, where the rhythm of the words complements the driving phrases of the old-time music.
Dances for Weddings and Parties
Contra dance, square dance, barndance or hoedown. Whatever you call it, dancing together is a great way to break the ice and foster meaningful interactions among friends and families. In no time I will have you and your guests tapping your feet and up on the dance floor. I will work with you to plan an evening that everyone will enjoy. No experience is necessary! We can pick dances that are appropriate for all ages, from children to grandparents. These simple and fun dances will allow guests to share the joy of moving together to music with everyone in the group.
Have a contra dance at your wedding reception or rehearsal dinner!
“Everyone enjoyed the dancing”
“It was exactly what we had envisioned for the day.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Dances for Children, Teens, and Communities
Dancing together builds community! I get tremendous joy helping a roomful of beginners start to move together to the music. The palpable joy on dancers’ faces is infectious! I regularly lead dances with groups of all ages. I do programs for elementary school students, teens and summer camps, and adults. I’ve led wheelchair dances in a nursing home and seated square dancing for the elderly. Throughout it all is my belief that everyone can dance. I will get your group moving to the music without having to learn a lot of fancy moves.
I will be happy to lead dances for your group. Contact me and we can discuss options.
“Dancing together is friendship set to music!”