Rochester Contra Dancing

Country Dancers of Rochester (CDR) is a not-for-profit organization that sponsors traditional New England Contra Dances and English Country Dances twice weekly. All dances are taught by the caller, so you don't need to bring a partner or have prior experience.

Thursday nights feature Contra Dances from 7:30 to 10:00 PM at The Rose Room on Gregory Street. English Country Dances meet on Sunday afternoons—in winter from 2:30 to 5:30 PM, and in summer from 6:30 to 9:30 PM. Every dance includes live music and begins with teaching at the start of the evening. Arrive 20 minutes early if you're new and want a brief beginner lesson.

CDR is a member of the Country Dance and Song Society (CDSS), a national organization dedicated to traditional dance and song. The organization runs on volunteer energy and welcomes newcomers. All dances are participatory, open to all, smoke-free and alcohol-free. No special dress is needed—just wear comfortable clothing and soft-soled, low-heeled shoes.

Beyond the weekly dances, CDR organizes seasonal special events including the Masquerade Ball (an annual costume ball fundraiser), the Turning of the Year Ball (an elegant New Year's celebration), and the Jane Austen Ball (a bi-annual Regency period ball held in spring, with the next scheduled for spring 2027). CDR is marking its 50th year of dancing in Rochester with a special Thanksgiving Festival dance weekend in November after Thanksgiving.

Membership runs from September 1 to August 31, with membership tiers ranging from Student ($10/year) to Supporter ($50+/year). Members receive a CDR button, early registration for special events, eligibility for annual CDR scholarships and matching CDSS camp scholarships, and the ability to vote at the annual meeting and serve on committees or the Board of Directors.

You'll arrive to find live music and other dancers of all levels. The caller teaches the dances before each one begins, so no prior experience is needed. You won't need a partner—the dances involve changing partners throughout. The room is smoke-free and alcohol-free, with tap water available.

CDR engages rotating callers and bands for each dance. Notable callers include Margaret Mathews, Bob Nicholson, Evan De Smitt, David Smukler, and Dan Seppeler. Bands vary and include ensembles such as Heart Throbs String Trio, Kanack School Faculty, Spindrift, Trillium, and Serendipity.

All dances are taught by the caller; newcomers are always welcome, and you can arrive 20 minutes early for a brief beginner lesson.