WHO ARE WE?
WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING?
The Walla Walla Friends of Acoustic Music is a 501-c-3 non-profit organization incorporated in Washington state in 1985, which supports and promotes acoustic music and community contra dancing in the Walla Walla, Washington valley and surrounding Eastern Washington and Eastern Oregon area. Acoustic Music is played on instruments which are not electronically modified. (For concerts and dances the music is amplified with microphones to project the sound to a large audience).
Contra Dances-What are they?
If you've never been to a contra dance, you may be wondering what it is all about. The best way to learn, of course, is to come try it, but for those who need more encouragement, here is one dancer's description (and answers to frequently asked questions).
In summary (25 words or less), it's energetic, sociable dancing, kind of like square dancing, danced with a partner to live string band music, with the assistance of a caller.
Historically, during this century contra dancing spread from New England and now can be found throughout the country. It's an American form derived from English country dancing and its relatives from Scotland and Ireland and France, and it is a cousin of square dancing (or quadrilles).
Depending on who you ask, "contra" refers to the sense of being opposite your partner, or is a corruption of the French contredans (with the same meaning), which was their misinterpretation or misappropriation of "country" dancing from the English.
Choreographically, contra dancing is similar to old-time square dancing, using some of the same moves, like do-si-dos and left-hand-stars. However, the couples are arranged in a line of any length, rather than a square of four couples. Another similar form is the whole-set dance, such as the Virginia Reel. In general, each couple dances with one other couple one time through a tune, then progresses to dance with the next couple in the line with each repeat of the tune. The pattern of the dance is fitted to the phrasing of "32-bars" (64-beat) reels and jigs. A caller teaches each dance, then prompts the moves during the dance only as much as is needed by the dancers. A "contra dance" evening may also include the occasional circle, old-time squares, waltzes, polkas, and Swedish Hambos, and other forms too.
Socially, it's sociable, in that dancers tend to smile a lot, and forgive the inevitable occasional mistakes made by the experienced and inexperienced dancer. Newcomers are always welcome, and experienced dancers are ready to help - the best way to learn is to dance with an experienced dancer.
What it's not: It's in no way similar to country-western "line dancing." In contrast to modern western square dancing, although we offer a brief introduction to the feel of the dancing (15-30 minutes before the dance), no special classes are required; each evening starts with the simplest dances, and more complex dances are presented as the evening wears on. No special costumes are required, just make sure you'll be comfortable for the aerobic experience, and that your shoes are appropriate for what amounts to a long, fast walk on a very twisty path.
But, it's really hard to put into words the dizzy exhilaration of contra dancing, connection to others, and the driving energy of old-time music. You have to do it to love it.
Our public, old-time dances are held generally twice a month, (see schedule). They feature live music and include traditional country or contra dances, circles, squares, waltzes, and other forms of social dancing. Children are welcome--it’s a great family experience. No alcohol is allowed, but bring snacks to share. Dance your socks off!
Also, Whitman College has formed a Contra/Folk Dance Club which schedules dances at Whitman College's Reid Center Ballroom, usually midweek early in the month during the school year. These dances are free and open to all and feature Whitman’s band, Big Joe, and local callers.
Come to our events and activities! All welcome!
