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Country Dance and Song SocietyFamily Week at Timber Ridge
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Country Dance and Song SocietyFamily Week at Timber Ridge
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Family Week at Timber Ridge August 6 - 12, 2006 Program Directors: Staff: * Advisors, plus: |
Program Description: [Back to Top]
Look up our Family Programs for some general information; here is more detail about this particular program and staff.
This program will share space and some program with our concurrent English & American Dance Week.
Timber Ridge! A new time a new place! This spacious camp with wide vistas, Olympic-size pool, multiple art, music and dance spaces, is cradled in the West Virginia mountains on a bend of the Cacapon River. This is the setting for this year's Family Week!
Our Family Week program continues the tradition of building a community of families learning and playing together. Each day is punctuated by Morning and Evening Gatherings where the community meets to share in song and dance as well as skits, art projects or demonstrations of how many things you can do with a straw. The Evening Gathering always includes a story followed by the bound-for-bed procession of younger children following the pied piper.
The offerings this year have been expanded. Family week veterans will find that there are many more choices for teens and adults since we have joined Family Week with English & American Week. Ritual, couple dance (tango, swing and waltz), percussive dance, as well as multiple contra, English and square dance classes all make a fabulous smorgasbord of dance activity.
During the week there will be many opportunities for campers and staff to show and tell. Whether it's sharing a previously undiscovered talent or a particularly beautiful song -- there will be a venue for it. Some of the best performances and funniest skits happen at the cabaret. The Beach Chairs offer an opportunity to hear some real life stories. If you'd like to get your hands dirty in good company, come to Community Art. The Harmony Blast and Song swap will take care of your singing urges and on Friday comes a grand parade featuring costumes, the festival parade band, side shows and games. What fun!
All week we'll find good company and superb song, art, dance, nature walks and music everywhere. So bring your dance shoes, take that old sax from the closet, dust off your guitar and prepare to celebrate our families, our selves and our good fortune to be together in this community. -- Ann Percival and David Cantieni, Program Directors
Daniel Beerbohm on clarinet, flute, and penny whistle, spices his English and contra dance playing from a rich background of swing, Klezmer, and classical music. He performs extensively with Hold The Mustard, A Joyful Noise, and Reunion, at dances along the East Coast and occasionally westward.
David Cantieni is a master of many instruments playing whistle, Irish-style wooden flute, oboe, saxophone and more. He is a founding member of both Wild Asparagus and Swallowtail. David is the consummate ensemble player who adds the special rhythmic accent or driving melody that raises the excitement bar on the dance floor.
Betsy Blachly Chapin is there for the children. Singing with children is what makes her happiest. Betsy is a master music teacher at Bank Street School in New York City and a freelance timpanist. We are honored to have her back (and her glockenspiel too!)
Henry Chapin is a creative spirit. He may treat us to a vaudeville-style swing ballad or an old-time tune on the fiddle. He can show us how the old English tradition of mumming continues to provide us with a fresh outlet for fun, satire and social commentary. Bring it on Henry!
John Devine's got one of the most beautiful voices you'll ever hear. He's the ultimate pied piper and when he starts in on the guitar you've just got to dance. He brings a gentle power to all that he does, whether playing guitar, singing songs or tending his farm just over the ridge in northeast West Virginia.
Matthew Duveneck, now living in South Portland, ME, grew up folk dancing. Matthew finds a fine balance between his passion for morris dance, forest fire ecology and Argentine tango. During the last ten years he has focused much of his creative energy on couple dancing. He is also the co-founder of the informal music dance party "Ciderfest."
Brad Foster, Executive and Artistic Director of CDSS and a favorite caller of English country as well as contras and squares, has taught for over 35 years at numerous weekends, festivals and camps across the U.S., Canada and Europe. His love of dancing is something he shares joyfully with people of all ages.
Earl Gaddis, now living in Plainwell, MI, is a full-time dance musician, having played fiddle and viola for a mixture of English, Scottish, American and international dancing for nearly 40 years at dance camps, workshops and concert events throughout the U.S. and abroad. He is a member of Bare Necessities.
Ralph Gordon, on cello and bass, has knowledge of and experience with many styles of music. He has worked with many bands over the years and is one of the best all-around bass players in the dance world. With numerous recordings to his credit, Ralph has graced many a concert stage, dance camp and festival here and abroad.
Ellie Grace has always been singing and dancing -- touring and performing with her family's band since childhood. Ellie will teach a harmony singing class with her sister Leela and she'll keep the 10-12s on their toes, literally -- collaborating with Matthew Olwell to lead the class in percussive dance, songs and who knows what else.
Leela Grace has been singing and dancing forever. The Grace sisters have often collaborated on stage with spectacular results. Here, Leela will treat us to her old-time banjo style during the square dancing, join with Ellie teaching harmony singing, and team up with Kappy to lead the 8-9s' garland class.
Kappy Laning has been the heart and soul of the CDSS family camps at Buffalo Gap. This year she'll be there to welcome us to our new home at Timber Ridge. She'll keep things running smoothly as well as lead a class of garland dancing for the 8-9 year olds.
Mary Lea has been playing violin and viola for dancing since 1977. She plays English with Bare Necessities, contras with Yankee Ingenuity and Crazy Quilt, South American music with Paradiso and a little of everything with Dark Carnival. She has performed at many dance camps and festivals and made numerous recordings over the years. Mary is Program Director of English & American Dance Week.
Lynne Mackey, by the age of 4, was playing piano by ear and by high school had progressed to entertaining at local hotel brunches. After conservatory she got back to playing by ear when she discovered the traditional music scene in Galax, WV. Lynne will share her heart and chops in the English dance band.
Leslie Jeanne Milbourne is mindful of our surroundings and filled with the quiet intensity of one who is listening with all her being. Her nature walks and observations help us appreciate the immediate camp surroundings. She also shows us how we can continue observing nature at home. She, John Devine and daughter Chanaya, share a patch of earth just down the road.
Robert Mills, of Pennington, NJ, has been playing piano and fiddle for contra dances and English dances for 20 years. He currently plays in the bands Fire Hazard and Rum & Onions where he is known for rhythmic and inventive playing. Robert also plays accordion for Millstone River Morris and does his best as foreman.
Beth Molaro, from Asheville, NC, is in demand as a caller and teacher for community dances large and small, for dance weekends and folk festivals. Beth is a very dynamic and exciting leader who calls high-energy squares and flowing contras. She is also a skilled and exuberant foot percussionist in the Appalachian flat-foot style.
Matthew Olwell, a Virginia native, grew up surrounded with music and dance. The whole family was involved with making wooden flutes. Later, Matthew spent several years performing and teaching with the well-known dance troupe, Footworks. We're excited to welcome Matthew back teaching percussive dance, the 10-12s class and playing flute and percussion for the evening dances.
Olivia Padovan, at 17 is a veteran of Family Week at Buffalo Gap. She's grown up in the dance community and loves playing with the children. We're so happy to have Olivia taking on the 2-3 year olds.
George Penk, from Portland, OR, has been playing folk fiddle for 25 years for contra and English country dancing. In his quiet at home moments, he tends to favor Irish tunes. He is a rhythmic and lyrical player who propels and delights dancers and has performed primarily in the Northwest at camps and weekend events.
Ann Percival, pianist, guitarist and singer, erstwhile social worker and artist, grew up dancing. She is a founding member of Wild Asparagus and the O-Tones and is an exceptional dance musician for contras, squares and swing. She has in recent years found special enjoyment teaching visual arts and crafts.
Jacqueline Schwab, pianist and English dance leader, has done much to define the sound of English country dance music. Flow, drive, creativity and passion are her hallmarks and are evident in her many performances, concerts and recordings. A longtime dancer, Jacqueline plays and teaches English dance workshops with Bare Necessities around the country and abroad.
Kari Smith has been performing and teaching a variety of English and Anglo-American display dance traditions since 1985. She is foreman of Guiding Star Clog Morris. Currently, she is teaching teachers to use music and dance in the classroom and to use the arts to address needs in local communities.
Bill Wellington, master storyteller, singer, comedian, fiddler and dance caller, will host the story telling along with Rover Reporter, I.M, Anonymous and some other characters that share the space in his brain. He'll also help out in the evenings with some calling and fiddling.
| Family Week at Timber Ridge Daily Schedule click for tentative Detailed Daily Schedule | |
| 7:45 - 8:15 | Breakfast |
| 9:00 - 10:00 | Morning classes, divided by age group |
| 10:00 | Refreshments |
| 10:15 - 11:00 | Morning Gathering |
| 11:00 - 12:45 11:15 - 12:15 |
Swimming, Bookstore staffed and/or Late morning class, 13 and up |
| 12:30 | Lunch |
| 1:45 - 2:45 | Early afternoon classes/Rest time |
| 3:00 - 4:00 | Afternoon classes, divided by age group |
| 4:15 - 5:45 4:15 - 5:15 |
Swimming and/or Late afternoon classes |
| 4:45 - 5:45 | Bookstore staffed |
| 5:30 | Sing For Your Supper |
| 6:00 | Dinner |
| 7:15 | Community Dance and Evening Gathering |
| 8:15 | Pied Piper / Bedtime for children 9 and younger |
| 8:20 - 11:00 | Evening Dance Party |
| 9:30 | Bedtime for 10-12 year olds |
| 11:00 | Optional after-dance activities |
Class Descriptions: [Back to Top]
Children attend classes by age group at 9:00am and 3:00pm, while those 13-adult attend the class of their choice. All children are expected to attend class during the age group times.
Children's classes by age group -- 9:00 and 3:00
Ages 2 and 3
Mornings and afternoons will be spent with Olivia Padovan. Books and stories, crafts and games, nature and nurture are on the palette of activities. Bring a favorite book or toy to share.
Ages 4 and 5
Mornings with Betsy Blachly Chapin will feature singing and dancing and playing with her carload of musical instruments. In the afternoon Leslie Jeanne Milbourne may take the children on a fairy hunt and study their habitat as well as doing some simple crafts. What fun!
Ages 6 and 7
Leslie Jeanne Milbourne will open up some of the mystery of the natural world as well as lead craft projects. Betsy Blachly Chapin will compliment Leslie's class by teaching songs and stories about the world around us.
Ages 8 and 9
In the morning Kappy Laning and Leela Grace will introduce garland dance. This will also entail going into the woods and fields to collect the materials needed to make the beautiful garlands which are used in the dance. Afternoons will be spent pursuing theatrical activities such as mumming with Henry Chapin.
Ages 10 to 12
Henry Chapin, with Robert Mills, will lead the 10-12 year olds in the morning doing dance and drama as well as singing. In the afternoon Ellie Grace will take the 10 year olds while Matthew Olwell works with the 11 and 12 year olds. Both groups will work on percussive dance and music.
Ages 13 and up Morning classes (9:00)
Contras and Squares for All -- Beth Molero / George Penk, David Cantieni, Ann Percival, John Devine
Contras and squares to wake up the body; open to dancers of all levels.
Percussive Dance -- Matthew Olwell and Ellie Grace
Foot percussion from many traditions. Both of these fabulous dancers are accomplished performers. We can't wait to see what they come up with!
English for Experienced Dancers -- Brad Foster / Earl Gaddis, Daniel Beerbohm, Jacqueline Schwab
For dancers who are already familiar with basic English country dance movement and style and who like more challenging dances.
Ages 13 and up Late Morning classes (11:15)
There are classes offered by English & American Week which are concurrent with swimming period. Families need to attend to their children first, but, if free, teens and parents may take a class at this time. The space near the pool offers shaded spots to gather -- and the playing fields are close by.
Early Afternoon Classes at 1:45
Many of these classes offer a chance for families to do something together.
Napping/Resting (99 and under)
Highly respected!
Nature Walk for Everyone (all ages) -- Leslie Jeanne Milbourne
Explore the neighborhood with our resident naturalist. The Timber Ridge area is simply teeming with life! Birds, bugs, trees and herbs. Leslie Jeanne is intimately familiar with these -- she lives among them on a farm just over the mountain.
Afternoon Story (all ages) -- Bill Wellington
Bill is back and so are Gnarly Roadrash, I.M. Anonymous and many more of Bill's companions. They travel around in his brain and come out at the drop of the hat. Just wait and hear.
Community Art (13 and up, 8-12 with a parent) -- Ann Percival and Kari Smith
Back by popular demand! Join us in the Timber Ridge art studio as we create, talk and laugh together. Leave behind the critic and bring your creative spirit. Everyone's an artist! A variety of mediums will be explored.
Harmony Singing (10 and up) -- Ellie and Leela Grace
The singing Grace sisters are back! Whether you're here to listen or to sing you'll be delighted. This is a class for singers of all abilities!
Dance Band (13 and up) -- David Cantieni, George Penk
The plan is to start right in playing for dances. The band class will perform every evening during the community dance. We will work on style, rhythm and ensemble playing. This band may also be the core of the parade band for Friday's festivities.
Contemporary English for All (13 and up) -- Jacqueline Schwab / Earl Gaddis, Ralph Gordon
A selection of recently-choreographed dances, reconstructions of older dances and other favorites.
Ages 13 and up Afternoon classes (3:00)
English Favorites for All -- Brad Foster / Earl Gaddis, David Cantieni, Lynne Mackey
English country dance favorites new and old.
Hot Squares -- Beth Molaro / Mary Lea, Leela Grace, John Devine
Choice squares, many fast-paced, some challenging, always fun and certain to improve your timing and enjoyment.
Northwest Morris -- Kari Smith / Robert Mills
An exciting tradition of Morris dancing from industrial northwest England, at once vigorous and disciplined, with fancy footwork and a wide range of figures that capitalize on typically large sets of 8, 16 or more dancers. For dancers of all levels. Bring indoor NW clogs if you have them.
Late Afternoon Classes at 4:15
These are concurrent with Swimming (all ages)
The Beach Chairs: Stories and Handwork (all ages) -- Betsy Blachly Chapin
Relax in our community. Learn the songs and stories that have shaped the lives of a number of our fellows. Bring your handwork -- crochet, knit, fold paper cranes, string beads or just listen and relax in the shade by the pool.
Argentine Tango (13 and up) -- Matthew Duveneck / Mary Lea, Jacqueline Schwab, Ralph Gordon
A class specifically aimed at those who are familiar with English and contra dance but might not know anything about tango. This dance form is considered by many partner dancers to be the ultimate form of creative dance. All levels are welcome! Shoes with leather or suede soles are necessary.
A Musical Feast -- Daniel Beerbohm
Come and taste music from a variety of styles and locations. We'll supply the parts to read, you bring your favorite instruments to play. There'll be classical, popular song, English Country dance and even some International Folk dance tunes, all in three-part harmony. Non-readers welcome, too!
Special All-Camp times
Morning Gathering (10:15-11:00)
The essence of camp life -- this time is for us all to get together to dance, find out about special goings on, and to learn about our fellow campers. If you have a special talent or favorite story, a joke, or a song to share, the Morning Gathering coordinators can help you schedule a time to perform. Unbeknownst to the rest of the world, some of the best performances ever are known to have occurred during the Morning Gathering! Over the years we have found that it is vital for families to join together to check in and tune in. Therefore we respectfully ask that all family camp members attend this event. Of course we hope that everyone from English-American week comes too.
Sing For Your Supper (5:30-6:00)
For those who would like to exercise their vocal chords just before dinner by gathering together to sing. Throughout the week there will be different people leading this event and we may have special themes such as gospel, rounds, pub songs, etc. It's a blast!
Community Dance and Evening Gathering (7:15-8:15)
Similar to the Morning Gathering, we'll always have some dances designed to include the whole community, there may be some performances as well and the highlight of this portion of the evening is a bedtime story for the younger children and finally the pied piper leading the young ones off to bed.
Staff
Class Descriptions & Schedule
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413-268-7426 |
Country Dance and Song Society 132 Main St/PO Box 338 Haydenville, MA 01039-0338 Office Hours M-F 9:30am - 5:00pm EST |
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