Swingin' Tern Dances
Location: St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 200 Main Street, Chatham, NJ a smoke and alcohol-free environment. See photos and video below. DIRECTIONS
Time: Beginner's workshop at 7:00 PM. Dance follows, 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM (unless otherwise indicated). Please carry in clean, soft-soled shoes for dancing. Dance at your own risk.
Admission: $15 per adult, $5 per student with Student ID.
For More Information: (973) 535-3274 or send email to [email protected]
Proof of Covid vaccination is no longer required.
40th Anniversary Swingin' Tern Name Buttons
Order your 40th Anniversary Name Button here! Your button will be available at our 40th Anniversary Dance on January 6th, 2024. Buttons are $3.00 apiece plus a 50 cent service fee if ordered online. You may save the service fee by ordering in person at one of our December dances. List your first name for the front of the button. Your last name will be written on the back of the button. The background color is random.
Bands and callers, email our booking contact at [email protected].
Swingin' Tern Dances
Location: St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 200 Main Street, Chatham, NJ a smoke and alcohol-free environment. See photos and video below. DIRECTIONS
Time: Beginner's workshop at 7:00 PM. Dance follows, 7:30 PM - 10:30 PM (unless otherwise indicated). Please carry in clean, soft-soled shoes for dancing. Non-dancing children must be supervised at all times. Dance at your own risk.
Admission: $15 per adult, $5 per student with Student ID.
For More Information: (973) 535-3274 or send email to [email protected]
40th Anniversary Swingin' Tern Name Buttons
Order your 40th Anniversary Name Button here! Your button will be available at our 40th Anniversary Dance on January 6th, 2024. Buttons are $3.00 apiece plus a 50 cent service fee if ordered online. You may save the service fee by ordering in person at one of our December dances. List your first name for the front of the button. Your last name will be written on the back of the button. The background color is random.
Click the image below to check out the joy at our Retern to Tern from July 17th, 2021.
Gan Ainm [Irish for “without name”]
On the first part of the journey
I was dancing at Swingin’ Tern
There were heys and chains and stars and things
There were calls and tunes and swings
The first thing I found was a dance hall abuzz
And such joy with no bounds
The tunes were hot, and the calls renowned
And the air was full of sound
You see I’ve been to Swingin’ Tern
With a band with no name
With slick tunes that came down like the rain
At Swingin’ Tern, you can remember your name
‘Cause your friends are there and you’re home to remain.
Dave Rupp has been an active dancer and caller in the Philadelphia region since the 90’s, calling regularly at the Mt Airy Thursday Night Contra, and at dances in Princeton and Arden, DE. He has also called at the Valley Contra in Bethlehem, and at dances in Baltimore and Glen Echo, MD. Dave enjoys calling a varied program of dances with good humor and an energetic style.
Gan Ainm, featuring Sean Rosenberry and Steven Czajkowski, is an energetic duo of Irish musicians from NYC. Sean’s fiery fiddle tunes backed by Steven’s driving rhythm guitar is a combination guaranteed to keep you on your toes and on the dance floor!
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Riehl runs real and Rendezvous reels out reels to rein in the randy retinue of rabble rousers. A rhapsody of rhythm and rhyme from rosin, resin, and resonant refrains ricochets round the room to riotous rave reviews.
Long seen on the dance stage playing cello with the Princeton Pick-up Band and more recently with Strings Attached, Christie Riehl has taken up the caller’s mike. She is known for her engaging personality that pulls dancers onto the floor with her welcoming calling.
Rendezvous is a trio of high energy musicians meeting to generate joy and movement on the dance floor. Jared Bishop is an exciting new fiddler on the Philadelphia music scene, playing in several groups for local dancing. Mat Clark has long been a dynamic force as fiddler with Raise the Roof, Hot Feet, Pieces of Eight and many more. Bob Pasquarello plays piano and lays down the foundation for great dancing whenever he plays.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
It may be contraintuitive that the contraband Contra Intuitive contains no contrabassoon, contrabass, or contrafogatto. In contradistinction, they contraposition contrapunctual contracts. Carter’s contras contribute contrails of contentment. Contrarians are contraindicated.
Carter North has been dancing throughout the country since 2014 and started calling to deepen his understanding of contra dance as a form. He participated in Brooklyn Contra’s Caller Development workshop series in 2023 and apprenticed through a grant from NYSCA. He brings his love of social dance to the mic, with a focus on creating a joyful experience for dancers of all experience levels.
Contra Intuitive features Ryck and Peggy Kaiser who combine their musical talents to provide lively dance music for contra dances, square dances, and civil war reenactment balls. Ryck has been fiddling for dances for over thirty years. His sound is southern Appalachian with a raggy, swinging feel. Expect to hear reels, rags, marches and a few jigs. Peggy is a retired music teacher and in addition to the piano, she plays the Appalachian mountain dulcimer. An experienced clinician, Peggy has taught workshops throughout Pennsylvania.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 adults/$5 students
5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop
7:30 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students.
Adina Gordon finds an outlet for her loves of travel, music, dance and silliness by calling and dancing throughout the U.S. and Canada, facilitating joy and minor chaos wherever she goes. Combining a voice that makes you WANT to do what she says with a commitment to using that power for good and not evil, Adina calls dances both old and new that cause spontaneous eruptions of joy on the dance floor. She counts it as a job well done whenever anyone says, “I don’t really like squares, but they’re fun when you call them.”
With a 25+ year history, The Moving Violations have a playful energy that transcends the borders of countries and encourages spontaneity and improvisation. The band brings driving fiddle harmonies, strong rhythm, and collective groove and flow to the dance floor.
Original compositions as well as tunes from Ireland, Scotland, Cape Breton, New England, Eastern Europe, Sweden, and Eastern Europe are all fair game for The Moving Violations.
The band features Ron Grosslein on fiddle and percussion, Autumn Rose Lester on fiddle, and Eric Eid-Reiner on piano.
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.
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- We have open windows on three sides and air-conditioning when needed.
- 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!
Hailing from Boston, Harris Lapiroff says, “I strive for an efficient, friendly calling style that adapts to halls of any skill level.”
Here on the Hill is three musicians who can’t resist playing together. The Boston-based trio has been making waves back home with their high-energy twin fiddles of Tory Horner and Annie McDougal, and the dynamic rhythm guitar of Rosemary Powell.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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!
A long-time contra dancer, Sue Gola was drawn into calling contras in 2014. Since then, she has called at dances both large and small throughout the Northeast. Sue gives instructions concisely and clearly and has a friendly way about her that makes dancers feel welcome.
Hailing from New England, Chimney Swift hatched out of a fortuitous Youth Dance Weekend rideshare in 2015 when Cecile Leroy, a classically trained cellist, and Avalon, a lapsed pianist and self-taught accordionist, ended up in a car for three hours together. They started jamming regularly and decided to take their show on the road. With the addition of Daniel Raine, a prog-rock and fingerstyle guitarist who had recently fallen in love with the hearty sound of the cittern, and Yaron Shragai, a versatile international music and dance leader with a well-spent youth in industrial and techno, the band has developed an exciting and unique sound as one of the few groups on the dance circuit without a fiddler.
Chimney Swift draws inspiration from Anglo-American songs and dance tunes, multiple Celtic traditions, a smattering of international styles, and whatever off the wall idea someone mentioned as a joke in practice the previous week. Chimney Swift features Avalon Zoë Madonna on accordion and vocals, Daniel Raine on cittern, ukulele, guitar, and vocals, Cecile Leroy on cello, jaw harp, and vocals, and Yaron Shragai on whistles, percussion, and vocals.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Never bland or blasé, Bosnick & Bittel bestow a bright and beautiful bonanza of bountiful bodacious brazen boisterous beats to bewitch or becalm. Donna’s bailiwick brings buoyant balances brimming with bliss. Not to belabor or bemoan with bluster or ballyhoo, but it behooves us to beseech you to believe the buzz.
The dance will finish early so everyone can get to the Holiday Party three miles away.
Having garnered an excellent national reputation, we are proud that Donna Hunt developed her calling chops at Swingin’ Tern Dances. Calling contras with interesting choreography and variations, Donna is known for utilizing clear, concise instructions to minimize teaching time and maximize dance time. Donna infuses the dancers with confidence, regardless of their skill level, and she enjoys guiding new dancers and challenging experienced ones.
Anna Bosnick is a fiddler from New Jersey. Aaron Bittel is a pianist from Connecticut. Together they are Bosnick & Bittel. With the attitude of “Down to Clown” they bring together an eclectic mix of traditional and modern styles, heavily influenced by the music of Eastern Canada and New England, with a healthy dose of Celtic and Southern American and a willingness to improv.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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!
NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE
A Swingin’ Tern tradition for over 35 years!
Pot Luck Dinner 6:30pm–Please bring a entree or sidedish to share.
Dancing from 8pm to 12:30am–including the fabulous dessert break [bring a dessert to share] and midnight toast!
Admission:
Adults $25 before 12/25; $30 after 12/26 and at the door.
Students $12 before 12/25; $15 after 12/26 and at the door.
Advanced tickets will go on sale in early November
All of our dances are called to Larks & Robins.
Masks and vaccinations optional.
Michael Karcher got hooked on contra dance and ECD at Swarthmore College and fed his habit at CDNY in New York City. He started calling after moving to Seattle and honed a clear, friendly style over the next decade before returning to the east coast. Michael now calls events across the US and Canada, and dreams of bringing contra dance to Japan and taking contra dance away from France (just kidding). He helps with the Lehigh Valley contra dance and is a coordinating caller in Philadelphia. Off the dance floor, Michael teaches statistics as an assistant professor at Muhlenberg College.
From Quebec to Georgia and everywhere in between, Spintuition has been making a splash on the contradance scene. With Samuel Foucher on accordion, Willy Clemetson on fiddle and foot percussion, and Silas Hamilton laying down the groove on Guitar, this trio has a grasp of dynamics and dance energy that has been honed over many years of playing dances together. Based mostly in the Northeast, Spintuition was formed in 2018 and has gone on to be featured up and down the East Coast at some of the biggest dances, such as Glen Echo, Montpelier, Belfast, and BIDA and at weekend such as Atlanta Dance Weekend, Cabin Fever and Winter CDH. In addition to playing dances, they also sing in bold three part harmony. Presenting a compelling mixture of spicy new tunes and glorious old ones, Spintuition has cultivated a vital sound that will leave you hungry for more.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
-
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks 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.
- 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!
Come and meet those dancing feet at the 42nd Anniversary of Swingin’ Tern Dances.
Bob Isaacs will be coordinating a Cavalcade of Callers for our 42nd Anniversary. Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob who is known for his clear, concise calling. He is a prolific contra choreographer—his creative dances are called throughout the country. Bob is also known for his unusual dance forms: the Zia is a literal cross between a square and a contra while Bob’s grid squares provide a wild ride.
Raven & Goose features virtuoso violinist, Corwin Zekley was born with a fiddle in their hands and plays with an intensity yet delicacy that pulls on the heartstrings of all who hear them. Corwin has eclectic musical roots, and enchants audiences playing anything from Celtic to Jazz to Country to Metal. Corwin studied at the Berklee College of Music, has played thousands of concerts, appeared on dozens of records, and has published books and albums of their own compositions.
Grace Fellows grew up playing traditional musics on fiddle, and she synthesized her broad musical influences while studying at Calarts, and doing her masters at BIMM London. She became an accomplished pianist while performing as a singer/songwriter, and in the last years has become a powerhouse contra-pianist whose potent sense of rhythm will propel you around the dance floor.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Gan Ainm [Irish for “without name”]
On the first part of the journey
I was dancing at Swingin’ Tern
There were heys and chains and stars and things
There were calls and tunes and swings
The first thing I found was a dance hall abuzz
And such joy with no bounds
The tunes were hot, and the calls renowned
And the air was full of sound
You see I’ve been to Swingin’ Tern
With a band with no name
With slick tunes that came down like the rain
At Swingin’ Tern, you can remember your name
‘Cause your friends are there and you’re home to remain.
Dave Rupp has been an active dancer and caller in the Philadelphia region since the 90’s, calling regularly at the Mt Airy Thursday Night Contra, and at dances in Princeton and Arden, DE. He has also called at the Valley Contra in Bethlehem, and at dances in Baltimore and Glen Echo, MD. Dave enjoys calling a varied program of dances with good humor and an energetic style.
Gan Ainm, featuring Sean Rosenberry and Steven Czajkowski, is an energetic duo of Irish musicians from NYC. Sean’s fiery fiddle tunes backed by Steven’s driving rhythm guitar is a combination guaranteed to keep you on your toes and on the dance floor!
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Riehl runs real and Rendezvous reels out reels to rein in the randy retinue of rabble rousers. A rhapsody of rhythm and rhyme from rosin, resin, and resonant refrains ricochets round the room to riotous rave reviews.
Long seen on the dance stage playing cello with the Princeton Pick-up Band and more recently with Strings Attached, Christie Riehl has taken up the caller’s mike. She is known for her engaging personality that pulls dancers onto the floor with her welcoming calling.
Rendezvous is a trio of high energy musicians meeting to generate joy and movement on the dance floor. Jared Bishop is an exciting new fiddler on the Philadelphia music scene, playing in several groups for local dancing. Mat Clark has long been a dynamic force as fiddler with Raise the Roof, Hot Feet, Pieces of Eight and many more. Bob Pasquarello plays piano and lays down the foundation for great dancing whenever he plays.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
It may be contraintuitive that the contraband Contra Intuitive contains no contrabassoon, contrabass, or contrafogatto. In contradistinction, they contraposition contrapunctual contracts. Carter’s contras contribute contrails of contentment. Contrarians are contraindicated.
Carter North has been dancing throughout the country since 2014 and started calling to deepen his understanding of contra dance as a form. He participated in Brooklyn Contra’s Caller Development workshop series in 2023 and apprenticed through a grant from NYSCA. He brings his love of social dance to the mic, with a focus on creating a joyful experience for dancers of all experience levels.
Contra Intuitive features Ryck and Peggy Kaiser who combine their musical talents to provide lively dance music for contra dances, square dances, and civil war reenactment balls. Ryck has been fiddling for dances for over thirty years. His sound is southern Appalachian with a raggy, swinging feel. Expect to hear reels, rags, marches and a few jigs. Peggy is a retired music teacher and in addition to the piano, she plays the Appalachian mountain dulcimer. An experienced clinician, Peggy has taught workshops throughout Pennsylvania.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 adults/$5 students
5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop
7:30 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students.
Adina Gordon finds an outlet for her loves of travel, music, dance and silliness by calling and dancing throughout the U.S. and Canada, facilitating joy and minor chaos wherever she goes. Combining a voice that makes you WANT to do what she says with a commitment to using that power for good and not evil, Adina calls dances both old and new that cause spontaneous eruptions of joy on the dance floor. She counts it as a job well done whenever anyone says, “I don’t really like squares, but they’re fun when you call them.”
With a 25+ year history, The Moving Violations have a playful energy that transcends the borders of countries and encourages spontaneity and improvisation. The band brings driving fiddle harmonies, strong rhythm, and collective groove and flow to the dance floor.
Original compositions as well as tunes from Ireland, Scotland, Cape Breton, New England, Eastern Europe, Sweden, and Eastern Europe are all fair game for The Moving Violations.
The band features Ron Grosslein on fiddle and percussion, Autumn Rose Lester on fiddle, and Eric Eid-Reiner on piano.
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.
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- We have open windows on three sides and air-conditioning when needed.
- 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!
Hailing from Boston, Harris Lapiroff says, “I strive for an efficient, friendly calling style that adapts to halls of any skill level.”
Here on the Hill is three musicians who can’t resist playing together. The Boston-based trio has been making waves back home with their high-energy twin fiddles of Tory Horner and Annie McDougal, and the dynamic rhythm guitar of Rosemary Powell.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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!
A long-time contra dancer, Sue Gola was drawn into calling contras in 2014. Since then, she has called at dances both large and small throughout the Northeast. Sue gives instructions concisely and clearly and has a friendly way about her that makes dancers feel welcome.
Hailing from New England, Chimney Swift hatched out of a fortuitous Youth Dance Weekend rideshare in 2015 when Cecile Leroy, a classically trained cellist, and Avalon, a lapsed pianist and self-taught accordionist, ended up in a car for three hours together. They started jamming regularly and decided to take their show on the road. With the addition of Daniel Raine, a prog-rock and fingerstyle guitarist who had recently fallen in love with the hearty sound of the cittern, and Yaron Shragai, a versatile international music and dance leader with a well-spent youth in industrial and techno, the band has developed an exciting and unique sound as one of the few groups on the dance circuit without a fiddler.
Chimney Swift draws inspiration from Anglo-American songs and dance tunes, multiple Celtic traditions, a smattering of international styles, and whatever off the wall idea someone mentioned as a joke in practice the previous week. Chimney Swift features Avalon Zoë Madonna on accordion and vocals, Daniel Raine on cittern, ukulele, guitar, and vocals, Cecile Leroy on cello, jaw harp, and vocals, and Yaron Shragai on whistles, percussion, and vocals.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Never bland or blasé, Bosnick & Bittel bestow a bright and beautiful bonanza of bountiful bodacious brazen boisterous beats to bewitch or becalm. Donna’s bailiwick brings buoyant balances brimming with bliss. Not to belabor or bemoan with bluster or ballyhoo, but it behooves us to beseech you to believe the buzz.
The dance will finish early so everyone can get to the Holiday Party three miles away.
Having garnered an excellent national reputation, we are proud that Donna Hunt developed her calling chops at Swingin’ Tern Dances. Calling contras with interesting choreography and variations, Donna is known for utilizing clear, concise instructions to minimize teaching time and maximize dance time. Donna infuses the dancers with confidence, regardless of their skill level, and she enjoys guiding new dancers and challenging experienced ones.
Anna Bosnick is a fiddler from New Jersey. Aaron Bittel is a pianist from Connecticut. Together they are Bosnick & Bittel. With the attitude of “Down to Clown” they bring together an eclectic mix of traditional and modern styles, heavily influenced by the music of Eastern Canada and New England, with a healthy dose of Celtic and Southern American and a willingness to improv.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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!
NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE
A Swingin’ Tern tradition for over 35 years!
Pot Luck Dinner 6:30pm–Please bring a entree or sidedish to share.
Dancing from 8pm to 12:30am–including the fabulous dessert break [bring a dessert to share] and midnight toast!
Admission:
Adults $25 before 12/25; $30 after 12/26 and at the door.
Students $12 before 12/25; $15 after 12/26 and at the door.
Advanced tickets will go on sale in early November
All of our dances are called to Larks & Robins.
Masks and vaccinations optional.
Michael Karcher got hooked on contra dance and ECD at Swarthmore College and fed his habit at CDNY in New York City. He started calling after moving to Seattle and honed a clear, friendly style over the next decade before returning to the east coast. Michael now calls events across the US and Canada, and dreams of bringing contra dance to Japan and taking contra dance away from France (just kidding). He helps with the Lehigh Valley contra dance and is a coordinating caller in Philadelphia. Off the dance floor, Michael teaches statistics as an assistant professor at Muhlenberg College.
From Quebec to Georgia and everywhere in between, Spintuition has been making a splash on the contradance scene. With Samuel Foucher on accordion, Willy Clemetson on fiddle and foot percussion, and Silas Hamilton laying down the groove on Guitar, this trio has a grasp of dynamics and dance energy that has been honed over many years of playing dances together. Based mostly in the Northeast, Spintuition was formed in 2018 and has gone on to be featured up and down the East Coast at some of the biggest dances, such as Glen Echo, Montpelier, Belfast, and BIDA and at weekend such as Atlanta Dance Weekend, Cabin Fever and Winter CDH. In addition to playing dances, they also sing in bold three part harmony. Presenting a compelling mixture of spicy new tunes and glorious old ones, Spintuition has cultivated a vital sound that will leave you hungry for more.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
-
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks 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.
- 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!
Come and meet those dancing feet at the 42nd Anniversary of Swingin’ Tern Dances.
Bob Isaacs will be coordinating a Cavalcade of Callers for our 42nd Anniversary. Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob who is known for his clear, concise calling. He is a prolific contra choreographer—his creative dances are called throughout the country. Bob is also known for his unusual dance forms: the Zia is a literal cross between a square and a contra while Bob’s grid squares provide a wild ride.
Raven & Goose features virtuoso violinist, Corwin Zekley was born with a fiddle in their hands and plays with an intensity yet delicacy that pulls on the heartstrings of all who hear them. Corwin has eclectic musical roots, and enchants audiences playing anything from Celtic to Jazz to Country to Metal. Corwin studied at the Berklee College of Music, has played thousands of concerts, appeared on dozens of records, and has published books and albums of their own compositions.
Grace Fellows grew up playing traditional musics on fiddle, and she synthesized her broad musical influences while studying at Calarts, and doing her masters at BIMM London. She became an accomplished pianist while performing as a singer/songwriter, and in the last years has become a powerhouse contra-pianist whose potent sense of rhythm will propel you around the dance floor.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Gan Ainm [Irish for “without name”]
On the first part of the journey
I was dancing at Swingin’ Tern
There were heys and chains and stars and things
There were calls and tunes and swings
The first thing I found was a dance hall abuzz
And such joy with no bounds
The tunes were hot, and the calls renowned
And the air was full of sound
You see I’ve been to Swingin’ Tern
With a band with no name
With slick tunes that came down like the rain
At Swingin’ Tern, you can remember your name
‘Cause your friends are there and you’re home to remain.
Dave Rupp has been an active dancer and caller in the Philadelphia region since the 90’s, calling regularly at the Mt Airy Thursday Night Contra, and at dances in Princeton and Arden, DE. He has also called at the Valley Contra in Bethlehem, and at dances in Baltimore and Glen Echo, MD. Dave enjoys calling a varied program of dances with good humor and an energetic style.
Gan Ainm, featuring Sean Rosenberry and Steven Czajkowski, is an energetic duo of Irish musicians from NYC. Sean’s fiery fiddle tunes backed by Steven’s driving rhythm guitar is a combination guaranteed to keep you on your toes and on the dance floor!
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Riehl runs real and Rendezvous reels out reels to rein in the randy retinue of rabble rousers. A rhapsody of rhythm and rhyme from rosin, resin, and resonant refrains ricochets round the room to riotous rave reviews.
Long seen on the dance stage playing cello with the Princeton Pick-up Band and more recently with Strings Attached, Christie Riehl has taken up the caller’s mike. She is known for her engaging personality that pulls dancers onto the floor with her welcoming calling.
Rendezvous is a trio of high energy musicians meeting to generate joy and movement on the dance floor. Jared Bishop is an exciting new fiddler on the Philadelphia music scene, playing in several groups for local dancing. Mat Clark has long been a dynamic force as fiddler with Raise the Roof, Hot Feet, Pieces of Eight and many more. Bob Pasquarello plays piano and lays down the foundation for great dancing whenever he plays.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
It may be contraintuitive that the contraband Contra Intuitive contains no contrabassoon, contrabass, or contrafogatto. In contradistinction, they contraposition contrapunctual contracts. Carter’s contras contribute contrails of contentment. Contrarians are contraindicated.
Carter North has been dancing throughout the country since 2014 and started calling to deepen his understanding of contra dance as a form. He participated in Brooklyn Contra’s Caller Development workshop series in 2023 and apprenticed through a grant from NYSCA. He brings his love of social dance to the mic, with a focus on creating a joyful experience for dancers of all experience levels.
Contra Intuitive features Ryck and Peggy Kaiser who combine their musical talents to provide lively dance music for contra dances, square dances, and civil war reenactment balls. Ryck has been fiddling for dances for over thirty years. His sound is southern Appalachian with a raggy, swinging feel. Expect to hear reels, rags, marches and a few jigs. Peggy is a retired music teacher and in addition to the piano, she plays the Appalachian mountain dulcimer. An experienced clinician, Peggy has taught workshops throughout Pennsylvania.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
DOUBLE DANCE
3:45 – 5:45 pm **Afternoon Advanced Contras $20 adults/$5 students
5:45 – 7:00 pm Dinner Break at the many walkable Chatham restaurants
7:00 – 7:30 pm Beginners’ Workshop
7:30 – 10:30pm All-Level Evening Dance $20 adults/$5 students
Combo admission for both sessions $35/$10 students.
Adina Gordon finds an outlet for her loves of travel, music, dance and silliness by calling and dancing throughout the U.S. and Canada, facilitating joy and minor chaos wherever she goes. Combining a voice that makes you WANT to do what she says with a commitment to using that power for good and not evil, Adina calls dances both old and new that cause spontaneous eruptions of joy on the dance floor. She counts it as a job well done whenever anyone says, “I don’t really like squares, but they’re fun when you call them.”
With a 25+ year history, The Moving Violations have a playful energy that transcends the borders of countries and encourages spontaneity and improvisation. The band brings driving fiddle harmonies, strong rhythm, and collective groove and flow to the dance floor.
Original compositions as well as tunes from Ireland, Scotland, Cape Breton, New England, Eastern Europe, Sweden, and Eastern Europe are all fair game for The Moving Violations.
The band features Ron Grosslein on fiddle and percussion, Autumn Rose Lester on fiddle, and Eric Eid-Reiner on piano.
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.
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks are optional.
- All dances at Swingin’ Tern are called to the gender-neutral terms Larks & Robins.
- **The Afternoon Advanced Contras session is for Experienced Contra Dancers only. You should be familiar with ricochet heys, petronellas, Rorey O’More, pass the ocean, orbits, etc., with minimal prompting. If not, please join us for the evening dance.
- We have open windows on three sides and air-conditioning when needed.
- 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!
Hailing from Boston, Harris Lapiroff says, “I strive for an efficient, friendly calling style that adapts to halls of any skill level.”
Here on the Hill is three musicians who can’t resist playing together. The Boston-based trio has been making waves back home with their high-energy twin fiddles of Tory Horner and Annie McDougal, and the dynamic rhythm guitar of Rosemary Powell.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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!
A long-time contra dancer, Sue Gola was drawn into calling contras in 2014. Since then, she has called at dances both large and small throughout the Northeast. Sue gives instructions concisely and clearly and has a friendly way about her that makes dancers feel welcome.
Hailing from New England, Chimney Swift hatched out of a fortuitous Youth Dance Weekend rideshare in 2015 when Cecile Leroy, a classically trained cellist, and Avalon, a lapsed pianist and self-taught accordionist, ended up in a car for three hours together. They started jamming regularly and decided to take their show on the road. With the addition of Daniel Raine, a prog-rock and fingerstyle guitarist who had recently fallen in love with the hearty sound of the cittern, and Yaron Shragai, a versatile international music and dance leader with a well-spent youth in industrial and techno, the band has developed an exciting and unique sound as one of the few groups on the dance circuit without a fiddler.
Chimney Swift draws inspiration from Anglo-American songs and dance tunes, multiple Celtic traditions, a smattering of international styles, and whatever off the wall idea someone mentioned as a joke in practice the previous week. Chimney Swift features Avalon Zoë Madonna on accordion and vocals, Daniel Raine on cittern, ukulele, guitar, and vocals, Cecile Leroy on cello, jaw harp, and vocals, and Yaron Shragai on whistles, percussion, and vocals.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!
Never bland or blasé, Bosnick & Bittel bestow a bright and beautiful bonanza of bountiful bodacious brazen boisterous beats to bewitch or becalm. Donna’s bailiwick brings buoyant balances brimming with bliss. Not to belabor or bemoan with bluster or ballyhoo, but it behooves us to beseech you to believe the buzz.
The dance will finish early so everyone can get to the Holiday Party three miles away.
Having garnered an excellent national reputation, we are proud that Donna Hunt developed her calling chops at Swingin’ Tern Dances. Calling contras with interesting choreography and variations, Donna is known for utilizing clear, concise instructions to minimize teaching time and maximize dance time. Donna infuses the dancers with confidence, regardless of their skill level, and she enjoys guiding new dancers and challenging experienced ones.
Anna Bosnick is a fiddler from New Jersey. Aaron Bittel is a pianist from Connecticut. Together they are Bosnick & Bittel. With the attitude of “Down to Clown” they bring together an eclectic mix of traditional and modern styles, heavily influenced by the music of Eastern Canada and New England, with a healthy dose of Celtic and Southern American and a willingness to improv.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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!
NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE
A Swingin’ Tern tradition for over 35 years!
Pot Luck Dinner 6:30pm–Please bring a entree or sidedish to share.
Dancing from 8pm to 12:30am–including the fabulous dessert break [bring a dessert to share] and midnight toast!
Admission:
Adults $25 before 12/25; $30 after 12/26 and at the door.
Students $12 before 12/25; $15 after 12/26 and at the door.
Advanced tickets will go on sale in early November
All of our dances are called to Larks & Robins.
Masks and vaccinations optional.
Michael Karcher got hooked on contra dance and ECD at Swarthmore College and fed his habit at CDNY in New York City. He started calling after moving to Seattle and honed a clear, friendly style over the next decade before returning to the east coast. Michael now calls events across the US and Canada, and dreams of bringing contra dance to Japan and taking contra dance away from France (just kidding). He helps with the Lehigh Valley contra dance and is a coordinating caller in Philadelphia. Off the dance floor, Michael teaches statistics as an assistant professor at Muhlenberg College.
Video: Spintuition at Glen Echo
From Quebec to Georgia and everywhere in between, Spintuition has been making a splash on the contradance scene. With Samuel Foucher on accordion, Willy Clemetson on fiddle and foot percussion, and Silas Hamilton laying down the groove on Guitar, this trio has a grasp of dynamics and dance energy that has been honed over many years of playing dances together. Based mostly in the Northeast, Spintuition was formed in 2018 and has gone on to be featured up and down the East Coast at some of the biggest dances, such as Glen Echo, Montpelier, Belfast, and BIDA and at weekend such as Atlanta Dance Weekend, Cabin Fever and Winter CDH. In addition to playing dances, they also sing in bold three part harmony. Presenting a compelling mixture of spicy new tunes and glorious old ones, Spintuition has cultivated a vital sound that will leave you hungry for more.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
-
- We no longer require vaccination. Masks 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.
- 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!
Come and meet those dancing feet at the 42nd Anniversary of Swingin’ Tern Dances.
Bob Isaacs will be coordinating a Cavalcade of Callers for our 42nd Anniversary. Swingin’ Tern is fortunate to have had a close relationship with Bob who is known for his clear, concise calling. He is a prolific contra choreographer—his creative dances are called throughout the country. Bob is also known for his unusual dance forms: the Zia is a literal cross between a square and a contra while Bob’s grid squares provide a wild ride.
Video: Raven & Goose compilation
Raven & Goose features virtuoso violinist, Corwin Zekley was born with a fiddle in their hands and plays with an intensity yet delicacy that pulls on the heartstrings of all who hear them. Corwin has eclectic musical roots, and enchants audiences playing anything from Celtic to Jazz to Country to Metal. Corwin studied at the Berklee College of Music, has played thousands of concerts, appeared on dozens of records, and has published books and albums of their own compositions.
Grace Fellows grew up playing traditional musics on fiddle, and she synthesized her broad musical influences while studying at Calarts, and doing her masters at BIMM London. She became an accomplished pianist while performing as a singer/songwriter, and in the last years has become a powerhouse contra-pianist whose potent sense of rhythm will propel you around the dance floor.
USEFUL INFORMATION:
- We have a sliding admission scale of $15 to $20+ for adults. If you are able, you can allow us to continue booking this amazing talent by paying $20 or more at the door. If that’s a stretch, stay at the regular $15 or volunteer and get in for free. Student admission is $5.
- 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 orange Igloo cooler.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Contra dancing is aerobic. We prefer you carry in your shoes.
- We are a friendly, inclusive group. Pack plenty of smiles!