The Flurry Festival is one of the largest traditional dance and music festivals in North America. It takes place over President's Weekend in February in Saratoga Springs, NY, and typically draws roughly 4,500 attendees and 400 performers.

The Flurry will feature swing, blues, contra, square dancing, Cajun, Zydeco, English country, Balkan, Scandinavian, Latin, Scottish, tango, fusion, international, Irish, balfolk, African, Appalachian, instrument workshops, family programming, jams, storytelling, group singing, concerts and more!

Schedule of Events

February 16, 2024

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
A Tour Through Eastern Europe Through Dance (IM)
Parting Glass
Join hands as we come together to enjoy moving to the myriad dance and music traditions from Eastern Europe, including Bulgarian, Serbia, Greece, Romania, and Croatia.
- Marcie Van Cleave

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Bare Bones Dance Music (IM)
Hilton Travers
How to pick and arrange tunes to adapt to a challenging dance, such as new dancers, new musicians, background noise, or a power failure. We'll discuss band composition, melody and rhythm styles, and how to keep the music understandable and friendly.
- Eric Buddington

7:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Barn Dance Social! (DB)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Fun, simple dances that have been passed down through the generations. The root of contras and squares before complexity became prevalent. Emphasis is on COMMUNITY. These are the kinder/gentler versions of the modern-day contra and square dance, but still rip-roaring fun! Suitable for all ages: children, elderly, and the slower moving.
- Paul Rosenberg, Tamarack
Paul Rosenberg, Patricia Kernan, Jim Mead, Sue Mead

7:00 PM - 7:45 PM
Drop-In Swing Dance Crash Course (IB)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Learn the basics of swing to get yourself moving to big band jazz, trad jazz and more. This class will be a fun, fast-paced class that includes footwork, partnering, and moves that define the genre.
- AJ Howard

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Flatfooting Basics (IB)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
This beginner-intermediate class will cover the basics of the Tennessee walking step, and we will learn fun rhythmic variations and flourishes to begin to improvise with our feet. We will also talk about ways to flatfoot while being gentle to our joints, in a low impact style. Leather soled shoes are ideal, or any hard soled shoe. Try to avoid soft rubber (ie sneakers).
- Nicole Ball

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Funny Songs and Sing Alongs (EGFT)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Family songs that get participants to laugh, guffaw, gesture and sing out loud. Some selections are old campfire favorites and others will be lesser-known humorous ditties.
- John, Trish & Joel
John Kirk, Trish Miller, Joel Rosenberger

7:00 PM - 7:45 PM
Latin Party Dances: Basic Merengue, Bachata, Salsa (IB)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Make the most out of any dance party with Latin music by shimmying and shaking on the dance floor with some fancy footwork. Amanda will guide you through the basics of Salsa, Bachata and Merengue so you can strut your stuff on the dance floor!
- AC Dance/Metamovements
Jonathan Cabrera, Amanda Cardona

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Old-time English Sequence Dances (DM)
Saratoga Music Hall
By "Sequence Dance," we mean a short sequence of dance moves (usually 16 bars) done by couples in unison and repeated for the duration of the music. Dance styles vary and include waltz, two-step, fox-trot, one-step and tango. We will teach some delightful early 20th century sequences from England and America. Some may involve a change of partners.
- Tim Lamm, Diane Gonzales

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Pan Celtic Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Common tunes from Quebec, Ireland, Scotland, Brittany and elsewhere.
- Cedar Stanistreet, Sam Bartlett

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Welcome Contras (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Starting the Flurry weekend off right with Welcoming Contras for you.
- Adina Gordon, Countercurrent
Adina Gordon, Brian Lindsay, Alex Sturbaum

7:45 PM - 9:15 PM
Night Swing ft. Gordon Webster & Hannah Gill (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Jonathan Greene and the Grand Boubousse get things started! Featuring Gordon Webster and vocalist, Hannah Gill, this will be a set of 20s and 30s early jazz and swing.
- Jonathan Greene and the Grand Boubousse, Gordon Webster
Jonathan Greene, Hannah Gill, Jay Lepley, Dylan Perrillo, Nick Russo, Gordon Webster, Gordon Webster

7:45 PM - 9:15 PM
Salsa! (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
A spicy mix of Cuban and Latin dance grooves!
- Alex Gonzalez Quartet
Alex Gonzalez, Andy Hearn, Ian Mcdonald, Tarik Shah

8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Sing-around Song Swap (GM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Join in singing and harmonizing on songs and vocal selections that create a community chorus.
- John, Trish & Joel, Hubby Jenkins, Brendan Taaffe
John Kirk, Trish Miller, Joel Rosenberger, Hubby Jenkins, Brendan Taaffe

8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Lively English dances (DM)
Saratoga Music Hall
High-energy traditional English dances.
- Gene Murrow, Constellation
Gene Murrow, Rachel Bell, Susan Kevra, Jacqueline Schwab

8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Songs and Stories of the Dawnland (E)
Hilton Travers
Traditional stories told in English and Abenaki accompanied by drum and flute songs.
- Joe and Jesse
Jesse Bruchac, Joseph Bruchac

8:15 PM - 9:15 PM
Set Dancing: Reels and Hornpipes (The Merchant Set) (DM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Irish set dancing is an upbeat, lively form of social dance, in squares of four couples. There is an equal emphasis on both the movement patterns and the rhythmic footwork, making it a physical and aural experience! In this session we'll look at reels and hornpipes, with their lovely swing and space. We'll warm-up with basic reel/hornpipe footwork, and then learn and dance figures from the popular Merchant Set. Throughout, the emphasis will be on community and joy in moving together!
- Jackie O'Riley, Toss the Feathers
Jackie O'Riley, David Pease, Amy Schoch, Dave Smith, Don Meade

8:15 PM - 9:15 PM
Waltz Book Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Music jam from the popular Waltz Books. Fun, no-stress, easy tempos.
- Spare Parts
Eric Buddington, Bill Matthiesen, Liz Stell

8:15 PM - 9:30 PM
Zabava: A Dance Party (DM)
Parting Glass
Let's Party! with "basic" Balkan dances. It's easy, it's fun, and the music is magical. A great way to kick off the weekend.
- Stephen Kotansky, Balkan Fields Band
Stephen Kotansky, Dean Brown, Melinda Fields, Mel Fitzhugh, Henry Goldberg, Melinda Hunt, Ralph Iverson

8:30 PM - 9:45 PM
Romantic Couple Dances (NM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Luscious waltzes, swinging jazz standards, country and Cajun two-steps, and maybe even a tango or two, played from the heart for your romantic dancing pleasure.
- Jay Ungar & Molly Mason, Harry Aceto, Peter Davis
Molly Mason, Jay Ungar, Harry Aceto, Peter Davis

8:45 PM - 10:15 PM
Go With the Flow Contras (DS)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Where the flow between the figures gives a whole greater than the sum of the parts.
- Bob Isaacs, Engine Room
Bob Isaacs, Alex Sturbaum, Noah VanNorstrand, Kelsey Wells

9:15 PM - 10:00 PM
Turkish Oryantal Bellydance (IM)
Hilton Travers
This workshop will introduce essential bellydance technique in the fiery style of Turkish Oryantl. Isolations of the hips and torso, traveling steps, turns and dramatic arm patterns will be set in short combinations to an energetic Turkish song.
- Elizabeth Mariyah

9:30 PM - 12:30 AM
Night Swing & Blues Party (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Swingin' and bluesy tunes from Joshua Fialkoff and the Oddfellows for your dancing pleasure.
- Joshua Fialkoff and the Oddfellows
Joshua Fialkoff, Shawn Hershey, Alex Maio, Bryan Brundige, Dylan Perrillo

9:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Let's Zydeco! (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Zydeco is a distinct dance, with its own steps and groove, done to music that is an irresistible blend of Cajun, Louisiana Creole, R&B and Blues influences. Deceptive in its simplicity, it is a joy to master the unique feel of this dance. We'll drill the basic step while learning open and closed position dancing.
- Erica Weiss

9:30 PM - 12:00 AM
Open Jamming (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Open jam time for any Flurry musician (performer, attendee, etc.). Please be welcoming to those who wish to play.
- Flurry Jammers
Various Festival Musicians

9:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Ragtime Tango is Alive and Well (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Tango originated in Argentina around 1900 and quickly spread to Europe and America in 1910s. Dancers from various countries made the dance their own. Compared to modern Argentine tango and Ballroom tango, this early form of tango is easy to learn. But it's fun to do! We teach the basic steps and a handful of useful variations that you can do to various types of tango music.
- Tim Lamm, Diane Gonzales, Spare Parts
Tim Lamm, Diane Gonzales, Eric Buddington, Bill Matthiesen, Liz Stell

10:00 PM - 11:15 PM
Learn to Country Line Dance (IM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Country Line dance is not just country. Newand current dances will be taught in a fun atmosphere to a variety of music genres. This popular class is fun for everyone.
- Sue Kaupelis

10:15 PM - 11:15 PM
Hot Squares (DS)
Saratoga Music Hall
For folks who know the basics of square dancing and want to have a blast with satisfying patterns. Square 'em up!
- Lisa Greenleaf, Supertrad
Lisa Greenleaf, Sam Bartlett, Dave Langford, Eric Schedler

10:30 PM - 11:45 PM
Late Night Tango (NS)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
A mix of traditional Argentine tangos, milongas and tango waltzes.
- Spare Parts
Eric Buddington, Bill Matthiesen, Liz Stell

10:30 PM - 12:00 AM
Magic in Motion: Late Night Contras (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Connection, communication, and choreography collide in a magical experience of movement set to music. It's a dance after dark that's not to be missed!
- Liz Nelson, River Road
Liz Nelson, Jesse Ball, Kristen Planeaux, Sarah-Hadley Yakir

10:30 PM - 12:30 AM
Zydeco Dance (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Get into the Zydeco groove!
- ZydeGroove
Alan Bradbury, Doug Chatman, Laren Droll, Gary Graef, Maggie McManus, Roger Weiss

12:30 AM - 1:45 AM
DJ Late Night Multi-Style (Fusion) Dance (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Welcome to a new space for Flurry that gives dancers an opportunity to explore a variety of music genres in order to help tap into multitude of dance backgrounds that the community has. Many in the dance community have been craving a creative partner dancing space so get ready to fuse your dancing with your partner to create something new!
- Emiliano Estevez
DJ Darkstar

February 17, 2024

8:45 AM - 9:45 AM
Storytelling & Singing Games For All (EF)
Hilton Travers
Traditional folktales & singing games, and singing games introduced with stories.
- Peter & Mary Alice Amidon
Mary Alice Amidon, Peter Amidon

9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Improv & Movement Games (8 and up) (GFT)
Hilton Whitney
Fun improv and movement games for kids and teens (suggested for ages 8 and up). No experience needed.
- Maya and Nadia
Maya Love, Nadia Tell

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Vinyasa Yoga (IM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
A light-hearted routine that will focus on stretching and strengthening the legs to keep you fresh for a day of dancing. The routine will be appropriate for beginners and challenges will be offered for the more practiced yogis as well. Expect a fun routine that will leave you feeling great. Yoga session will be on carpet. Bring your own mat.
- Jason Pew

9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
I Lift My Lamp: Illuminations from Immigrant America (E)
Hilton Pavilion
Pianist Jacqueline Schwab features vintage American songs and dance tunes from immigrants. Out of Jacqueline's Pittsburgh folkdance childhood and later travels, she will perform music from Ireland, Scotland, Finland, Sweden, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Italy, the Caribbean, and Brazil, plus American ragtime and spirituals.
- Jacqueline Schwab

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Banjo Styles (PG)
Hilton Travers
Join some of our featured Flurry musicians to explore various banjo styles. Bring your banjo or come and listen.
- Bill Vanaver, Hubby Jenkins, Sam Bartlett, Brendan Taaffe

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Clogging (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
This beginner-intermediate class will cover basics of Appalachian clogging, and a variety of traditional and fancy steps to pull out at your next barn dance. We will learn a short choreography just for fun. Tap shoes are ideal, but leather or hard soled shoes will work well, too.
- Nicole Ball

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Fundamentals of Traditional Turning (Rotary) Waltz (IS)
Saratoga Music Hall
This session is an introduction to traditional right-turning or "rotary" waltz, as done at contra dances, English county dances, weddings, and various other occasions. We teach the basic turning step in a natural way but emphasize good technique, which lets the step travel easily around the room.
- Tim Lamm, Diane Gonzales

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Introduction to English (DB)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Learn the basics and the joy of English country dancing with a variety of elegant and lively dances, both new and old, taught by an instructor with over 25 years of experience.
- Gene Murrow, Spare Parts
Gene Murrow, Eric Buddington, Bill Matthiesen, Liz Stell

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Learn a Beautiful Scottish Air (IS)
Hilton Alabama
Slow airs are like pensive "songs without words" in the Celtic traditions. We'll learn one and how to make it "sing." Any non-percussion instruments welcome.
- George Wilson

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Linda's Legacy (Contra) (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Linda Leslie was a role model for all about what good dancing and community building could be and should be. Her warm, welcoming presence and easy smile lit up every room she was in and provided positive experiences in her own special way. This session is a collection of dances she wrote, with some anecdotes and fun facts in her own words.
- Liz Nelson, Engine Room
Liz Nelson, Alex Sturbaum, Noah VanNorstrand, Kelsey Wells

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Practice Lab: Get Better Results (IM)
Hilton Whitney
(All instruments.) No matter where you are on your musical path - beginner or pro - your creative output will hinge on your knack for carving out practice time and using it productively. This session is intended for all musicians regardless of level or instrument. We will look at how to structure time in the practice room and discuss research-based strategies for learning new material in a deeper, more efficient manner, improving memorization, and performing more confidently. We'll talk about 'Deliberate practice', 'variable' and inter-leaved' practices, the importance of goal setting and strategies for creating practice habits that stick. We'll learn a variety of 'practice hacks' to help speed up the learning process, and even things that we can do away from our instruments that will help to keep us moving forward.
- Wayne Fugate

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Rhythm Variations (IM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Rhythm and improvisation drive creative expression in Lindy hop. In this class, we'll look at unique rhythmic variations and see how they fit in basic moves. Students are encouraged to shape their own ideas and play with rhythm.
- Gaby Cook

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Two-Hand & Ceili Dances (IMFT)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Families and dancers of all ages are welcome to join us for fun and approachable Irish social dances. Céilí and two-hand dances have lovely shapes and patterns with simple footwork, making them great for parents and children. All dances will be taught, and the emphasis will be on feeling the joy of movement together! Please make sure children are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Jackie O'Riley, Toss the Feathers
Jackie O'Riley, David Pease, Amy Schoch, Dave Smith, Don Meade

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Wizard of Oz Puppet Show (EF)
Hilton Broadway 4
Join The Puppet People as they follow the "Yellow Brick Road" to the Emerald City and beyond in the magical land of Oz, bringing to life this literary classic! See Dorothy, The Scarecrow, The Tinman and The Cowardly Lion learn about home, courage, heart and smarts! This puppet fantasy features marionettes, shadow puppets, rod puppets, a large parade puppet and more! Great for ages 5 and up.
- The Puppet People
Mark Carrigan, Michelle Carrigan

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Culture Talk: Balkan Dance (Past & Present) (CP)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
What are the Balkans? Who are its inhabitants? Why is music and dance so important to them and so alluring to us "non ethnics"?
- Stephen Kotansky

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cape Breton Jam Session (G)
Hilton Pavilion
Calling all musicians.... Come experience some East coast flavour and join in on a packed hour of tunes from Cape Breton Island. This is a fun session for all levels of musicians.
- Emily Addison, George Wilson

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Intro to Manouche Rhythm Guitar (IBS)
Hilton Alabama
We will focus on the basic concepts and techniques of Hot Club "La Pompe" style, including 3-note chord voicings, getting "the sound," right- and left-hand coordination, relaxation, stamina, and consistency.
- Harry Aceto

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Rise and Swing (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Get your blood pumping for this early swing party. Kick off right! All-star special guests: vocalist Kim Hawkey, trombonist and vocalist Dan Gabel and tap dancer, Demi Remick.
- Jonathan Greene and the Grand Boubousse, Gordon Webster
Jonathan Greene, Georgia Heers, Jay Lepley, Dylan Perrillo, Nick Russo, Gordon Webster, Gordon Webster

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rod Puppet Workshop (Ages 6-10) (IF)
Hilton Broadway 4
(Geared for ages 6-10) Join The Puppet People and make your own "Rod Puppet." This hour-long workshop shows you step by step on how to make a puppet. The Puppet People bring all the supplies, you bring your imagination. Come have fun with The Puppet People!
- The Puppet People
Mark Carrigan, Michelle Carrigan

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Waltzes and more! (NB)
Saratoga Music Hall
Come join us for an hour of couple dancing. No teaching, just an hour of uninterrupted glorious music.
- Constellation
Rachel Bell, Susan Kevra, Jacqueline Schwab

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Annie & the Hedonists Concert (E)
Parting Glass
Annie & the Hedonists perform a mix of old-time blues and jazz from the great female performers of the early 20th century such as Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday, as well as labor songs about social justice from Hazel Dickens and Utah Phillips to name a few.
- Annie And The Hedonists
Peter Davis, Jerry Marotta, Annie Rosen, Jonny Rosen, Don Young

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Bass Runs for Guitar (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Tools for crafting a simple bass line for Old-Time music and song accompaniment, including 2-3 note runs between chords, using "alternate alternates" for a simple pleasing line, "running in place" on one chord, and more. We'll explore how to find and choose notes, time the runs, and build bass lines for commonly known tunes in different keys.
- Erica Weiss

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Intro to Irish Step-Dance (IBFT)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Alongside the realm of Riverdance and competitive step dancing, there is a thriving community of dancers who practice old-style or traditional step dancing. Old-style step is closely connected to the music and has a simple, elegant beauty that accommodates dancers of all ages. We'll work on some beginning jig steps, and talk about the history of this form.
- Jackie O'Riley, Toss the Feathers
Jackie O'Riley, David Pease, Amy Schoch, Dave Smith, Don Meade

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Music of Pete & Woody (E)
Hilton Travers
Sing along, bring your audience participation as we honor Pete and Woody with their songs that honor Workers, the Environment, human rights, peace and children.
- The Vanaver Caravan, Chelsea Needham
Amadou Diallo, Livia Drapkin Vanaver, Mark Murphy, Toby Stover, Bill Vanaver, Chelsea Needham

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
One for All and All for International Folk Dance! (IM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
A smorgasbord of sound and movement through dance from countries around the world!
- Marcie Van Cleave

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Scottish Country Dance 101 (IB)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Introduction to the steps and figures that form the basis of Scottish Country dancing.
- Lois New, Scottish Country Dancers, Peter Macfarlane, Beth Murray
Lois New, Christopher Anagnostakis, Barbara Bemis, Samuel Bemis, Dale Birdsall, Polly Birdsall, Lachlann Bisaillion, Alex Bowers, William Brearley, David Grubb, Sally Grubb, Madeleine King, Charles Liu, Linda Moss, Lois New, Ted Randolph, Lorraine Reidel, Katie Sanger, Jim Savitt, Joan Savitt, Nadia Tell, Anita Wasson, David Wasson, Peter Macfarlane, Beth Murray

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
African Choral Traditions (GM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Brendan will share choral songs gathered from two months of intensive study in Zimbabwe and a recent trip to Ghana. Joyous, uplifting music. All parts taught by ear; no experience necessary.
- Brendan Taaffe

11:45 AM - 1:00 PM
Groundhog Day Contras (DSX)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Expect six more weeks of winter, because you'll see your shadow -- a lot!
- Adina Gordon, Supertrad
Adina Gordon, Sam Bartlett, Dave Langford, Eric Schedler

12:15 PM - 1:30 PM
Alexander Technique for Musicians and Dancers (IM)
Hilton Alabama
Learn to recognize unnecessary tension in your body. Discover new ways of doing what you love to do so you can dance and play with ease!
- Beth Robinson, Merlin Wisswaesser

12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
Contra Tune Jam! (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Join Noah and Kelsey for a time of contra tune favorites. Bring your instruments!
- Noah VanNorstrand, Kelsey Wells

12:15 PM - 1:30 PM
Schottis & Snoa: Secrets of Pivoting (IM)
Saratoga Music Hall
Learn fundamental skills, invisible to the untrained eye, for Scandinavian and other couple turning dances. Apply them to the classic Swedish dances schottis and snoa, while dancing to great live music.
- lydia ievins, Laura Stern & Tom Roby
lydia ievins, Tom Roby, Laura Stern

12:15 PM - 1:15 PM
The Big Woods: Adirondack Stories (E)
Hilton Broadway 3/4
A program of traditional songs, tall tales, and true stories from the Adirondacks offered by Joe and Jim Bruchac, father and son members of the Adirondack Liars Club.
- Jim Bruchac, Joseph Bruchac

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
ABC's – Absolute Beginner Contras (DB)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Discover the joy of Contra Dancing. The steps are simple, the community is welcoming and the music is delightful. Try it, you'll like it! Experienced dancers welcome to help those who are new.
- Casey Carr, George Wilson

12:30 PM - 12:55 PM
Classic American Cabaret Bellydance (E)
Parting Glass
Classic American cabaret bellydance was born in in the 1950s and 60s in the Middle Eastern nightclubs of NYC, where muscians and audiences from Turkey, Greece, Egypt, Armenia and more gathered and performed. The dance, highly influenced by Turkish Oryantal, developed and adapted to reflect the multi-cultural environment of the music and audiences, combining traditional, cabaret and folkloric components. Mariyah will perform a classic 5-part show that represents these elements.
- Elizabeth Mariyah

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Family Dance: Dance the World Around (DMF)
Hilton Travers
Fun - and some silly - American and multicultural dances and singing games especially suitable for children (ages 3 to 10) and their parental units to dance together
- Paul Rosenberg, Tamarack
Paul Rosenberg, Patricia Kernan, Jim Mead, Sue Mead

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Salsa Sampler! (IB)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Salsa dancing is a global phenomenon and is danced in many different ways depending on what part of the world you find yourself! In this session, we'll go through some of the basics of Salsa on 1 timing, footwork and partnerwork. Then, take your moves from the class direct to the dancefloor!
- AC Dance/Metamovements
Amanda Cardona, Jonathan Cabrera

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
Tin Pan Alley to Broadway (P)
Hilton Whitney
A lecture and demonstration of the evolution of American Popular Song. Bandleader Dan Gabel and vocalist Kimberly Hawkey tell the stories behind the songs and bring to life the greatest voices of swing, jazz and big band music.
- Dan Gabel & Kimberly Hawkey
Dan Gabel, Kimberly Hawkey

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
Up Your Contra Game (ISX)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Experienced dancers get tips and tricks, advanced moves/flourishes, and can ask questions.
- Bob Isaacs, Ambassadors
Bob Isaacs, Tory Brillart, Jon Brillhart , Maeve Fairfax, Nolan Rogers, Mark Sustic

12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
Connection Clinic (IM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Get into the nitty gritty of connection. Learn key connection concepts like frame, weight sharing and counterbalance. These skills inspire amazing connection, in swing as well as other collaborative partner dances.
- Gaby Cook & AJ Howard
Gaby Cook, AJ Howard

12:45 PM - 2:15 PM
Round Singing (GMFT)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Participatory workshop for all levels, singing rounds. We will lead some, and then invite participants to lead a round.
- The Storycrafters
Jeri Burns, Barry Marshall, Zachary Marshall, Summer Bugbee

1:15 PM - 2:15 PM
A Taste of Scotland (E)
Parting Glass
Take a wander through the peat bogs and the heather to experience the diversity of tunes from the Scottish fiddle tradition. Peter Macfarlane on fiddle, accompanied by Beth Murray on piano, will immerse you in a mix of traditional and original tunes, as well as some from the great composers through the centuries.
- Beth Murray, Peter Macfarlane
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Helping Hands (Four) (DM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Experienced dancers come partner with new(er) dancers and help them learn!
- Casey Carr, Ambassadors
Casey Carr, Tory Brillart, Jon Brillhart , Maeve Fairfax, Nolan Rogers, Mark Sustic

1:15 PM - 2:30 PM
New Contras (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Novel contra dances, written in the last year.
- Isaac Banner, River Road
Isaac Banner, Jesse Ball, Kristen Planeaux, Sarah-Hadley Yakir

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Bow the Floor: Intro to Percussive Dance (IB)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
This hands-on (feet-on!) workshop for beginner dancers ages 12+ will introduce you to some foot gestures that you can use to play fiddle tunes with your feet. Drawing from clog and step dance styles from Ireland, Scotland, England, Canada, and Appalachia, Nic and Alexis will share the building blocks of many of these movement traditions as they relate to fiddling traditions with the bow as the guide for our movement. Wear smooth-soled comfortable shoes with a low or no heel for this class.
- Nic Gareiss, Alexis Chartrand

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Cuban Dance (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
The Alex Gonzalez Quartet serves up a spicy mix of Cuban and latin dance grooves.
- Alex Gonzalez Quartet
Alex Gonzalez, Andy Hearn, Ian Mcdonald, Tarik Shah

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Demystifying the Circle of Fifths (IM)
Hilton Broadway 4
The Circle of Fifths is a mystery to many. But what if you found everything you ever needed to know and learn about musical pitch (every note, scale, chord, progressions, etc.) in a simple diagram that could fit in the palm of your hand? The Circle of Fifths is that magical musical master tool. This learning device has endured for hundreds of years since its invention, and for good reason; there's no need to reinvent the wheel. Or, apparently, any other circular entity. This incredibly powerful tool will take you far beyond simply understanding music theory – it will help you write music, predict chords in a progression, and understand relationships between major and minor keys. It will serve you well, regardless of the type of music you play.
- Wayne Fugate

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Learn Irish Tunes By Ear (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Groovy Irish tunes you can learn in 5 minutes. We will smash through a load of really fun and catchy tunes you've probably never heard before, but which will stick in your head for your whole drive home. Learning entirely by ear.
- Eric Schedler

1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Quebecois Tune Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Open jam. Bring your instruments and join in a traditional Quebecois tune session.
- George Wilson, Emily Addison

1:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Bon Voyage!: English Country Dance Trips on the Dance Floor (DS)
Saratoga Music Hall
The English Dance repertoire is filled with dances referencing trips and travel, evoking far off and familiar places. In this workshop, we'll explore these dances, some familiar and others more exotic and consider how to make these trips up and down the set most enjoyable.
- Susan Kevra, Jacqueline Schwab and Dave Langford
Susan Kevra, Dave Langford, Jacqueline Schwab

1:45 PM - 2:45 PM
Stuntology (IMF)
Hilton Travers
Come learn a few stupid tricks from Sam that will alter your mind, train your body and change your life!
- Sam Bartlett

1:45 PM - 2:45 PM
Vintage Jazz Vocal Workshop (IM)
Hilton Alabama
Want to croon like a 1940s pop star? We'll break down the tricks behind the greatest jazz vocals of all time. Learn to capture the rhythm, phrasing, tone, and feel of an authentic vintage style while expressing your individuality. All levels welcome!
- Dan Gabel & Kimberly Hawkey
Dan Gabel, Kimberly Hawkey

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Swing with Gordon (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Drawing on influences as diverse as Fats Waller, Count Basie, Oscar Peterson and Gene Harris, Webster serves up a smorgasbord of styles unified by one characteristic: irresistible danceability.
- Gordon Webster Band
Jay Lepley, Dylan Perillo, Gordon Webster

2:15 PM - 3:45 PM
Sizzling Squares (DM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Everything from Southern squares, 1950s classics, and modern marvels to explore the joys of groups of eight. Note to contra diehards; squares are fun!
- Bob Isaacs, Hubby Jenkins, Noah VanNorstrand, Kelsey Wells

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Countercurrent in Concert (E)
Parting Glass
Pacific Northwest duo Countercurrent is well-known as a concert act as well as a dance band! Expect lively tunes, soulful songs, and a few surprises.
- Countercurrent
Brian Lindsay, Alex Sturbaum

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Songs in Languages Other than English (GM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Chantez-y! Cantar! Seinn-o! Let's see how many different languages we can sing in among the company. Session is a singaround open to all who will.
- Lynn Noel

2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Chord Basics for Mandolin (IBS)
Hilton Whitney
Never rely on chord diagrams again! In this class, aimed at beginning mandolin students, we will cover basic harmonic theory intended to wean folks away from a reliance on chord books and diagrams and empower them with the knowledge required to confidentially find multiple ways of playing virtually any chord needed for virtually any tune likely to be encountered in Western music. A lofty goal? Perhaps ... but well within the grasp of anyone who attends this session.
- Wayne Fugate

2:45 PM - 3:30 PM
Classic Egyptian Bellydance (IM)
Hilton Broadway 4
This workshop will introduce basic bellydance technique such as circles and figure 8s, with styling of the hands and arms inspired by the elegant golden era dancers of Egyptian cinema. Movements will be put together in short combinations to a classic Egyptian song.
- Elizabeth Mariyah

2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Czech It Out! (IM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Circle and couple dances from the heart of Europe.
- Marcie Van Cleave

2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Easy Contras for All (DM) (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Energetic contras with great flow for all experience levels. Increase your fun, fitness, and friendships. Research has proven that "contra dancing leads to lasting physical and mental health." For Beginners through experienced dancers.
- Casey Carr, Jay Ungar & Molly Mason, Harry Aceto, Peter Davis
Casey Carr, Molly Mason, Jay Ungar, Harry Aceto, Peter Davis

2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Easy Fiddle Tunes Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Old-time, New England, Celtic and more tunes with the leaders announcing the key and the title. Participants can join them and play along. All are welcome.
- John, Trish & Joel
John Kirk, Katie Martucci, Trish Miller, Joel Rosenberger

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Crankie Show (EF)
Hilton Travers
Crankies—scrolling illustrations in a puppet theater box—are a completely transporting entertainment. Come enjoy the magic of crankies and traditional American ballads.
- Brendan Taaffe

3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
Learn a Tune (IM)
Hilton Alabama
This session is geared towards fiddle/string players (but all instruments are welcome). Fiddlers will be encouraged to cross tune their instruments, and we will learn an Old Time fiddle tune.
- Chelsea Needham

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
The Heart of Cajun Dance (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Cajun social dancing, a mix of two-steps and waltzes, is part of a cultural celebration that includes live music, food, friends, family and more. Come learn all you need to know about steps and style to "pass a good time" at a Louisiana Fais Do Do!
- Erica Weiss

3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
Balkan Singalong (GM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Led by Henry Goldberg and accompanied by instrumentalists from Balkan Fields. Community-style singalong, with well-loved favorite songs from the Balkans.
- Balkan Fields Band
Dean Brown, Melinda Fields, Mel Fitzhugh, Henry Goldberg, Melinda Hunt, Ralph Iverson

3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
Dances of the Ragtime Period (P)
Hilton Broadway 3/4
We present an assortment of couple dances from the early 1900s in period costume, with commentary on the historical context and ballroom manners. Dances include two-step, turkey trot, Castle walk, hesitation waltz, tango, and maxixe.
- Tim Lamm, Martha Griffin

3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
Learn the Shim Sham! (IM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Learn the tap dance national anthem!
- Demi Remick

3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
Nic Gareiss and Alexis Chartrand Concert (E)
Parting Glass
Fiddler Alexis Chartrand and percussive dancer Nic Gareiss perform a set of new duo pieces exploring space, time, and texture in traditional music and percussive dance. Alexis and Nic create sound and movement at the nexus of sight, sound, and touch, puckishly exploring what fiddling and step dancing reveal about both predetermined and extemporaneous collaboration. By engaging mimetically: fiddle, fiddler, and fiddling, dance, dancer, and dancing, the duo reimagines the embodied symbiosis of traditional music and dance via historic repertoire and new encounter through the mediums of sound and gesture.
- Alexis Chartrand, Nic Gareiss

3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
Waltz Break (NM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
The time between contras is for waltzing!
- Jay Ungar & Molly Mason, Harry Aceto, Peter Davis
Molly Mason, Jay Ungar, Harry Aceto, Peter Davis

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Fiddling with Jigs (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Jigs, perhaps more than other rhythms, suffer from being read from the page. A literal interpretation of the notation misses all of the nuance of the rhythm, which traditionally was passed on in an aural tradition. This workshop will analyze the essence and subtleties of jig rhythm, focusing on how to achieve them on the fiddle, although all instruments are welcome. The objective is to make your jigs dance off the page and sound, well, jiggy. Most will be by ear, but notes will be available, if needed.
- Peter Macfarlane

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Learn a Morris Dance! (IM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Learn the basic stepping, figures, and chorus for a traditional Cotswold or Border Morris dance, with live music
- Pokingbrook Morris
Clare Anderson, Anne Ashmead, David Barnert, Sam Bemis, Pam Bentien, Bill Bracken, Chris Brooks, Sue Cerniglia, Joyce Cockerham, Ned Depew, Lawrence Eger, Fred Henson, Doug Morrison, Don Oliver, Tricia Oliver, Ruth Olmsted, Jeff Ostertag, Bev Seinberg, Elizabeth Stehl, Larry Syzdek, Julian Tell, Nadia Tell, Marilee Urbanczyk, Bob Weissberg

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Scandi Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Come and request your favorite Swedish tunes to play or listen to. You may learn some new favorites as well.
- lydia ievins

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
West African Drumming Music from Guiena (IMT)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Come experience West African drumming with one of the most prominent ambassadors and distinguished instructors of Guinean drum and dance. For all ages and abilities.
- M'Bemba Bangoura, Earthbeat Music
M'Bemba Bangoura, Chelsie Henderson, Abdul Samassa, Wayne White, Adam Witt

4:15 PM - 5:45 PM
Cajun Dance (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Come dance to music that is close to its Creole and Cajun roots.
- Bunkhouse Boys
Alan Bradbury, Doug Chatman, Laren Droll, Gary Graef, Maggie McManus, Roger Weiss

4:15 PM - 5:45 PM
Dance Around the World (E)
Saratoga Music Hall
Performance of global dance from several performing groups at the Flurry.
- Gaby Cook & AJ Howard, John, Trish & Joel, Demi Remick, Jackie O'Riley, Elizabeth Mariyah, Nic Gareiss, Chelsea Needham, Toss the Feathers, The Vanaver Caravan
Gaby Cook, AJ Howard, John Kirk, Trish Miller, Joel Rosenberger, Tony Kieraldo, Demi Remick, Jackie O'Riley, Elizabeth Mariyah, Alexis Chartrand, Nic Gareiss, Chelsea Needham, Don Meade, David Pease, Amy Schoch, Dave Smith, Aliyah Barritt, Alison Chen, Alice Chiu, Camilas Cifuente, Isabel Cottingham, Amadou Diallo, Nafi Diedhiou, Zoza Rose Doherty, Livia Drapkin Vanaver, Carol Du, Stella May Emerson, Talia Grossman, Gwyneth Larsen, Brian Lawton, Kyan Malone, Mark Murphy, Rafal Pustelny, Toby Stover, Sema Tasalan, Bill Vanaver, Elijah Vanaver, Lola Warshawsky, Ruth Weinmann, Jacob Wilson, Meredith Wilson, Jonah Zane, Vicky Zhao, Luna Anata

4:15 PM - 8:30 PM
Room N/A (G)
Hilton Alabama

4:15 PM - 5:45 PM
So Many Stories, So Little Time (EFT)
Hilton Travers
Round Robin performance of all of the storytellers on this year's roster at the Flurry. Our annual 'Story Styles' session.
- The Storycrafters, Joe and Jesse, Peter Amidon
Jeri Burns, Barry Marshall, Jesse Bruchac, Joseph Bruchac, Peter Amidon

4:30 PM - 5:45 PM
Cool Choreography Contras (DS)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
The best of the latest cool contras!
- Lisa Greenleaf, Countercurrent
Lisa Greenleaf, Brian Lindsay, Alex Sturbaum

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Harmony Singing (GM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Come join in three- and four-part harmony! Brendan will share original compositions and songs gathered from his travels with singers throughout the world. All parts taught by ear; no experience necessary.
- Brendan Taaffe

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
History of Latin Boogaloo (P)
Hilton Broadway 4
Come learn about the fascinating history of Latin Boogaloo! Born in NYC during the nitty gritty 1960s, get a taste of this unique style of music & dance. In this presentation, watch documentary clips, listen to iconic Latin Boogaloo songs, learn about how the style has evolved and get a taste of this fun & funky style of dance!
- AC Dance/Metamovements
Jonathan Cabrera, Amanda Cardona

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Hubby Jenkins in Concert (E)
Parting Glass
- Hubby Jenkins

5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
Swing Party (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
From the gospel-rock of Sister Rosetta Tharpe to the burning slow blues of Bessie Smith and the irresistible swing of Fats Waller, the torchy, honey voice of Annie Rosen takes center stage, along with the Hedonists, to transport us back to an age when heartache, boozing, and all sorts of romantic mayhem amounted to one big stylish adventure. And, for some reason we won't examine too closely, that seems to hit the sweet spot of pretty much everyone!
- Annie And The Hedonists
Peter Davis, Annie Rosen, Jonny Rosen, Don Young, Jerry Marotta

5:15 PM - 6:15 PM
Communication on the Fly (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Making decisions as a band while playing. How to use melodies, chords, feet, fingers, eyebrows, and yelling to coordinate. Topics include signaling tune changes, style suggestions, negotiating arrangements, and communicating that you've just forgotten the tune you're supposed to start.
- Eric Buddington

5:15 PM - 6:15 PM
International Dances in 3/4 Time (IS)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Who doesn't love a good waltz? Try your feet at choreographies with waltzes in them from a variety of countries!
- Marcie Van Cleave

5:15 PM - 6:15 PM
Swing Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Join Gordon and his band for an open swing jam.
- Gordon Webster Band
Jay Lepley, Dylan Perillo, Gordon Webster

5:15 PM - 6:15 PM
West African Dance (DMF)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Dancers of all ages and abilities can step in and get grooving in this family-friendly, traditional Guinean dance class, led by master drummer and international choreographer M'Bemba Bangoura.
- M'Bemba Bangoura, Earthbeat Music
M'Bemba Bangoura, Chelsie Henderson, Abdul Samassa, Wayne White, Adam Witt

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Intro to Bal Folk (IB)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
If you love the energy of contras and the playfulness of English dancing, then you'll love French bourrées! These dances - from central France - involve simple footwork, sprightly tunes and a whole lot of play. By the time you're done, you'll be making plans for a summer vacation in Auvergne, dreaming of creamy blue cheese, accordion and hurdy gurdy music! We'll also toss in some simple Breton dances to bring out your inner druid and a few other classic dances from the bal folk tradition.
- Susan Kevra, Constellation
Susan Kevra, Rachel Bell, Susan Kevra, Jacqueline Schwab

6:00 PM - 7:15 PM
Medley Mania (No Walk-thrus) (DX)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
No walk throughs allowed! Multi-dance medleys of all kinds; improper, Becket, shadows, twins, grid squares, multi-caller, who knows. We might even pause to catch our breath.
- Bob Isaacs, Supertrad
Bob Isaacs, Sam Bartlett, Dave Langford, Eric Schedler

6:00 PM - 6:45 PM
Trad. Youth Showcase (ET)
Hilton Travers
Join longtime Flurry favorites, Strawberry Hill and The Vanaver Caravan Youth, for a musical demonstration of up-and-coming artists of traditional music.
- Strawberry Hill Fiddlers, Ambassadors, Vanaver Youth Co.
Janneke Baks, Miranda Colacchio, Emilia Cowan, Tyler Dezago, Tom Jefferies, Emma Lee, Rachel Lee, Elena Lieto, Olivia Lieto, Kate Lopez Santiago, Jay Nagua, Chelsea Needham, Anaya Pandya, Jack Poole DiSalvo, Keagan Sullivan, Meredith Sundberg, Nat Vinson, Tory Brillart, Jon Brillhart , Maeve Fairfax, Nolan Rogers, Mark Sustic, Luna Anata, Aliyah Barritt, Camila Cifuentes, NafI Diedhiou, Zoza Rose Doherty, Talia Grossman, Kyan Malone, Sema Tasalan, Lola Warshawsky, Ruth Weinmann, Jacob Wilson, Meredith Wilson, Jonah Zane

6:15 PM - 7:15 PM
Bowing 747 (IM)
Hilton Broadway 4
Fiddle workshop on "assertive fiddle playing."
- George Wilson

6:15 PM - 7:15 PM
Chorus Songs to Join Along (GM)
Parting Glass
This trio has chorus songs, tongue twisters, harmony ditties and sea chanteys enough to loosen up even the shy singers.
- John, Trish & Joel
John Kirk, Katie Martucci, Trish Miller, Joel Rosenberger

6:15 PM - 8:15 PM
Scottish Ball (DSX)
Saratoga Music Hall
Scottish country dancing in a social setting. List of dances with instructions available in advance from [email protected]
- Lois New, Scottish Country Dancers, Peter Macfarlane, Beth Murray
Lois New, Christopher Anagnostakis, Barbara Bemis, Samuel Bemis, Dale Birdsall, Polly Birdsall, Lachlann Bisaillion, Alex Bowers, William Brearley, David Grubb, Sally Grubb, Madeleine King, Charles Liu, Linda Moss, Lois New, Ted Randolph, Lorraine Reidel, Katie Sanger, Jim Savitt, Joan Savitt, Nadia Tell, Anita Wasson, David Wasson, Peter Macfarlane, Beth Murray

6:15 PM - 7:30 PM
Shape Note Sing (GS)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Participatory singing from the Sacred Harp and other shape note collections. Handouts with all the music is provided.
- Peter & Mary Alice Amidon
Mary Alice Amidon, Peter Amidon

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Mixing Solo and Partnered Dancing (IM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Learn a fun and upbeat routine that includes both Lindy Hop and Solo Jazz. This way you can share personal style and expression into your partnered dance experience.
- Gaby Cook & AJ Howard
Gaby Cook, AJ Howard

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Old Time Tune Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Open Old-time fiddle tunes jam for all. Bring your fiddles, banjos, mandolins, washboards, harmonicas... Come take a seat for a Pavilion "front porch" jam.
- Kelsey Wells, Brendan Taaffe

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Percussive Dance Improvisation Session (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
In this facilitated improvisation session for percussive dancers of all levels and backgrounds, we'll spend time making extemporaneous rhythms together departing from the competitive precedents of clog, tap, flatfoot, and step dance. Sharing movement and sound in-the-moment, this guided jam endeavors to offer percussive dance improvisation as a tool for connection, for the generation of new material, and for technical innovation - not as a duel, nor pas de deux, but a dialogue.
- Nic Gareiss

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Québécois Quadrille Tunes (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Learn more about the unique refinement of Québec's quadrille repertoire, with a focus on phrasing and ornamentation. We'll learn tunes from the Québec City region, traditionally used to accompany figure dances.
- Alexis Chartrand

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Tango 101: Essential Steps (IB)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Tango is an embracing dance where simple patterns allow for complex emotions. The "Essential Steps" workshop begins your tango adventure.
- Albany Tango Society (Kevin Magee & Mandy Valin)
Kevin Magee, Mandy Valin

6:45 PM - 7:30 PM
Trad. Youth Jam (GMT)
Hilton Travers
Group Jam Session run by and for Teens.
- Strawberry Hill Fiddlers, Ambassadors, Vanaver Youth Co.
Janneke Baks, Miranda Colacchio, Emilia Cowan, Tyler Dezago, Tom Jefferies, Emma Lee, Rachel Lee, Elena Lieto, Olivia Lieto, Kate Lopez Santiago, Jay Nagua, Chelsea Needham, Anaya Pandya, Jack Poole DiSalvo, Keagan Sullivan, Meredith Sundberg, Nat Vinson, Tory Brillart, Jon Brillhart , Maeve Fairfax, Nolan Rogers, Mark Sustic, Aliyah Barritt, Camila Cifuentes, NafI Diedhiou, Zoza Rose Doherty, Talia Grossman, Kyan Malone, Sema Tasalan, Lola Warshawsky, Ruth Weinmann, Jacob Wilson, Meredith Wilson, Jonah Zane, Luna Anata

7:15 PM - 8:15 PM
Classical Chinese & Folk Dance Styles (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Step into the world of Chinese dance with the Fei Tian Dancers. No prior experience is needed - together, we will see and learn some Chinese dance basics, as well as some cheerful Chinese folk and ethnic dance styles.
- The Vanaver Caravan
Alison Chen, Alice Chiu, Carol Du, Vicky Zhao, Lily Chonan, Ding Ding

7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Blues and Swing Party (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
From the gospel-rock of Sister Rosetta Tharpe to the burning slow blues of Bessie Smith and the irresistible swing of Fats Waller, the torchy, honey voice of Annie Rosen takes center stage, with super-tight, expert backing provided by husband Jonny Rosen on guitar, multi-instrumentalist Peter Davis on clarinet, tenor guitar, piano, and vocals, and Don Young on bass. They transport us back to an age when heartache, boozing, and all sorts of romantic mayhem amounted to one big stylish adventure. And, for some reason we won't examine too closely, that seems to hit the sweet spot of pretty much everyone!
- Annie And The Hedonists
Peter Davis, Annie Rosen, Jonny Rosen, Don Young, Jerry Marotta

7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Much Ado About Becket (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Everyone loves a good becket dance, and here's a collection of solid ones that *don't* start with a very familiar phrase. We'll be "circling" around some different ways to start a becket dance, don't get "left" behind!
- Liz Nelson, Countercurrent
Liz Nelson, Brian Lindsay, Alex Sturbaum

7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Scandinavian Fiddle Tunes (Mando, Fiddle, Guitar) (IM)
Hilton Broadway 4
In Scandinavia, the fiddle is quite literally the stuff of legend. Scandinavian fiddle music includes Swedish and Norwegian traditions especially and brings into play fascinating ancient rhythms, melodies, and harmonies. We'll learn a few fiddle tunes from Sweden, Finland, Norway and Denmark that have been adapted for mandolin, and we'll look at the major types of styles that typify the music: Polskas, Schottises, Hambos, Waltzes, Snoas, Gànglàtar, etc.
- Wayne Fugate

7:30 PM - 8:15 PM
Tango 102: Essential Patterns (IB)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Tango steps are combined in simple patterns to create flow in the partnership. The "Essential Patterns" workshop will acquaint you with reliable and beautiful patterns.
- Albany Tango Society (Kevin Magee & Mandy Valin)
Kevin Magee, Mandy Valin

7:30 PM - 8:15 PM
Tap Extravaganza with Demi and Tony (E)
Parting Glass
Demi & Tony are a tap dance and piano duo who have both performed internationally with Postmodern Jukebox. Acclaimed in their own rights, their whimsical yet complex song and dance pieces showcase their virtuosity and performative talents. Together they have performed their arrangements at theaters, universities, private events, and for their amassing virtual audience. Together, Demi and Tony reinvent nostalgic music into medleys, covers and full-length shows arranged for tap and piano. This exciting blend of high energy rhythm tap dance with stride-style jazz piano create an entertaining and fast paced live performance.
- Demi Remick, Tony Kieraldo

7:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Polish Dance for Everyone (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Rafal Pustelny, a traditional Polish dancer (and beloved swing dancer) teaches dances from Poland.
- Rafal Pustelny, The Vanaver Caravan, Chelsea Needham
Rafal Pustelny, Livia Drapkin Vanaver, Toby Stover, Mark Murphy, Bill Vanaver, Isabel Cottingham, Chelsea Needham

7:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Romanian jam (IGS)
Hilton Pavilion
Welcome bowed strings, hammered strings and winds! We will learn 3-5 pieces in the Romanian tradition and include an introductory discussion of style, ornamentation and 2 types of scales often used in the style. Sheet music provided (C instruments and Bb clarinet).
- Balkan Fields Band
Dean Brown, Melinda Fields, Mel Fitzhugh, Ralph Iverson

7:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Slow Flow Yoga (GM)
Hilton Travers
A quiet time to reset before getting back out on the dance floor. Join us to recharge your body and come back to your breath. This is an all levels yoga class. Yoga session will be on carpet. Bring your own mat.
- Rhianna Leigh

7:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Waltz Music Styling (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Grow your playing beyond melody and oom-pah-pah. We'll explore variations, harmony, rhythm and different waltz traditions.
- Spare Parts
Eric Buddington, Bill Matthiesen, Liz Stell

7:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Work Songs (IM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Traditionally, cultures around the world have accompanied work with songs. These songs help to coordinate work and pass the time. In America, songs were used and developed for many types of labor from picking cotton to hammering railroad spikes. In this class, we will explore the history, poetry, and beauty of these songs through singing and rhythmic use of our bodies.
- Hubby Jenkins

8:15 PM - 9:30 PM
Tango Practica (NM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Put your new steps to work in a relaxed tango social. Dance with friends and strangers. Share the love. Casual attire recommended. Footwear that slides recommended. Professional dancers available for assistance and suggestions.
- Albany Tango Society (Kevin Magee & Mandy Valin)
Kevin Magee, Mandy Valin

8:30 PM - 10:15 PM
English for All (DM)
Saratoga Music Hall
Come dance old favorite and new dances with old and new friends.
- Susan Kevra, Jacqueline Schwab and Dave Langford
Susan Kevra, Dave Langford, Jacqueline Schwab

8:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Pub Sing (GM)
Parting Glass
Raise the rafters and wallow in the big fat harmonies of traditional pub songs from the British Isles and beyond. Session is a singaround open to all who will.
- Lynn Noel, PSG (Pickin' Singing' Gatherin')
Lynn Noel, Bev Seinberg

8:30 PM - 9:45 PM
Zydeco Dance (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Get into the Zydeco groove!
- ZydeGroove
Alan Bradbury, Doug Chatman, Laren Droll, Gary Graef, Maggie McManus, Roger Weiss

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Gong Bath (EG)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
The Gong Lab "Gong Baths" are a meditation experiment with sound and vibration. We use gongs, singing bowls and other equipment to facilitate relaxation and cultivate a rejuvenating experience. The gong produces a continuum of sound or known as the holistic resonance found in living objects that vibrate with every cell in their being. The gong is an engine of resonate power or "feeling" tones. Feeling tones are felt in a kinesthetic way as a result of sustained tone production of long and low frequency sound waves or oscillations. The body responds to prolonged saturation of sound by listening as if it were a big ear, hearing with feeling. When this happens, the mental, emotional and physical bodies become both super-conductive, and super-regenerating as the strain caused by the normal resistance of the ego-identity no longer exists as a disease factor. Or it just sounds cool!
- The Gong Lab
Jim Pavoldi, Nick Pavoldi

9:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Open Jamming (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Area available for open jam time for any Flurry musician (performer, attendee, etc.). Please be welcoming to all who wish to play.
- Flurry Jammers
Various Festival Musicians

9:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Set Dance: Polkas & Slides (Sliabh Luachra Set) (DXS)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Irish set dancing is an upbeat, lively form of social dance, in squares of four couples. There is an equal emphasis on both the movement patterns and the rhythmic footwork, making it a physical and aural experience! In this session we'll look at polkas and slides, always a crowd favorite. We'll warm-up with basic polka/slide footwork, and then learn and dance figures from the Sliabh Luachra set. Throughout, the emphasis will be on community and joy in moving together!
- Jackie O'Riley, Toss the Feathers
Jackie O'Riley, David Pease, Amy Schoch, Dave Smith, Don Meade

9:15 PM - 10:15 PM
Ballroomin' & Blues (IM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Learn to dance beautifully to slow jazz. We'll work on close embrace technique and how to lead and follow the basics of ballroomin blues.
- Shawn Hershey

9:15 PM - 10:45 PM
Contra Party! (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Hot contras that help you celebrate with a whole room of happy dancers.
- Lisa Greenleaf, River Road
Lisa Greenleaf, Jesse Ball, Kristen Planeaux, Sarah-Hadley Yakir

9:45 PM - 10:45 PM
Dances of Bulgaria (DM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
We will learn dances from the various ethnographic regions of Bulgaria with their wealth of "mixed rhythms" (5/16, 7/16, 9/16, 11/16, 15/16, 18/16, 25/16). Come and find the beat!
- Stephen Kotansky, Balkan Fields Band
Stephen Kotansky, Dean Brown, Melinda Fields, Mel Fitzhugh, Henry Goldberg, Melinda Hunt, Ralph Iverson

10:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Latin Party Dances: Basic Merengue, Bachata and Salsa (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Make the most out of any dance party with Latin music by shimmying and shaking on the dance floor with some fancy footwork. MetaMovements artists will guide you through the basics of Salsa, Bachata and Merengue so you can strut your stuff on the dance floor!
- AC Dance/Metamovements
Jonathan Cabrera, Amanda Cardona

10:15 PM - 11:45 PM
Late Night Lindy and Blues (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Drawing on influences as diverse as Fats Waller, Count Basie, Oscar Peterson and Gene Harris, Webster serves up a smorgasbord of styles unified by one characteristic: irresistible danceability.
- Gordon Webster Band
Jay Lepley, Dylan Perillo, Gordon Webster

11:00 PM - 12:30 AM
Bal Folk Dance (NS)
Parting Glass
Join us for an evening session for dance from the French bal folk tradition. Great music and just a soupçon of instruction!
- Constellation
Rachel Bell, Susan Kevra, Jacqueline Schwab

11:00 PM - 12:30 AM
Late Night Contras (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Fulfilling dances to cap off a wonderful day at Flurry!
- Adina Gordon, Engine Room
Adina Gordon, Alex Sturbaum, Noah VanNorstrand, Kelsey Wells

11:00 PM - 12:30 AM
Latin Dance Mix (DJ) (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Mixing the best in Salsa, Cha Cha, Bachata, Merengue and more.
- Frankie Ramos
DJ Frankie Ramos

12:00 AM - 1:30 AM
DJ Late Night Fusion (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Dancers will hear a variety of music genres to allow people from multiple dance backgrounds to be able to dance to 2am!
- Emiliano Estevez
DJ Darkstar

February 18, 2024

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
10 Steps to Writing a Dance (IM)
Hilton Broadway 4
From getting an idea, to timing and flow, to teaching points and music, we'll go over all the steps choreographers use to make a good dance fun. Designed for callers whether or not they intend to write dances, and anyone else interested in how modern dances are created.
- Bob Isaacs

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Make Friends With Your Metronome (IM)
Hilton Whitney
All instruments - all levels! Super-charge your playing with this most Important tool! Playing with good time is fundamental to making good music, yet this critical aspect of musicianship is often ignored. This session is intended to help all musicians on any instrument improve their feel for rhythm by practicing with a metronome. Even players who have been playing a long time can benefit from the material here. Topics covered include: an overview of different types of metronomes, metronome basics, playing standard time signatures, sub-dividing the beat? playing odd time signatures? accenting different beats? practicing rhythm to melody transitions? playing on, ahead of, or behind the beat? testing how healthy your internal sense of time is, fun games to try with the metronome and other useful information intended to help you make friends with your metronome!
- Wayne Fugate

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Nia: A Somatic Journey (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Integrate body mind spirit and emotions on a movement journey supported by great music- Nia is a somatic based technique that includes dance, martial arts and healing arts like yoga that is tailored to your body's way. Open to all ages and can be done in a chair if needed.
- Alice Heller

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Pete Seeger Children Songs (GMF)
Hilton Travers
Pete loved to sing for children and families and created a vast repertoire of songs for young people.
- Bill Vanaver, Toby Stover, Livia Drapkin Vanaver, Mark Murphy, Chelsea Needham

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Rise and Shine Yoga (GM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Rise and shine- but not too fast. Join us for a sweet morning stretch to gather your energy so you're still standing for that last dance... Yoga session will be on carpet. Bring your own mat.
- Rhianna Leigh

9:00 AM - 12:20 PM
ROOM N/A (G)
Hilton Alabama

9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Contra 101 (IB)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Learn the basic steps to contra dancing, then put your new-found skills to the test in the following dance.
- Isaac Banner, Capital District Megaband
Isaac Banner, Melanie Axel-Lute, Mark Bagdon, Nancy Bakemeier, David Barnert, Tom Black, Alice Callahan, Tom Capuano, Sue Cerniglia, Bob Denton, Catherine Ertelt, Vonnie Estes, Jane Falkenstein, Mary Fellows, Liz Gingrich, John Guay, Jeff Haas, Kim Heath, Carol Ipsen, Vicki Kelsey, Patricia Kernan, Terry Klein, Carle Kopecky, Shira Love, Terri Lukacko, John McCarthy, Maura McNamara, Jill Mehan, Gary Mehlum, Barbara Mullin, Laura Paparatto, Judy Pardee, Pat Rabl, Chris Roe, Dian Ryan, Carolyn Sanford, Jackie Tenney, Abi Wadler, Beth Williams, George Wilson, Joe Zoske, Terri Hughes

9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
Beginner Tap Class (IB)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Basic tap dance with Demi! No tap shoes needed!
- Demi Remick

9:45 AM - 10:45 AM
Elements of Waltz Swing (IM)
Saratoga Music Hall
Learn how to incorporate six-count swing moves into your waltzes. These are great variations to do if you want to go into the center of the floor and dance in a small area for a while.
- Tim Lamm, Diane Gonzales

9:45 AM - 11:15 AM
Shadows in the Spotlight (DS)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
In this session we'll be focusing on dances featuring various ways to engage, have fun with, and interact with our shadows. No need to stick them on with soap, they'll be looking for you too!
- Liz Nelson, Supertrad
Liz Nelson, Sam Bartlett, Dave Langford, Eric Schedler

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Look Alive! Early Morning Swing (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Never too early to get into the swing of things. Drawing on influences as diverse as Fats Waller, Count Basie, Oscar Peterson and Gene Harris, Webster serves up a smorgasbord of styles unified by one characteristic: irresistible danceability.
- Gordon Webster Band
Jay Lepley, Dylan Perillo, Gordon Webster

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Arranging Tunes for Dances (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Join Alex and Brian as they demonstrate the ways to take a tune from a melody as written to an exciting journey for both dancers and musicians.
- Countercurrent
Brian Lindsay, Alex Sturbaum

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Bal Folk Music Workshop (IM)
Hilton Broadway 4
Bal folk tunes range from groovy to beautiful to energetic. Come get a brief overview and then learn a tune or two along with some stylistic tips. We'll focus on what makes a tune fit a particular kind of dance and how to set up the groove. We'll learn by ear, but sheet music will be provided at the end. All instruments welcome. Come with at least basic proficiency on your instrument.
- Susan Kevra, Rachel Bell

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Dances of Macedonia (DM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Join us and see how the Macedonians treat asymmetrical rhythms as we dance old and new dances from "Macedonia" (East, Central, West, and Aegean).
- Stephen Kotansky, Balkan Fields Band
Stephen Kotansky, Dean Brown, Melinda Fields, Mel Fitzhugh, Henry Goldberg, Melinda Hunt, Ralph Iverson

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
English Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Join Jacqueline for a variety of English Country Dance tunes. Bring your instruments!
- Jacqueline Schwab

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Songs of Atlantic Canada (EGM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Newfoundland and the Maritimes have a rich musical heritage in song and story. Sing along or just enjoy a concert highlighting Lynn's adventures from the Labrador coast to the shores of l'Acadie.
- Lynn Noel

10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
World Dance For Families (DMFT)
Hilton Travers
Dances from around the globe.
- The Vanaver Caravan, Chelsea Needham
Luna Anata, Aliyah Barritt, Camilas Cifuente, Amadou Diallo, Nafi Diedhiou, Zoza Rose Doherty, Livia Drapkin Vanaver, Talia Grossman, Kyan Malone, Jacob Wilson, Mark Murphy, Toby Stover, Sema Tasalan, Bill Vanaver, Elijah Vanaver, Lola Warshawsky, Ruth Weinmann, Meredith Wilson, Jonah Zane, Chelsea Needham

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Easy Contras (DM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Join Isaac and the largest contra dance band in the area for some easy contras that will help you expand on what you learned in Contra 101.
- Isaac Banner, Capital District Megaband
Isaac Banner, Melanie Axel-Lute, Mark Bagdon, Nancy Bakemeier, David Barnert, Tom Black, Alice Callahan, Tom Capuano, Sue Cerniglia, Bob Denton, Catherine Ertelt, Vonnie Estes, Jane Falkenstein, Mary Fellows, Liz Gingrich, John Guay, Jeff Haas, Kim Heath, Carol Ipsen, Vicki Kelsey, Patricia Kernan, Terry Klein, Carle Kopecky, Shira Love, Terri Lukacko, John McCarthy, Maura McNamara, Jill Mehan, Gary Mehlum, Barbara Mullin, Laura Paparatto, Judy Pardee, Pat Rabl, Chris Roe, Dian Ryan, Carolyn Sanford, Jackie Tenney, Abi Wadler, Beth Williams, George Wilson, Joe Zoske, Terri Hughes

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Cajun 6-Count Two-Step and Jitterbug (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Cajuns have their own take on 6-count two-step and jitterbugging: a little bit country, a little bit swing, and all Cajun groove. Come learn the basic steps, stylings, and some cool moves to spice up a Cajun dance party.
- Erica Weiss

11:00 AM - 12:15 PM
Intro to Swedish Polska (IM)
Saratoga Music Hall
Enjoy the hambo-like dovetailing of different footwork patterns that creates beautiful turning in the Swedish polska. Learn the secrets of pivoting, balance, and lilt ("svikt") that create the ease and power of the turn, while dancing to great live music.
- lydia ievins, Laura Stern & Tom Roby
lydia ievins, Tom Roby, Laura Stern

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Big Jam With Jay & Molly (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
A jig, a reel, a swing tune, a waltz, old time? Come jam with masters of melody and rhythm.
- Jay Ungar & Molly Mason
Molly Mason, Jay Ungar

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Bones 101 (IB)
Hilton Broadway 4
Since the dawn of man, the rhythm bones have passed from hand to hand becoming one of the most widely played instruments in the world. After many travels, the bones made their way to America and became an integral part of American popular music. Come learn a bit more about the history and playing of this unique instrument. Hubby will demonstrate how to hold the bones and how to play simple rhythms that'll get you playing in no time. There will be lots of practice as we play along to different types of music ranging from Charlie Poole to Al Green.
- Hubby Jenkins

11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Cultural Connections Travel & Exchange (P)
Hilton Whitney
For many years, MetaMovements has been designing trips to Cuba and the Dominican Republic in partnership with artists and local agencies in both Caribbean islands. Learn how individuals, dance & music groups can travel to Cuba and the Dominican Republic legally to perform, teach and exchange.
- MetaMovements
Jonathan Cabrera, Amanda Cardona

11:30 AM - 12:45 PM
Gospel Harmony Sing (GM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Participatory singing of sacred and secular gospel-style songs; some harmonized by ear, and some with harmonies taught by the Amidons.
- Peter & Mary Alice Amidon
Mary Alice Amidon, Peter Amidon

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Hey, That's Different! (DS)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
A hey is a hey is a hey, right? Nope. There are lots of different kinds of heys, or moves that are kind of like heys, or moves that might be heys if you squint real hard. They all dance differently, and we'll try several in this varied session.
- Adina Gordon, River Road
Adina Gordon, Jesse Ball, Kristen Planeaux, Sarah-Hadley Yakir

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Sean-Nos Dance (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Sean-nòs, or "old-style" Irish dance, is a low-to-the-ground, percussive, improvised form of solo stepping where the dancer interprets and provides rhythmic accompaniment to the music. We'll learn a fun beginning repertoire and begin to talk about how to approach improvisation. Beginners and all levels very welcome! Smooth, leather-soled, low-heeled shoes are ideal for sean-nòs if you happen to have them.
- Jackie O'Riley, Toss the Feathers
Jackie O'Riley, David Pease, Amy Schoch, Dave Smith, Don Meade

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
World Dances for Peace (DM)
Hilton Travers
Dances that are in reverence to the earth and are created to engender connection and wish for peace.
- The Vanaver Caravan, Chelsea Needham
Luna Anata, Aliyah Barritt, Alison Chen, Alice Chiu, Camilas Cifuente, Amadou Diallo, Nafi Diedhiou, Zoza Rose Doherty, Livia Drapkin Vanaver, Carol Du, Talia Grossman, Kyan Malone, Jacob Wilson, Mark Murphy, Toby Stover, Sema Tasalan, Bill Vanaver, Lola Warshawsky, Ruth Weinmann, Meredith Wilson, Vicky Zhao, Jonah Zane, Chelsea Needham

11:45 AM - 12:45 PM
Body Percussion: Basic Tap for Tweens & Teens (IMT)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Work on coordination, body percussion and basic tap dance with Demi!
- Demi Remick

11:45 AM - 1:00 PM
Cajun Dance - Flavored with French Acadian roots (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Le Winston Band is Canada's premier Cajun and Zydeco dance band with all band members having been fully immersed in the music and culture of both the Cajun and Creole people of SW Louisiana. This session will highlight their favorite Cajun material flavored with their French Acadian roots - 2-Steps, Waltzes and Honky-Tonk Swing.
- Le Winston Band
Andrew Duquette-Boyte, Antoine Fallu, Vincent Fillion, Noam Guerrier Freud, Antoine Larocque

11:45 AM - 12:45 PM
T'aint What You Do, It's The Way That You Do It (IM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Learning the steps is just the beginning! Let's explore how we can bridge the gap between "doing the steps" and actually dancing them!
- Brian Lawton, Rafal Pustelny

12:15 PM - 1:45 PM
Dance Organizers: Talk Shop & Share Ideas (C)
Hilton Whitney
Are you a dance organizer? This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with others doing the same amazing work as you. The session will be interactive - we will share neat initiatives from our various communities and problem solve common challenges many of us face. It's well worth the break from dancing!
- Emily Addison

12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
A Challenge But Worth It (English County Dance) (DX)
Saratoga Music Hall
More complex dances that reward a little extra effort!
- Gene Murrow, Constellation
Gene Murrow, Rachel Bell, Susan Kevra, Jacqueline Schwab

12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
Country Blues Round Robin (E)
Hilton Travers
This session will feature songs of some of the great country blues artists such as Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Mississippi John Hurt, Bo Carter, Robert Johnson, Big Bill Broonzu, and Memphis Minnie.
- Hubby Jenkins, Annie & Jonny Rosen, George Wilson
Hubby Jenkins, Annie Rosen, Jonny Rosen, George Wilson

12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
Our Roots Are Showing (EFT)
Hilton Alabama
A fun and family friendly journey through stories and songs from Barry's Anglo-Celtic and Jeri's Ashkenazic Jewish heritages with other surprises thrown in for good measure.
- The Storycrafters
Jeri Burns, Barry Marshall

12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
Scottish Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Spend an hour playing tunes from the Scottish tradition, tunes that smell of peat fires, heather, crags and single malt. Led by Peter Macfarlane and Beth Murray, familiar and favourite tunes from Scotland will be played at a tempo that invites participation as well as learning by ear (no sheet music will be offered), and will be repeated sufficiently to allow newcomers to find their way.
- Peter Macfarlane, Beth Murray

12:45 PM - 2:15 PM
Squares for Contra Dancers (DS)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Not wild about squares? We get it. Which is why these squares are designed for contra diehards; minimal walk-throughs, fun moves, and lots of swinging. You might even like it.
- Bob Isaacs, Erica Weiss, Dave Langford

12:45 PM - 1:45 PM
Why Do We Think We ****? Musicians Therapy Group (C)
Hilton Broadway 4
Let's commiserate about how and why we get in our own ways to prevent us from really enjoying what we do.
- Peter Davis

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Dance the Tune (IXS)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Traversing intersections and interstices of many traditional percussive dance styles, this class explores the sheer musical potential of your feet. Using imitation and idiomatic ornaments as well as extended techniques for shoe sounds and textures, we will learn to construct lines of rhythm imitating melody as well as create rhythmic counterpoint by setting up shoe-grooves and developing listening, responsiveness, and sonic sensing.
- Nic Gareiss, Alexis Chartrand

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Mid-Winter, Mid-Afternoon Swing (NM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Drawing on influences as diverse as Fats Waller, Count Basie, Oscar Peterson and Gene Harris, Webster serves up a smorgasbord of styles unified by one characteristic: irresistible danceability.
- Gordon Webster Band
Jay Lepley, Dylan Perillo, Gordon Webster

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Stuntology with Sam Bartlett (IMF)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Come learn a few stupid tricks from Sam that will alter your mind, train your body and change your life!
- Sam Bartlett

1:15 PM - 2:45 PM
Fun With Fractions Contras (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Don't be afraid to have fun with the math in these exciting contras. Everything will be taught to ensure it all adds up for you.
- Lisa Greenleaf, Engine Room
Lisa Greenleaf, Alex Sturbaum, Noah VanNorstrand, Kelsey Wells

1:15 PM - 2:15 PM
Let's Boogaloo! (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Latin Boogaloo is a fun & funky style of dance that mixes Latin & Funk/Soul rhythms! Born in NYC during the 60s, come and get funky in this chill style of dance!
- AC Dance/Metamovements
Jonathan Cabrera, Amanda Cardona

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Cajun Music Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
Cajun Music Jams are wonderfully welcoming allowing each participant to find their place … a place with shared grooves, encouraging nods, and inspiring solos. Le Winston Band will lead the jam sharing their passion for the "Cajun Jams" where they first truly bonded as musicians and friends.
- Le Winston Band
Andrew Duquette-Boyte, Antoine Fallu, Vincent Fillion, Noam Guerrier Freud, Antoine Larocque

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Fingerpickin' the Blues (IB)
Hilton Broadway 4
This workshop will focus on right-hand technique, specifically activating and maintaining that steady thumb. In this workshop, Hubby will share a few exercises and songs for tightening up your pickin'.
- Hubby Jenkins

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Jay & Molly in Concert (E)
Hilton Travers
Jay & Molly are masters of music and storytelling who generously share their lives and their music with audiences. There are so many moments and strands to savor in the course of an evening of their music. In the words of Garrison Keillor, "Jay and Molly make music that is simple and overwhelming… joyful and full of feeling… an apotheosis of American traditional music."
- Jay Ungar & Molly Mason, Peter Davis
Molly Mason, Jay Ungar, Peter Davis

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Learn a Contra Tune (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Add to your tune repertoire with one of my favorite contra tunes (or two).
- Cedar Stanistreet

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Word Dances (EFT)
Hilton Alabama
Family storytelling performance: The dance between word and gesture to send us on journeys of the imagination.
- The Storycrafters, Alan McClintock
Jeri Burns, Barry Marshall, Alan McClintock

2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
All We Need is Love Songs! (E)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
Romance, emotion, longing, and lust are a few of the common themes in love songs. Jonny and Annie Rosen of Annie & the Hedonists will perform love songs from across the spectrum of musical genres and eras. From Ella Fitzgerald to Kate Wolf come and enjoy an hour of lovin' fun!
- Annie & Jonny Rosen
Annie Rosen, Jonny Rosen

2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
Latin Dance Mix (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Mixing the best in Salsa, Cha Cha, Bachata, Merengue and more.
- Frankie Ramos
DJ Frankie Ramos

2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
West African Drum & Dance (IM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Bring your drum, if you have one, and learn some of the rhythms and songs of Senegal, West Africa.
- Amadou Diallo, Toby Stover

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Soft Shoe Tap Class (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Hollywood and MGM movie music style dance moves!
- Demi Remick

2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
How to Swing Dance to Different Tempos (IM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Explore the way your basic steps change with different tempos. The umbrella of Swing music offers many different tempos that will change the rhythms you use in your common patterns.
- Brian Lawton, Rafal Pustelny

2:45 PM - 4:15 PM
Scandi Dance Party (NM)
Saratoga Music Hall
Come dance your favorite Swedish dances, with a smattering of Norwegian -- polska, pols, slängpolska, schottis, waltz, hambo, snoa, and more.
- lydia ievins

3:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Grid Squares (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
Explore the unique figures and progressions of the most inclusive formation of all, the grid square.
- Bob Isaacs, Countercurrent
Bob Isaacs, Brian Lindsay, Alex Sturbaum

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Bob McQuillen/New England Tune Jam (GM)
Hilton Pavilion
New England tunes jam in honor of revered New Hampshire tunesmith, pianist and accordionist Bob McQuillen.
- George Wilson, Vonnie Estes

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Making Magic with Ken Burns (E)
Hilton Travers
Pianist Jacqueline Schwab, whose signature playing has been heard on Ken Burns' Civil War and other documentaries, will perform pieces from her work with Ken, who originally connected with her music from her first recording by the English dance quartet Bare Necessities. She will play slow airs and dance tunes and discuss Ken's unusual way of working with music—how he draws on traditional folk music (pared down for background music), how he elicits emotive performances and how he uses music to express his stories and values.
- Jacqueline Schwab

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Making Others Sound Better (IM)
Hilton Alabama
How to support bandmates musically. Discussion of when to take the melody, how to match styles, how to back up unfamiliar tunes, how to fix musical issues, and when not to.
- Eric Buddington

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Old-Time Fiddle Tunes for Mandolin (IM)
Hilton Whitney
Learn about the unique distinctions that set Old-Time tunes apart from their cousins in Bluegrass. We'll learn about the important figures in the music; seminal figures like John Salyer, Tommy Jarrell, and Ed Haley and contemporary keepers of the tradition like Earl White, Bruce Molsky and Jim Childress. Most importantly, we'll dive into these tunes on mandolin! We'll learn both ‘straight' and 'crooked' tunes, how to best accompany them, and perhaps a harmony line or two along the way.
- Wayne Fugate

3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Tahitian Dance & Storytelling: Oceans & Origins (E)
Hilton Broadway 4
Embark on an immersive cultural experience combining the rhythmic movements of Tahitian dance with the rich oral traditions of the South Seas. This performance celebrates Tahitian heritage and culture, connecting the audience with ancestral stories and the Aroha spirit of Tahiti through dance, music, storytelling and poetry.
- Nicola Marae Allain

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Find Your Balkan Voice! (IM)
Hilton Broadway 1/2
We will explore the major musical elements of singing from this region: powerful "chest voice" vocal style, harmonies both lush and dissonant, and rhythms that veer from the familiar. In addition to fun vocal exercises and experimentation, we will learn at least one complete song.
- Erica Weiss

3:30 PM - 4:45 PM
Patterned Partner Dancing (IM)
City Center Rm. A/B/C
Patterned Partner dancing is danced in clubs and honky tonks all across the country. Learn some easy choreographed dances that can be danced to country music. No partner required.
- Sue Kaupelis

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Zydeco Dance: Dynamic Originals, Powerful Classics (NM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 2
Description: Le Winston Band is Canada's premier Cajun and Zydeco dance band with all members having fully immersed themselves in the music and culture of both the Cajun and Creole people of SW Louisiana. In this Zydeco focused session the band will deliver inspiring dance material combining dynamic originals with powerful renditions of classic songs.
- Le Winston Band
Andrew Duquette-Boyte, Antoine Fallu, Vincent Fillion, Noam Guerrier Freud, Antoine Larocque

3:45 PM - 4:45 PM
Ukrainian and Russian Dances (IM)
City Center Mtg. Rm 1
Dancing ignores politics and unites us in a common joy. Let's join together in dances from Ukraine and Russia, and as we do so, send thoughts, prayers and hope to the people suffering in both countries as we pay homage to their traditions.
- Marcie Van Cleave

4:00 PM - 5:15 PM
Swing and Blues Farewell (DM)
Hilton "Melita" Ballroom
Flurry weekend is almost over. Time to get the blues -- and swing! Catch this last dance before the weekend's gone.
- Annie And The Hedonists
Peter Davis, Jerry Marotta, Annie Rosen, Jonny Rosen, Don Young

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
The Big Farewell Contra Dance! (DM)
City Center Rosenberg Hall (Rm. D)
The last big contra dance of the 2024 festival!
- Liz Nelson, Bob Isaacs, Cedar Stanistreet, Noah VanNorstrand, Brian Lindsay, John Kirk, Eric Schedler, Sam Bartlett, Alex Sturbaum

Date: February 16-18, 2024

Location: Various Venues in Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

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