"Don’t waste ’em whilst you’ve got ’em"

01/17/2025

I’ll fully admit that I am rather disparaging of modern contra dances. This is perhaps why I cringe when I see dancers encourage clapping on the turn in “Petronella”, or callers calling it with all couples active. I don't hold a grudge, but I don’t see the necessity of it. Perhaps this is my problem (having only been in this community for about 2 years) but I am a traditionalist at heart.

However, as I was at Ralph Page Legacy weekend in Worcester last weekend, I observed a few things I wanted to comment on as my first blog post (hopefully that will become more regular, about two a month) of 2025. So, here we go.

Low attendance this year at RPLW. At least comparatively to what I saw last year as well as what I observe on videos of previous years. Winter weather, sickness, travel concerns… Those all probably contributed to this low ebb. Hopefully that doesn’t last. However this is not what I am here to talk about as I have talked about at length about the lack of younger dancers.

What I am here to talk about is the flatlining of creativity within the dance community. Very few people dance with any sort of personal style that suits their way of dancing. There are a few, and the rest do dance differently than each other, however there is very little wiggle-room in terms of how people do the movements. Take balances, for example. From what I have heard, there used to be quite a few people that played around with how they balanced. The New England way of dancing seems to be disappearing in favor of a wider, more nationwide, dare I say bland version. Rather like our disappearing state and regionally dependent accents due to the presence of TV/radio.

When did we decide that everyone should dance the same? In the past, I have been informed rather haughtily by some dancers that I balance wrong, since I use my New Hampshire step swing in most cases. In some instances it is easier for me to use a forward and back (the dueling balance, as Dudley Laufman cynically terms it), because my partner is so insistent on shoving me away and then pulling me back. I’m about to start using a Boston Stomp just so people slow down a little.

I imagine most of this is because the modern generations, starting with the ones born in the 60s, were very seldom taught to dance properly. I could be wrong, and forgive me if I am, but this is what I have gathered from talking to people. By that time, being taught or socially adapting to being able to dance things like swing, two-steps, or sociable waltzing were out of vogue. This has only fallen further into disrepair the younger the generations get. By the time you get to my generation, Gen Z, frankly, we have no idea how to socially dance. We are very disconnected to our bodies (thanks, modern technology + Covid-19), and thus have no idea how to interact with each other on a respectful dance basis. There is a difference between dancing, such as witnessed on TikTok and most social media platforms and in clubs nowadays, I imagine, and socially dancing on a respectful basis with people of all ages or even people our own age. It requires a different awareness and proprioception.

However, even within the established contra dance community, there is almost a distaste for the older dances, such as Moneymusk, Petronella, Hull's Victory, Darling Nelly Grey… the list goes on. Dances that were frequently found on dance programmes as late as the 1950s- 60s. Why is there such a distaste, such a rolling of eyes and complaining about dances that are either, depending on the person, considered too hard or too easy? What is wrong with doing a square like Darling Nelly Grey or Crooked Stovepipe within the course of an evening? It would add some zest into a dance. I would argue that dances that are all in the same vein as Charismatic Megafauna don’t make for a very varied evening.

Is simple so bad? Would it bore so many dancers to do a Virginia reel, where, heaven forbid, you are inactive at times? Those aren’t just dances for kids. Yet, somehow, there is a pushback and I have yet to find a reasonable answer as to why those older dances aren’t done at most modern contra dances. They aren’t just called indiscriminately. If the aim of contra dancing is to have fun, then why do modern dancers seem to require more and more difficult and fast dances? Those have their time and place in an evening, but they should not make up the bulk. What happened to having a Gay Gordons, Polka, or schottishe in an evening to break up the dances? The Nelson dance does some of those, as well as a few other select dances. However, I have very seldom seen a dance at Peterboro Town Hall, for example, that included these, other than those called by Tod Wittemore and I’m sure a few others at that lovely hall.

I also can never seem to get a standard opinion about why the old dances fell out of popularity. Some say they are too hard, others say they are too easy, and yet a third opinion is that nobody wants to be inactive. So, which is it? And why? The dance community has seemingly forgotten its roots… which is a terrible thing. If one doesn’t prefer these dances, and that’s okay, why can’t they graciously allow it on a semi irregular basis? Just so everyone remembers why and how dances used to be.

Just a thought. Don’t forget the old ways or the old guards of dancing. Allow both the older dances and older dancers/callers to inform you of how things used to be, or else we risk these things being faded into the distant sunset, only to be acknowledged by people who end up googling, “how contra dancing used to be”. You have the resources and the very knowledgeable old guard that you haven’t lost yet, take advantage of that. These individuals are living archives of tradition. They’ve spent decades dancing, calling, and preserving the very culture that younger generations are now inheriting. Yet too often, their knowledge is overlooked or dismissed.

We need to listen to their stories, watch their movements, and ask them to teach us the finer points of these dances. There’s a grace and depth in their version of dancing that can’t be learned from videos or workshops. It comes from years of experience, from understanding the social and musical context of every move. We need to cherish these tradition bearers. Dance beside them, listen, learn from them, and thank them for carrying this culture forward.

Don’t waste ‘em whilst you got ‘em.

Inclusivity and the Importance of Preserving Traditional New England Social Dances\n

10/02/2024

(A Reflection for Dysautonomia Awareness Month)

First off, hello! If you don’t know me already, I’m Rivkah Valley, and welcome to Checkerberry Place. In this corner of the internet, I dive into everything related to Traditional New England Dance, Music, and Culture.

As October rolls around, it’s important to highlight that this month is Dysautonomia Awareness Month. You might be wondering—what exactly is dysautonomia? Well, dysautonomia refers to a group of disorders that affect the autonomic nervous system (ANS). This system controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and more. For people with dysautonomia, the ANS doesn’t function as it should, leading to symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, rapid heart rate, and fainting. Everyday activities, even something as simple as standing, can become a real challenge.

Well… In my particular case, I have POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). I gained this particular diagnosis after suffering through Covid twice in 2022. Thankfully I am not prone to fainting- it just makes my life a little more challenging. If you see me pause and perhaps lean against a wall at any particular dance, my brain has temporarily decided to panic about blood oxygenating my brain- so it sends a signal to my heart to speed up the process, which in turn causes my heart to race/cause temporary vision issues.

The State of Modern Contra and Its Impact on Health

In the world of Traditional New England Social Dances, there’s an old saying: “If you can walk, you can dance.” It speaks to the welcoming and inclusive spirit of traditional dance—a space where anyone, regardless of experience or ability, could find joy and community. However, as I’ve observed over the years, Modern Contra Dance is evolving into something entirely different, and while evolution in art forms is natural, it raises some important concerns, especially when it comes to health and accessibility.

Traditional dances were designed to be community-oriented, slower-paced, and less physically demanding. There were breaks for inactive couples, allowing for rest, observation, and the chance to absorb the beauty of the dance without constantly being in motion. But in modern contra, these moments of pause have largely disappeared. The dances are faster, more energetic, and participants are expected to move constantly.

There is an increasing trend toward complex and flamboyant choreography that demands high energy throughout the evening. This presents a problem, not just for those with health issues like POTS or other forms of dysautonomia, but for anyone who might not have the stamina or experience to keep up. The rise in elaborate swings, twirls, and fast-paced movements can overwhelm even seasoned dancers. While a few energetic dances are certainly welcome during an evening, an entire night filled with them can be taxing and exclusive.

The Loss of Imagination and Creative Dance

One of the unintended casualties of this shift in pace is the loss of the imaginative nature that pauses and inactivity once allowed. In older forms of contra and traditional dances, those moments of rest created space for creativity—dancers could invent their own unique balances, incorporate shuffle clogging, or execute moves like the graceful pigeon wing. These moments allowed dancers to show off their individual flair and connect with their partners in a more expressive, less hurried way.

When was the last time you saw someone balancing with a pigeon wing? It’s a rarity nowadays. That creativity, which used to be a hallmark of traditional social dances, has largely fallen by the wayside in favor of constant, high-energy motion. There’s something lost when we sacrifice these creative interludes. Dances used to be full of character and personal expression, which added to the beauty and community spirit. The absence of these imaginative breaks feels like a missed opportunity for dancers to connect with the history and artistry of these traditions.

The Accessibility Challenge

Here’s the thing—Modern Contra Dance isn’t as health, age, or ability inclusive as its more traditional counterparts. For someone new to the dance, or for those managing physical limitations, the expectations of speed and energy can feel daunting. If you’re struggling to keep up or find yourself out of breath halfway through a set, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a barrier.

When I first entered the contra scene, I quickly realized that twirling during a promenade wasn’t going to work for me. The constant motion and need for balance triggered my POTS symptoms, making me dizzy and uncomfortable. I can handle a well metered swing, not horribly fast but not slow either, but not that expectation of twirling. Yes, you can always politely ask not to be twirled, but when you’re new, it’s often hard to voice those preferences. And the expectation, whether overt or not, is that you should be throwing yourself into the dance, moving with energy, and keeping up with the rhythm. But what if you can’t?

There’s also the issue of modern contras being less forgiving when it comes to mistakes. In older dances, if you got a bit lost, your neighbors would gently guide you back into the set, and you had a moment to catch your breath. Today, the pace is so relentless that if you fall behind even for a second, it can disrupt the entire group’s phrasing. That pressure can make the experience intimidating for beginners and physically taxing for those with any health issues, even age related.

What about accessibility? In traditional dances, like the Gallopede, it’s perfectly feasible to participate in a wheelchair with a partner helping to move along. However, in more energetic and physically demanding dances, like Charismatic Megafauna, such accommodations would be near impossible. By emphasizing only these high-energy, fast-paced dances, the modern contra scene inadvertently alienates those who need a slower pace or who rely on physical assistance to participate.

Why Preserving Traditional Dances Matters

Let’s take a step back and think about the historical significance of these dances. Traditional New England Social Dances are not just a fun pastime; they’re a part of our cultural heritage. There’s a fine line between modernizing an art form and losing the essence of what made it special in the first place. When we abandon the older, more arguably health/age inclusive dances, we risk not only excluding people who can’t keep up with modern contra but also erasing a vital connection to our past.

Each of these dances has a story. They were developed in rural communities where dancing was one of the few opportunities for social interaction. These dances helped bring people together, and they did so in a way that made sure everyone could participate. Are we in danger of losing that spirit? Are we sacrificing inclusivity for the sake of making dances flashier and more exciting?

There’s a balance we need to find—one that preserves the accessibility and community spirit of traditional dance while still allowing room for modern innovation. We shouldn’t throw out our heritage in the pursuit of making everything faster or more complex. To do so risks alienating not only those with health challenges but also beginners who might be intimidated by the fast pace and intricacy of modern contra.

A Healthier Dance Community

It’s important to remember that our dance communities are aging, and younger folks who are joining may very well have their own set of health challenges. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 25% of young adults in the U.S. have some form of chronic condition. If we want to ensure that contra and traditional social dance remain inclusive, we need to make space for everyone—regardless of age, ability, or health status. We can’t afford to push people away by creating an environment where only the most physically fit can thrive.

Incorporating more traditional dances with periods of rest or simpler movements can make a world of difference. It allows dancers to pace themselves, catch their breath, and truly enjoy the experience rather than feeling pressured to perform at a constant high energy level. Watching experienced dancers glide through a set with minimal effort is a joy in itself, and it’s something we should be promoting as a hallmark of our community—not the exception.

So, as we continue to dance, let’s remember where we came from and work together to create a space where everyone can feel welcome, included, and able to participate—no matter their physical limitations.

The Important Benefits of Traditional Dancing in Regards to Children.

08/17/2024

Hey all- I wanted to share some thoughts on something close to my heart: taking children to traditional New England social dances and/or encouraging your school to host dances or have someone come in to talk about them.

Adults know how much fun these dances are, but have you ever thought about the impact they can have on children? These gatherings are more than just an evening of fun—they offer valuable lessons for children’s mental, emotional, and social development.

One of the most special things about traditional New England social dances is their deep roots in history. Bringing children to these events helps them connect with a part of our cultural heritage. In an age of fast-paced technology, these dances remind us of the simpler, slower, and more meaningful ways people once gathered to celebrate life. Especially if you and your family live in New England. These dances are simple enough for anyone.

By engaging in this tradition, children learn historical empathy—the ability to connect emotionally with people of the past. They see firsthand how communities came together through music, dance, and shared rituals, which builds an understanding and appreciation for the way life used to be. They’re stepping into a living history lesson, gaining insights into how people interacted in a time before screens dominated our social world.

Dancing has always been a way to lift the spirits, and this is no different for children. The lively tunes, laughter, and camaraderie of these dances provide an instant mood boost. Dancing releases endorphins, helping children reduce anxiety and stress, much like it does for us adults. It’s physical activity that’s disguised as fun, which keeps them active and engaged without it feeling like exercise. I might also add that in our modern day the children’s mental health is even more at a tipping point.

Beyond that, the structure of the dances helps children develop focus, memory, and problem-solving skills. They listen to the caller, learn new patterns, and follow along with their partners—all of which encourage a healthy mindset of perseverance and learning.

Traditional New England dances are inherently social, and that’s one of the best things about them for children. They’ll learn the value of eye contact, respectful greetings, and cooperative movement. Some dances begin with small gestures—like a handshake or bow—which teaches manners in a way that’s both fun and deeply rooted in tradition. It reinforces the importance of kindness and respect when interacting with others, something that’s vital for social development. Respect is key, and they learn that quickly. They learn that dancing with their any-age partner requires adaptability, depending on how fast they swing, or what pace feels comfortable to both parties. These dances teach children how to collaborate. They must work together with their partners and the group to make the dance flow, fostering cooperation and teamwork. There’s no competition here, just pure, collective enjoyment. Simplicity at its finest.

The Importance of Physical Touch

Physical touch is an essential part of our lives, and for children, it’s important they learn healthy, respectful ways to engage with others. Traditional New England social dances offer a unique opportunity for children to experience innocent physical touch in a safe, structured environment. Holding hands during a balance or swing, offering a hand to their partner—these small, simple gestures create a sense of trust and connection.

Research shows that physical touch can reduce anxiety, build empathy, and enhance emotional well-being. In the context of these dances, it’s all about connection, fostering a sense of belonging, and feeling safe in the group. Children experience the joy of touch without any discomfort, learning how to respect boundaries while still forming meaningful bonds with others.

Encouraging Emotional & Social Growth

The beauty of traditional New England social dances is how they nurture emotional intelligence. As children dance with different partners, they develop flexibility, adaptability, and confidence in their social interactions. These dances offer a safe space for them to practice these skills without the pressures of everyday life.

Children also learn to communicate nonverbally through the movement of the dance, honing their ability to read social cues. It’s an environment where they can grow socially in a joyful, supportive setting, away from screens and distractions. It can also help to improve their attention spans.

One of the most profound lessons children learn at these dances is the value of teamwork. Everyone at the dance is working together to make the patterns flow smoothly. It’s not about individual performance; it’s about the shared experience. When children work together with their partners and the larger group, they’re learning how to cooperate and contribute to something bigger than themselves.

This teamwork extends beyond the dance floor and helps children in all areas of life—from school to friendships to other activities. It’s a chance for them to experience the joy of community and realize how their actions affect others.

“Alright, alright, this is great,” you say, “but my kids have to get to bed”

Firstly, some dances are a little bit earlier in the evening, especially family dances. But, if you are still hemming and hawing, as is expected, I know, we try to keep children on a schedule, but it’s sometimes okay to bend the rules every once in a while. Letting them stay up a bit late for an evening of old-time New Hampshire dancing is worth it. They’ll fall asleep afterward with smiles on their faces and memories they’ll carry with them for years to come. I’m sure in the past that children either fell asleep on a nearby bench or curled up in a corner- and in our modern day it is even more of a special experience for them to experience this wonder.

Experiences like this teach them that sometimes, it’s okay to let go of routine for something special. It’s a small sacrifice for the joy, learning, and sense of belonging they’ll gain from the evening…and I guarantee they’ll sleep well.

Traditional New England social dances have been a part of our heritage for generations, and there’s a reason they’ve endured. They bring people together in a way that few other activities do. When we bring children into this world of music and movement, we’re not only teaching them the steps of the dance, but also passing on the values of community, kindness, and respect.

So, consider bringing your children to a dance. They’ll gain a deeper understanding of our shared history while developing essential life skills that will serve them for years to come.

If you feel your children would benefit from this in their education, bring it up to your school activities board. Can’t hurt to encourage them to find someone to talk/run a dance at their school or homeschool co-op. These can also be earlier in the day and can definitely be more friendly for the younger littles.

As a graduated happy homeschooler I have to address my homeschooling families- If you take the children out enough, it counts as a PE credit and potentially a history credit depending on how you approach it and study it!

Let’s keep this wonderful tradition alive—one joyful swing and balance at a time.

Until next time, keep your feet close to the floor and your hearts open to the music!

— Rivkah Valley

Welcome to Music and Dances!

08/13/2024

Welcome to perhaps the most important part of my retreat here at Checkerberry Place- The Music and Dance blog.

This blog is for my thoughts on matters pertaining to dances (including contra dances) and music as a whole in the New England Tradition. My opinions of how traditional social dances are changing (I’m looking at you, forward and back balance) and how it used to be. We’ll explore the whys and wherefores of dances, describe the differences in “then” and “now”, attempt to explore the different ‘feels’ at dances then and now, and wander occasionally about how dances have impacted so much of our social culture here in New England. I will also be putting posts “ABOUT DANCES/WHAT ARE THESE THINGS” for your convenience whilst explaining to a clueless friend about dances- you can obviously just refer them to Checkerberry Place.

Oh, and I’ll be posting about dances I go to, perhaps have footage to post and I can’t forget about reviews for items that come in handy (ex: Fiddle pickups, amps, microphones, audio/sound equipment, instrument stuff… shoes, water bottles, socks, clothes, and other items). All in all, I’d like this to be a convenient resource space for all of us dancers and musicians.

Enjoy!

The Importance of Solid Footware and Good Soles

06/29/2024

The Significance of Solid Footwear and Good Soles in Dance

When it comes to dancing, what you wear on your feet can make a world of difference. I thought it’d be fun to chat about footwear and share some insights in an upcoming video on dance attire—keep an eye out for that on the channel!

For me, I typically lean towards my trusty tap shoes (basic Capezios) or my sturdy lace-up leather paddock boots. I like having a solid heel for when I want to throw in a bit of clogging, and ankle support is a must-have. But at dances, I’ve noticed most folks opt for one of three things:

Barefoot Dancing:

There's something nostalgic and free-spirited about dancing barefoot, especially at casual events. It lets you move freely, feel the floor better, and might even spare you from those dreaded blisters. Personally, it’s not my thing—I prefer some foot protection. It might not be the best if you have foot pain, and it’s definitely not for everyone, especially if you're not keen on being barefoot in public.

Soft Sole Dance Shoes:

I haven’t given these a whirl myself, but they look comfy and seem to be a hit with those who like that almost-barefoot feel. They usually have good soles, and suede ones are great for smooth swinging. Word is, though, they tend to wear out pretty fast.

Assorted Vintage and Modern Shoes:

There’s a whole mishmash of shoes out there that dancers swear by, from old bowling shoes to whatever feels good and lets you dance your heart out. If it feels good on your feet and lets you move, it’s probably a winner.

At the end of the day, it’s all about what works best for your dancing groove. Suede or smooth soles are tops in my book—they make swinging around a breeze. You definitely don’t want shoes that grip the floor like glue, slowing down your movements.

Picking out your dancing shoes isn’t just about looks—it’s about finding what lets you move with style and ease, so every step feels like a natural part of the rhythm.