Contra Dance Music Workshop

At 3 o'clock on August 1st a group of 13 musicians gathered at the Cornwall Town Hall for a workshop led by contra dance caller and musician David Kaynor.

And, as in all musical gatherings, the first thing we did was tune up.

Starting with the song Simple Gifts and then introducing ourselves.

Some scales, arpeggios and tune sketches in the key of G followed. Once we knew the tune, as much harmonization as possible was encouraged. “If in the key of G and you’re playing any note in the G scale and it doesn’t sound right, it’s only one note away from one that does”

We learned a foot tapping rhythm. If you’re right-handed, start with your right foot counting 1, 2, 3, 4. On 1 tap right heel on floor. 2, pause 3, right toe 4, left foot. If left-handed start with your left foot.

Than attempting to do it while playing a tune. There was no sheet music so it was an exercise in playing by ear as well. Over all a fun, well taught and well enjoyed time.