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It's been at least half a century since New England Conservatory hosted a barn dance—and we don't even own a barn! Thanks to a surge of interest in fiddle music, NEC's Contemporary Improvisation department is able to host this one-of-a-kind, interactive event. Whether you're already addicted to contra dance, or would like a chance to get your feet wet in this intoxicating social activity, we welcome you!

You will be dancing to live, hot Appalachian fiddle music by NEC student Eden MacAdam-Somer, whose weekends take her all over North America as a contra dance musician. She will be joined by her bandmates, the Sail Away Ladies, along with other NEC students. Vermont caller Will Mentor will share traditional American dances that are fun and easy to do.

No experience or partner necessary. Live music, great dancing … Be there!

The Sail Away Ladies are a 2009–2010 NEC Honors Ensemble that continues to blaze a trail with its contemporary take on American traditions. The group consists of Mia Friedman and Eden MacAdam-Somer, fiddle; Ariel Friedman, cello; and Grammy-nominated Sarah Jarosz, banjo. All four members contribute to vocal harmonies.

Here's what Eden MacAdam-Somer has to say about this dance:

"Barn dances (also known has ceilidhs, square dances, contra dances, hoe-downs, etc.) have long been a way of celebrating the seasons, gathering with friends, and passing winter nights. Although most of us recognize community dancing as a part of our history, many people do not realize that community dancing is still an important part of life for people all over the world. This dance heralds the beginning of a new semester and the start of our American Roots Ensemble, celebrating the exploration of American Roots through the life of Mike Seeger, musician, folklorist, and musicologist.