Qwill Duvall & Contra Rebels
Qwill will prevent a civil war between the larks and robins as the Contra Rebels leave us Gone with the Wind. Duvall don’t know nothin’ ’bout birthin’ babies but they sure know ’bout callin’ dances. Contra Rebels will Rhett your appetite for Scarlet-hot tunes with Melanies to get your Ashley in gear. As the band brings down the curtain to dress you in style, remember that tomorrow is another dance.
In Qwill Duvall‘s words: I am a contra dancer and caller from the Midwest. I began contra dancing in 2015 shortly after moving to Chicago. A couple years later I began regularly traveling for dancing and I started calling in 2019. I called regularly in the Chicago area during 2019 and the beginning of 2020, and I was just thinking about going on tour when the pandemic hit. Fortunately, I am now back on the road and touring! I’ve been at it since the beginning of 2023. I’ve called from the Midwest to the west coast and will be reterning to Swingin’ Tern for the third time.
The Contra Rebels are fronted by the twin fiddles of musical and personal partners Todd Clewell and Barb Schmid, joined by the rhythm guitar of Henry Koretzky, and the bass of Aaron Blouin.  The Contra Rebels have played for dances as far afield as Tennessee, Georgia, Oregon, and Washington State, and have a recording called Down the River.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- Newcomers are welcome to come at 7pm for an introductory lesson on the basics of contra dancing. No partner is necessary. All dances are taught with a “walk-through” by the caller.
- Masks and vaccines are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- We have open windows on three sides and air-conditioning when needed.
- Our dance is two blocks from the Chatham station on the Morris/Essex line out of Penn Station, NYC.
- We welcome contributions of home-baked [or not] goodies to share at the break.
- Please bring your own water bottle. Water bottles may be filled at the kitchen sink.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!Â
Hourly Schedule
Dance Schedule
- 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
- Beginner's Workshop
- Learn the basics or help the newcomers.
- 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
- Dance
- The main event.