Howdy, Folkies,

I never thought I’d be saying THIS, but a musician friend has been nominated for a Grammy award. He’s played with Ruthie Dornfield, Rodney Miller, and other folk musicians, as well as some of Nashville’s finest country stars. I’ve hung out with him at Pinewoods, danced to his driving guitar rhythms, and listened to him tell stories at his house. Russ Barenberg finally quit his day job to pursue music full-time, and what happens? Grammy nomination!

Russ, his sweetheart Susan Kevra, and their two dogs hail from Nashville, TN. Russ’s CD “When at Last,” a set of original tunes, has been noticed. One tune, “Little Monk” is nominated for a Grammy for “Best Country Instrumental Performance, Category 40.” So when you gather around the TV on February 10 at 8 p.m., know that sometimes good things happen to excellent musicians. If you don’t believe me, visit http://www.grammy.com/GRAMMY_Awards/ or http://www.russbarenberg.com/CurrRel.cfm (Even though we’ve never met her, my hubby and I are also rooting for Feist for “Best New Artist, Category 4.”)

Corrales Sing, Friday, February 1
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Newcomers welcome! They’ll sing songs about Temptation and Salvation.
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT
Each participant in the circle may lead a song, do a solo, request a song, or pass. Bring enthusiasm, songbooks, instruments, beverages/snacks, kids, and friends.
Contact: Laurie McPherson 898-6978
Email: lauriemcpherson@hotmail.com or lmcpherson@salud.unm.edu
114 Coronado Road, Corrales, 87048
(Directions: From the intersection of Alameda and Coors, go 1.8 miles north on Corrales Road. Pass the Chevron station, go several blocks. Just past the Horseman’s Supply store, turn left on Coronado Road. Post office is too far. They’re the second house on the right, come in past the barns to park.)

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, February 2
Artie Walsh calling and Sandia Hots playing sizzling dance tunes (Liz Stevens on fiddle, Michael Gallagher on banjo, Linda Askew on guitar, and Scott Mathis on guitarron and mandolin). 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque Baroque Players, February 2 & 3
with guest Marilyn McDonald, violin, playing
Sonata in Four Movements, Concert III: Grave
Saturday, Feb. 2, 7:30 p.m., Los Altos Chrisitan Church, 11900 Haines NE, Albuquerque. Sunday, Feb. 3, 4 p.m., Historic Old San Ysidro Church, Corrales. $12 General, $10 Seniors, $5 Students. Call 255-7089 for reservations or visit the web site at www.unm.edu/~sbpatric

Durango Contra Dance, February 2
The Contra Dance is having three events in conjunction with Snowdown at the VFW, 1550 Main St, in Durango.
5:00 is a Medieval Madness Potluck open to all. Bring a dish to share.
6:00, the Albuquerque band Virginia Creepers will present a concert.
7:00 is beginner dance instruction, and followed by Ye Olde Contra Dance with “Dance King” Richard Wilson from Santa Fe as caller. Come dressed in your finest Faire wear for a chance to win a king’s ransom in prizes. All ages and skill levels are encouraged to attend this folk dance. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary and dancers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Admission is $10. First-time get a pass to come back for free. For further information, call 970-385-9292, or see the website http://groups.google.com/group/Durango-Contra-Dances

Old Time Music Circle, Albuquerque, Sun., February 3
Come jam from 2-4 PM at the Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria NE, Albuquerque, NM. There will be 2 groups playing in 2 separate rooms. Bluegrass music will be in the front room (entry room) and Old Time music will be in the west room (where concerts are held). Email Judy Muldawer at inquiry@siliconheights.com for more details.

Las Cruces Concert, Sunday, February 3
Emma’s Revolution
Rio Grande Theatre, 7.00 pm.
Advance ticket sales $12 general admission; $10 for students/seniors.
$15 for everyone on the day of the show.
Emma’s Revolution is Pat Humphries and Sandy Apatow, a Maryland duo who have recorded and toured internationally to great reviews. Called the “true spirit-child of Woody Guthrie,” activist musician and award-winning songwriter Pat Humphries has written and performed anthems at peace and justice events around the world. Performing with them will be local artists Chris Sanders and Bob Hull. Tickets are available at Hubbard’s Music ‘N More, Mountain Music and Enchanted Gardens Nursery, all in Las Cruces. Call Marc at (575) 571-7435 for more information about the event, and check www.emmasrevolution.com for more information about the music.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, February 9
Note new dance time of 7:30 -10:30 p.m. (same as ABQ dances now) Janine Sammeth calling with Chiletones playing dance tunes (David Margolin on fiddle, Jim Hughes on banjo, Bruce Thomson on guitar). 7:30 p.m. -10:30 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:00 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Second Sunday Dance, February 10
Kris Jensen and Kit French (just back from an English dance weekend in Oklahoma City) calling elegant English and zesty contras; The McPapenhagens (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle and friends) playing. 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, February 12
Join the Megaband in a jam in its new location at O’Niell’s Pub, 4310 Central Ave SE (Central at Washington in East Nob Hill), 7:00-10:00 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Santa Fe Concert, Valentine's Day
MICHAEL COMBS @ UPPER CRUST PIZZA IN SANTA FE
THURSDAY, FEB. 14 (El Dia de San Valentin)
De Vargas & Old Sta. Fe Trail, 6-9p no cover
Fiddle, Button Accordion, Trad’l Tunes & Song from many lands and times.

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, February 15
Lewis Land and Lonnie Ludeman calling with Dan Levenson & the Boiled Buzzards playing. Location: La Mesilla Community Center, 2251 Calle de Santiago, Mesilla NM. It’s actually the adjacent town of Mesilla, and hall is 2 blocks west of the plaza. For info, contact 505-522-1691. 7:30 p.m. beginner lessons & dance to follow to 10:30 p.m., Cost: $5

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, February 16
Kris Jensen calling and the Albuquerque Megaband playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, February 16
Dance at the San Geronimo Lodge, at 7: 00 and wind down at 10:30. Call 776-1580 with questions about the dance.

KLEZMERQUERQUE 2008, Albuquerque, February 15-17
The Southwest’s annual celebration of Klezmer music and dance, KLEZMERQUERQUE 2008, will present a weekend of concerts, dance parties, classes, and a lunch with music featuring world-renowned klezmer artists as well as many local artists. Klezmer is the secular instrumental music and dance of the East European Jewish people. The annual event will take place from February 15-17 (Friday evening through Sunday afternoon) at Albuquerque’s Congregation Nahalat Shalom, which is located on 3606 Rio Grande Blvd. NW (between Candelaria & Griegos). Prices and times vary for different events. Admission for the entire weekend of events (2 concerts/dance parties, 3 classes, klezmer potpourri presentation and a lunch with music program) is $90-general, $75-seniors/fixed income/under 18. Individual classes (one-and-a-half hour long each) are $20-general / $16-fixed income. For more information about concerts, class times/prices, Saturday lunch with music and any other questions please contact: Festival Coordinator Beth Cohen (505)243-6276 cohenedmunds@netzero.net and/or Congregation Nahalat Shalom www.nahalatshalom.org (505)343-8227.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, February 23
Lewis Land calling, Santa Fe Megaband playing dance tunes. Dance 7:30 p.m. -10:30 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:00 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Six Weeks of Harmonizing Workshops with Katie Gill in ABQ
With Katie Gill’s Harmony Workshops, designed for 6 to 10 people. 6 week commitment. Learn what the different harmony parts sound like around the melody and how to find them. Train your ear to listen and learn how to improvise or “scat”. Sing together as a group first, doubling up on the harmony parts. Later you will be placed into duos, trios and/or quartets for more intensive and individual practice.
When/WHERE: Mondays from 7:00 – 9:00 p m, Jan 28. – Mar 5 at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church on 5301 Ponderosa NE, near San Mateo and Montgomery.
OR: Wednesdays from 6:30 – 8:30 p m, Jan 30 – Mar 7 at First Presbyterian Church on 215 Locust NE near I-25 and University.
PRICE: $75.00
REGISTRATION: Call Katie at 505-228-6250 or email her at: katiesongs@cybermesa.com
Katie Gill graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with a bachelor of music degree with a vocal emphasis. She has performed in New Mexico, New York, Arizona, Texas and Colorado as well as in Europe. She has been in many various professional vocal groups and is currently in the Buckarettes, who feature great harmonies in their performances. Her musical styles include pop, folk, blues, western swing and country. For more info on Katie go to www.katiecaingill.com

This & That
Folkmadness 2008 is fast approaching with fantastic talent. Send in your registration for camp in Socorro, NM May 23-26, 2008. Lisa Greenleaf and Bill “Doc” Litchman calling, Groovemongers and Alice/Al White playing. Details at: http://www.folkmads.org/2008Folkmadness.html

Colorado’s Stellar Days and Nights Camp, Feb. 21-24, 2008 in beautiful Buena Vista, CO is still accepting dancers. You can join the bunch of NM dancers who have already signed up to cheer on New Mexico’s Merri Rudd and Hands Five, as well as nationally known Notorious (Eden MacAdam-Somer and Larry Unger) AND to eat gourmet meals prepared by Annie Johnston. Visit http://www.stellardaysandnights.org/ for details.

Happy Hearts to Everyone,

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Howdy, Folkies,

Well, no one was more surprised than I to conduct my 10th folk wedding at the break during the Albuquerque dance on December 15. Longtime dancer Margie Colberg’s daughter Jennifer Potrykus married Levi Hatter. Levi’s dad Edward was best man, and Jennifer’s sister Jessamyn was maid of honor. The event vied for ‘world’s most easily planned wedding,’ although I think Ken and Michele may have set that record at Folkmadness Camp in 2006. The wedding party stayed and danced the whole second half, and Katherine Bueler did a great job adapting to the wedding cheer lighting up the dance hall. Dancers and the Megaband enjoyed the cakes and coffee provided by the wedding folks, and I think the crowd revelled at being insta-wedding guests with a few moment’s notice. I can also report that the groom did not quit grinning the whole night. I’m not sure how much I LIKE marrying off the kids of my friends, but I had fun anyway.

Photo by Jim Boros

AND no one was more delighted than I to pass the reign of “bulk mail queen” on to the next benevolent monarch: Deb Campbell. After 11 years as BMQ, I was thrilled to be dethroned. The passing of the crown occurred at 8:20 p.m. on December 20, 2007. Loyal bulk mail crew, Melissa Wilson, Lew Suber, Tim Shaffer and Carol Langer immediately pledged loyalty to the new queen, as Merri embraced her newfound moniker of “has-been.”

Photo by Mark Justice Hinton

Corrales Sing, Friday, January 4
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Newcomers welcome! They’ll sing songs about FRIENDS, BUDDIES & PALS.
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT
Each participant in the circle may lead a song, do a solo, request a song, or pass. Bring enthusiasm, songbooks, instruments, beverages/snacks, kids, and friends.
Contact: Laurie McPherson 898-6978
Email: lauriemcpherson@hotmail.com or lmcpherson@salud.unm.edu
114 Coronado Road, Corrales, 87048
(Directions: From the intersection of Alameda and Coors, go 1.8 miles north on Corrales Road. Pass the Chevron station, go several blocks. Just past the Horseman’s Supply store, turn left on Coronado Road. Post office is too far. They’re the second house on the right, come in past the barns to park.)

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, January 5
Richard Wilson calling and Hey! playing dance tunes (Linda Vik on fiddle, Tim Shaffer on guitar, Jane Phillips on fiddle and bass, Chris Carlson on fiddle and banjo). 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Durango Contra Dance, January 5
The Contra Dance is having three events at the VFW, 1550 Main St, in Durango.
5:00 is a community potluck that is open to all. Bring a dish to share.
6:00, the Albuquerque band Hands Five will present a concert.
7:00 is beginner dance instruction
7:30, the Contra Dance starts, with Durango caller Wendy Graham and more music from Hands Five. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary, and dancers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Admission is $10. First-time get a pass to come back for free. For further information, call 970-385-9292, or see the website http://groups.google.com/group/Durango-Contra-Dances

Old Time Music Circle, Albuquerque, Sun., January 6
Come jam from 2-4 PM at the Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria NE, Albuquerque, NM. There will be 2 groups playing in 2 separate rooms. Bluegrass music will be in the front room (entry room) and Old Time music will be in the west room (where concerts are held). Email Judy Muldawer at inquiry@siliconheights.com for more details.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, January 12
Note new dance time of 7:30 -10:30 p.m. (same as ABQ dances now) Donna Howell calling with Hey! playing dance tunes (Linda Vik on fiddle, Tim Shaffer on guitar, Jane Phillips on fiddle and bass, Chris Carlson on fiddle and banjo. 7:30 p.m. -10:30 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:00 p.m. $6 members, $7 others. There will be a potluck beforehand starting at 5:00 at the Oddfellows Hall so dancers and musicians can get to know each other better and discuss ways to help out the dances. Bring a dish to share.

Albuq. Concert, Saturday, January 12
Band of Heathens
Puccini’s Golden West Saloon, 620 Central Ave SW
$15 advance, $20 day of show.
Buy tickets on-line through Brown Paper Tickets
or by phone: 1-800-838-3006
8:00 PM, 21 and over (or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian)
Originally conceived as a loosely-knit collective showcasing four of Austin’s best up-and-coming artists, The Band Of Heathens quickly discovered that something special happened when they played together. Each artist has a unique voice, but there is also an amazing group voice of the whole band. Known for their dramatic live show that easily switch gears from Classic Country to Progressive Folk to Americana and R&B, they immediately became an Austin favorite, winning the Best New Band award in 2006/2007. I saw this band at Neal’s 100th house concert and they were highly entertaining. Visit www.abqmusic.com for more info.

Second Sunday Dance, January 13
Noralyn Parsons and Kit French calling elegant English and zesty contras; Bo y Yo (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle, Bo Olcott on guitar) playing. 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, January 15
Join the Megaband in a jam in its new location at O’Niell’s Pub, 4310 Central Ave SE (Central at Washington in East Nob Hill), 7:00-10:00 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, January 18
Lewis Land and Lonnie Ludeman calling with SNMMDS House Band playing.
Location: La Mesilla Community Center, 2251 Calle de Santiago, Mesilla NM. It’s actually the adjacent town of Mesilla, and hall is 2 blocks west of the plaza. For info, contact 505-522-1691. 7:30 p.m. beginner lessons & dance to follow to 10:30 p.m., Cost: $5

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, January 19
Donna Howell calling and the Albuquerque Megaband playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, January 19
Dance at the San Geronimo Lodge, at 7: 00 and wind down at 10:30. Call 776-1580 with questions about the dance.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, January 26
Katherine Bueler calling, The Hot Tops (I don’t know who is in this band, but they sound fun) playing dance tunes. Dance 7:30 p.m. -10:30 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:00 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Santa Fe Concert, Sunday, January 27
College of Santa Fe Contemporary Music presents
KITKA Women’s Vocal Ensemble
Sunday, January 27, 2008, 7:00 p.m.
Greer Garson Theater, College of Santa Fe
Tickets: $15 advanced / $20 @ the door
For tickets and information call the Contemporary Music office at (505) 473-6196. KITKA specializes in pure, unaccompanied vocal techniques from Eastern Europe that have been distilled over centuries. Their material ranges from ancient village duets to complex choral works, from early music to contemporary theater. The sound of their voices is exotic, both elegant and eerie. The many languages in which they sing are largely unfamiliar to American ears — Albanian, Bosnian, Bulgarian, Serbo-Croatian, Georgian, Hungarian, Ladino, Latvian, Macedonian, Romanian, Russian, Ukrainian, Yiddish, with the occasional Latin, medieval Gallician, or ancient Greek. KITKA’s sensitive precision lifts their work out of the merely musical into a universe beyond words.

Six Weeks of Harmonizing Workshops with Katie Gill in ABQ
With Katie Gill’s Harmony Workshops, designed for 6 to 10 people. 6 week commitment. Learn what the different harmony parts sound like around the melody and how to find them. Train your ear to listen and learn how to improvise or “scat”. Sing together as a group first, doubling up on the harmony parts. Later you will be placed into duos, trios and/or quartets for more intensive and individual practice.
When/WHERE: Mondays from 7:00 – 9:00 p m, Jan 28. – Mar 5 at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church on 5301 Ponderosa NE, near San Mateo and Montgomery.
OR: Wednesdays from 6:30 – 8:30 p m, Jan 30 – Mar 7 at First Presbyterian Church on 215 Locust NE near I-25 and University.
PRICE: $75.00
REGISTRATION: Call Katie at 505-228-6250 or email her at: katiesongs@cybermesa.com
Katie Gill graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with a bachelor of music degree with a vocal emphasis. She has performed in New Mexico, New York, Arizona, Texas and Colorado as well as in Europe. She has been in many various professional vocal groups and is currently in the Buckarettes, who feature great harmonies in their performances. Her musical styles include pop, folk, blues, western swing and country. For more info on Katie go to www.katiecaingill.com

This & That
Folkmadness 2008 is fast approaching with fantastic talent. Send in your registration for camp in Socorro, NM May 23-26, 2008. Lisa Greenleaf and Bill “Doc” Litchman calling, Groovemongers and Alice/Al White playing. Details at: http://www.folkmads.org/2008Folkmadness.html

Arizona’s Peg Hesley Goes to Texas: 2nd Annual Contra Dance Weekend in Post, Texas (about 5 hours from ABQ). March 7-9, 2008, 8 p.m. Friday until noon Sunday. Caller will be Peg Hesley of Phoenix, AZ with two bands playing, Flagstaff’s Traditional Blend and Texas’s Mimi & Allison. Cost is $70, which includes three meals. Lodging additional, $50-$80 per person, includes 2 nights. Cost: $65 for the weekend of dancing. For information, visit www.thegreatdanceescape.org

Colorado’s Stellar Days and Nights Camp, Feb. 21-24, 2008 in beautiful Buena Vista, CO is still accepting dancers. You can join the bunch of NM dancers who have already signed up to cheer on New Mexico’s Merri Rudd and Hands Five, as well as nationally known Notorious (Eden MacAdam-Somer and Larry Unger) AND to eat gourmet meals prepared by Annie Johnston. Visit http://www.stellardaysandnights.org/ for details.

Czech Republic in October, Anyone? Caller David Millstone is leading a trip to Prague and Bohemia next October, specially organized for dancers. In addition to seeing beautiful sights and learning more about Czech music and dance and related traditions, the main focus of the dancing is American contras and squares; this year they’ve added a little more traditional Czech dancing into the mix. At the big festival that marks the end of the tour, there’ll also be English country, vintage, Irish, Mexican, and more. One of the hallmarks of the dancing on this trip is that people will be dancing with Czech dancers both as they travel and at the culminating festival. In some cases, these are dancers who do traditional Czech dances, and they’ll teach each other some dances from our respective cultures. In other cases, they are Czech dancers who share a love for Anglo-American country dances. The 2008 tour also gives dancer/travellers an opportunity to visit Cesky Krumlov, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Bohemia. Here’s the website address with all the details: http://dvorana.cz/dance/2008/country/index.php

Happy 2008 to Everyone,

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

No matter what your religious belief, here’s a feel-good animated holiday song for you… I’m dreaming of a white Christmas…. http://badaboo.free.fr/merryxmas.swf

Howdy, Folkies,

As the winter solstice approaches, go forth into the dark to play, sing, dance and laugh. December has many events to entice you in between holiday feasting. And several winter dance camps are available for your enjoyment (see end of blog entry for more info).

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, December 1
Marj Mullany calling and Nabobs playing festive dance tunes (Jim Mullany and Rob Pine on fiddle and guitar, Tom Christensen on banjo). 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Durango Contra Dance, December 1
Contra Dance, to be held at the VFW Hall (1550 Main Ave., Durango, CO). Merri Rudd from Albuquerque, NM will call the dance. Live music will be provided by Albuquerque’s Adobe Brothers. Beginner instruction is at 7:00 p.m. Dancing is from 7:30 to 10:30. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary, and dancers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Admission is $10. First-time get a pass to come back for free. For further information, call 970-259-6820 or visit http://groups.google.com/group/Durango-Contra-Dances

Santa Fe Concert, Sat., December 1
Music from the Mediterranean, Balkans and Middle East
at Gig Performance Space, 1808 Second St., Suite H
8:00pm, $10-15 donation.
Radio Free Bassanda! brings a wide range of repertoire and
instrumentation to their performances. Their use of both eastern and
western instruments affords them a broad timbral palette with which to
weave their sound pictures. Energetic and complex rhythms challenge the
ear and the feet! Roger Landes: Arabic Oud (lute), Arabic Buzuq, Turkish Lavta, Irish Bouzouki, Greek Laouto; Ben Wright: Double Bass; Mark Dudrow: Cello; with special guest Nakul Deshpande: (percussion) Arabic Dumbeq, Turkish Darabukka, Persian Zarb. For more information contact: Roger Landes (575)751-3512, rwlandes@taosnet.com

Old Time Music Circle, Albuquerque, Sun., December 2
Come jam from 2-4 PM at the Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria NE, Albuquerque, NM. There will be 2 groups playing in 2 separate rooms. Bluegrass music will be in the front room (entry room) and Old Time music will be in the west room (where concerts are held). Email Judy Muldawer at inquiry@siliconheights.com for more details.

Albuquerque Concert, Thursday, December 6
Boulder Acoustic Society at Windchime Champagne Gallery
518 Central Avenue SW, 7:30 PM
$15 advance, $20 day of show.
You loved ’em in June at the Albuquerque Folk Festival. Maybe you went again to their house concert at Gretchen and Steve’s in August. If not, you get a THIRD chance to hear Boulder Acoustic Society, a four-piece band with a new take on American roots music. The members of BAS are accomplished multi-instrumentalists who captivate audiences with guitar, fiddle, string bass, marimba, ukulele, percussion, banjo and mandolin. Their deep respect for tradition, passion for innovation and intriguing instrumentation creates a remarkable and memorable listening experience. The music is modern and accessible, subtle yet virtuosic, and serious yet light-hearted. BAS is known all over North America for their genre-blending song writing, amazing improvisation and intimate, personal vocals. www.abqmusic.com has ticket info.

Corrales Sing, Friday, December 7
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Newcomers welcome! They’ll sing songs about CAROLS AND GRATITUDE.
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT
Each participant in the circle may lead a song, do a solo, request a song, or pass. Bring enthusiasm, songbooks, instruments, beverages/snacks, kids, and friends.
Contact: Laurie McPherson 898-6978
Email: lauriemcpherson@hotmail.com or lmcpherson@salud.unm.edu
114 Coronado Road, Corrales, 87048
(Directions: From the intersection of Alameda and Coors, go 1.8 miles north on Corrales Road. Pass the Chevron station, go several blocks. Just past the Horseman’s Supply store, turn left on Coronado Road. Post office is too far. They’re the second house on the right, come in past the barns to park.)

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, December 7
Lewis Land and Lonnie Ludeman calling this Holiday Contra Dance with featured band BRIAN & AMY & HIGHWAY 27, a lively, toe-tapping, dance-driving sound. Remember, this is the only dance in December, next dance is Jan 18, so don’t miss this one. Dress up in something sparkly, fun. Bring cookies or sweets if you have been baking or some healthy snacks.
Location: La Mesilla Community Center, 2251 Calle de Santiago, Mesilla NM. It’s actually the adjacent town of Mesilla, and hall is 2 blocks west of the plaza. For info, contact 505-522-1691.
7:30 p.m. beginner lessons & dance to follow to 10:30 p.m., Cost: $5

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, December 8
Artie Walsh calling with holiday tunes by Santa Fe’s own Fast Pesos. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others. Dance Committee Meeting at 6 p.m. at the hall.

Second Sunday Dance, December 9
Merri Rudd and Kris Jensen calling elegant English and zesty contras; One Good Turn (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle with other assorted friends) playing. 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque Concert, Sunday, December 9
Jeff Scroggins & Fresh Horses, 7 p.m.
Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria Road NE
Presented by The Southwest Traditional & Bluegrass Music Association
$12.00 adults, $10.00 for Southwest Pickers Members, Kids Under 16 Free
Tickets available at the door. For more information visit Jeff Scroggins and Fresh Horses on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/jeffscrogginsfreshhorses or The Southwest Pickers Website at http://www.SouthwestPickers.com/

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, December 11
Join the Megaband in a jam in its current location at Wild Oats, 11015 Menaul NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

AMP Concert, Albuq., Wed., December 12
Marc Cohn with Amy Correia
El Rey Theater, 624 Central Ave SW
7 PM, 21 and over
Tickets are $28 advance, $35 day of show.
Singer/songwriter/pianist Marc Cohn burst onto the scene in 1991 on the heels of one of the most personal, resonant songs to make the Top 40 in the past 20 years, “Walking In Memphis.” The song’s remarkable power to move listeners while eluding precise explanation is a hallmark of the highest songwriting art and, just as remarkably, it was a monster hit that abides on radio playlists to this day. The Best New Artist Grammy for 1991 followed in its wake, along with two other albums, The Rainy Season and Burning the Daze. Cohn will be touring in support of his first new studio album in 9 years, Join the Parade.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, December 15
Katherine Bueler calling and the Albuquerque Megaband playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Annual Taos Holiday Ball, Saturday, December 15
The Ball will open this Saturday, December 15, at the San Geronimo
Lodge, at 7: 00 and wind down at 10:30. Dancers to arrive in Fancy Dress. And once again, Taos being Taos, the rule is, “Consult your Fancy and follow it” — so long as you honor the occasion. The admission price is $8 per dancer, or $15 per couple. Richard Wilson of Santa Fe will lead the dancing, and Taos’ own talented and dedicated Musicians of the Taos Contraband will provide music. The Grand March will start just after 8:00 Call 776-1580 with any questions about the dance.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, December 22
Richard Wilson calling, Santa Fe Megaband playing holiday dance tunes. Dance 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Fifth Saturday Dance, Albuquerque, December 29
Rock n’ Roll Dance, Kris Jensen calling, Movin’ Henry Band playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others. Details at http://www.folkmads.org/nov_dec_newsletter07.html (scroll down to last page).

This & That
Folkmadness 2008 has now locked in all of its fantastic talent. MARK your calendar to be in Socorro, NM May 23-26, 2008. I could leak the info here, but don’t want to spoil the surprise. Watch www.folkmads.org and your Jan./Feb. 2008 FOLKMADS mailing for details. (Lonnie and Julie better come to this one; we are way behind in hearts matches!)

2007 Boo Camp videos can be viewed on youtube:

Some fine Gene Hubert dances are available online. I blogged about it at: http://merridancing.com/wp/2007/11/gene-hubert-dances/

Richard Wilson’s in Arizona: Cottonwood Caper Contra Fest, January 18-20, 2008, 7:00 pm Friday through 3:00 pm Sunday. First ever Cottonwood Caper Contra Fest will take place at the old Cottonwood Community Center on Main Street, old town Cottonwood, with its slightly off-kilter hardwood floor. Three popular Arizona contra dance bands will play: the Privy Tippers and Round the House, both Tucson bands, and Updraft from Flagstaff. Callers will be Richard Wilson (NM) and Arizona’s own Deb Comly and Claire Zucker. Cost is $65, which includes one meal. Location: Cottonwood Community Center, Old Town Main Street, Cottonwood, Arizona. Cost: $65 for the weekend of dancing. For information, contact Judy Norman, judy.norman@juno.com or telephone 1-623-979-4875.

Bare Necessities English Country Dance Weekend in Oklahoma City, OK, Feb. 8-9, 2008 is FULL with a waiting list started. Eight of us New Mexicans made it in, and we’ll post a report in February.

Colorado’s Stellar Days and Nights Camp, Feb. 21-24, 2008 in beautiful Buena Vista, CO is still accepting dancers. You can join the bunch of NM dancers who have already signed up to cheer on New Mexico’s Merri Rudd and Hands Five, as well as nationally known Notorious (Eden MacAdam-Somer and Larry Unger) AND to eat gourmet meals prepared by Annie Johnston (she’s why Merri took the gig, among other reasons!). Visit http://www.stellardaysandnights.org/ for details.

Happy Holidays to All,

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Howdy, Folkies,

As the season of over-eating approaches, let us dance and play and sing to burn off calories! November 17 promises to be a big day for FOLKMADS, with a retreat, dance, and election, all in the same day. Details below.

Corrales Sing, Friday, November 2
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Newcomers welcome! They’ll sing songs about FAT AND THIN. Think Feasting/Drink/Hunger/Thirst/Hard Times, Rich and Poor.
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT
Each participant in the circle may lead a song, do a solo, request a song, or pass. Bring enthusiasm, songbooks, instruments, beverages/snacks, kids, and friends.
Contact: Laurie McPherson 898-6978
Email: lauriemcpherson@hotmail.com or lmcpherson@salud.unm.edu
114 Coronado Road, Corrales, 87048
(Directions: From the intersection of Alameda and Coors, go 1.8 miles north on Corrales Road. Pass the Chevron station, go several blocks. Just past the Horseman’s Supply store, turn left on Coronado Road. Post office is too far. They’re the second house on the right, come in past the barns to park.)

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, November 3
Noralyn Parsons calling and Traditional Blend from Flagstaff, Arizona playing rousing dance tunes (Bill and Patti Cummings, fiddle and guitar respectively, play traditional dance music from Ireland, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, the southwestern prairies of Louisiana, and Appalachia). 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Durango Contra Dance Weekend, November 2-3
November 2 concert with Albuquerque’s Sandia Hots
Friday, November 2, 7:30 pm
Rocky Mountain Retreat
848 E 3rd Ave, Durango, CO
Waltz Workshop led by Peg Hesley, of Phoenix, AZ
Saturday, November 3, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Contra Dance Calling by Peg Hesley, tunes by Sandia Hots
Beginner instruction 7:00PM Dance 7:30 pm
Workshop and Dance at VFW Hall, 1550 Main Ave, Durango CO
Cost is $10 for any one event, $18 for any two; $25 for all 3.
For further info call 970-385-9292 or see http://groups.google.com/group/Durango-Contra-Dances

Old Time Music Circle, Albuquerque, Sun., November 4
2-4 PM at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria NE
There will be 2 groups playing in 2 separate rooms. Bluegrass music will be in the front room (entry room) and Old Time music will be in the west room (where concerts are held). Email Judy Muldawer at inquiry@siliconheights.com for more details.

Albuquerque Concert, Wednesday, November 7
Jim Malcolm sings at the Windchime Champagne Gallery
518 Central Avenue SW, 7:30 PM, $15 advance, $20 day of show.
Outstanding Scots singer and former frontman with Old Blind Dogs, Jim Malcolm plays traditional, original and Burns songs with guitar, harmonicas, and engaging wit. His original and award-winning songs from Edinburgh, Perthshire, Angus and the Highlands make his concerts a musical tour of Scotland, and his unmistakeable, signature voice has been said to resemble “an aged single-malt whisky.” Jim won Songwriter of the Year in 2004 and was nominated for Scots Singer of the Year in 2005, in the Scots Trad Music Awards. While he performed in Albuquerque several years ago with Old Blind Dogs, this will be his first solo appearance in NM. Ticket info is at www.abqmusic.com

Clogging & Dancing, Santa Fe, Saturday, November 10
Clogging Class, 4:30-5:30 pm
Odd Fellows Hall, $15, All ages welcome
Taught by Ruth Alpert, music by Betsy Brown and Jamie Hascall.
Learn the basics of appalachian, freestyle, percussive clogging. Please wear non-scuffing, slide-able shoes and loose clothing. Clogging is aerobic! Ruth Alpert has been clogging for 30 years. She performs with the Fast Peso String Band and Michael Combs, among others. THEN……
Larry Daughenbaugh & Katherine Bueler calling the second Saturday contra dance, Roaring Jelly playing. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Second Sunday Dance, November 11
Noralyn Parsons and Kit French calling elegant English and zesty contras; Second Nature (Karina Wilson on fiddle, Della O’Keefe on piano) playing. 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, November 13
Join the Megaband in a jam in its current location at Wild Oats, 11015 Menaul NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Western Music Assoc. Event, Albuquerque, Nov. 15-18
The WMA (Western Music Association) will hold its annual event at the Marriott Hotel (Menaul & Louisiana, NE) from November 15-18th. There will be free workshops on harmony, song writing, yodeling, banjo, guitar and much more. There will be contests for harmony, yodeling, cowboy poetry, etc. The event begins early on Thursday, the 15th of November. Admission to most events and workshops is free. There is a charge for the Friday and Saturday evening concerts, events and dances. For a five page pdf file filled with pertinent information, please email inquiry@siliconheights.com.

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, November 16
Lewis Land calling this dance with SNMMDS House Band playing. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $5 all. Mesilla Community Center, 2251 Calle de Santiago, Las Cruces. It’s actually the adjacent town of Mesilla, and hall is 2 blocks west of the plaza. For info, contact 505-522-1691.

All FOLKMADS, All Day, Saturday, November 17
This may be the most important day in FOLKMADS’ recent history: a retreat, dance and annual meeting/election, all in one day in two locations.
First, the FOLKMADS retreat in Santa Fe, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., La Fonda Hotel. See http://www.folkmads.org/nov_dec_newsletter07.html for details (scroll down for Retreat details). THEN…
Merri Rudd calling and the Albuquerque Megaband playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others. AND… FOLKMADS Annual Election that same evening at the Heights. Sign up to be on the Board for a one-year term. Details also at: http://www.folkmads.org/nov_dec_newsletter07.html (scroll down for election info).

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, November 17
Contra dance at the San Geronimo Lodge, Witt Road. Starting time 7:00 p.m. Someone calling, Taos Megaband playing. Five dollars per dancer. Call 776-1580 with any questions about the dance.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, November 24
Open mike for callers, Gary Papenhagen on fiddle and Bo Olcott on guitar playing post-Thanksgiving dance tunes. Dance 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Denver House Concert with Fred and Georgia Rose Park
Sunday, November 25th, 4pm, $10
at the home of Chris & Sharon Kermiet
2267 Hudson St. Denver
PLEASE RSVP to k1@indra.com SPACE IS LIMITED!
If you happen to be up north in Colorado over Thanksgiving weekend, consider this concert. Fred Park has been a long-time student of language and oral tradition. He first performed the traditional tales of his Appalachian homeland in the 1970’s and was invited as one of the handful of tellers at the first National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, TN, where he has appeared again several times since. He is recognized as a creative interpreter of histories of the development of the Appalachian region of the folk movement in America. Frederick also has focused on the larger moments of the traditional tales including many about “Jack” (from America and Scotland) and thematically, a cadre of tales around the concept of Love In The Western World. Fred will be joined by his daughter, Georgia Rose, a delightful singer and performer in her own right. This will be an enchanting evening of folk tales and music.

Finally, I came across an informative web site re: music events around the state: http://www.newmexicomusic.org/events.php?endMonth=&endYear=2015

Happy Thanksgiving to All,

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Howdy, Folkies,

Well, we’re into the dark side of the year as winter nears. To stave off cold, dark, shorter days, and winter in general, you get to go to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, http://www.balloonfiesta.com/. Or get out there to some of the upcoming music and dance events in October. If you can’t dance for some reason, check out some fun New Mexico dance videos on youtube at http://www.youtube.com/user/Contra87 You will see many people you know!

Corrales Sing, Friday, October 5
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Newcomers welcome! They’re meeting in October to sing of ROBBERS, THIEVES, AND OUTLAWS.
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT
Note that the Balloon Fiesta is kicking off this night, and the Alameda route out to Corrales is highly inadvisable. North 4th and 2nd are problematic also. Even Rio Grande or Paseo del Norte get backed up with balloonistas. Hosts recommend coming via Coors Rd, starting way down at Montano.
Each participant in the circle may lead a song, do a solo, request a song, or pass. Bring enthusiasm, songbooks, instruments, beverages/snacks, kids, and friends.
Contact: Laurie McPherson 898-6978
Email: lauriemcpherson@hotmail.com or lmcpherson@salud.unm.edu
114 Coronado Road, Corrales, 87048
(Directions: From the intersection of Alameda and Coors, go 1.8 miles north on Corrales Road. Pass the Chevron station, go several blocks. Just past the Horseman’s Supply store, turn left on Coronado Road. Post office is too far. They’re the second house on the right, come in past the barns to park.)

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, October 6
A special treat with Flagstaff’s Deb Comly calling and Hands Five (Bruce Thomson on fiddle, Peter Esherick on hammer dulcimer, John Brinduse on guitar, Erika Gerety on bass, and Gary Blank on percussion) playing sizzling dance tunes. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Durango Contra Dance, Saturday, October 6
Different location this month: at the Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave, Durango Co. Caller Ron Young and the 5th Reel Band from Grand Junction will provide live music and call the dance. Beginner instruction is at 7:00 p.m. Dancing is from 7:30 to 10:30. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary, and dancers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Admission is $10. First-time get a pass to come back for free. For further information, call 970-259-6820.

Old Time Music Circle, Albuquerque, Sunday, October 7
Jams are 2-4 PM at the Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria NE, Near Moon and Candelaria (North Side), Albuquerque, NM. There will be 2 groups playing in 2 separate rooms. Bluegrass music will be in the front room (entry room) and Old Time music will be in the west room (where concerts are held, behind the folding doors). Your music friends are welcome. Email Judy Muldawer at inquiry@siliconheights.com for more details.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, October 13
Durango’s Wendy Graham calling, Santa Fe Megaband playing. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque Concert, Saturday, October 13
If you’d rather listen than dance, the Irish Heritage Center Board along with the Irish-American Society of New Mexico invite all folk music lovers to come out and hear Karl Jones, Dublin songwriter and recording artist, at the Irish Heritage Center Benefit on October 13th at the First Unitarian Church (Comanche and Carlisle). Along with Karl Jones will be Albuquerque’s own “Celtic eclectic” band, Saoirse. Doors for the concert will open at 6:30 PM and tickets are $20. The proceeds will go to the Irish Heritage Center Building Fund. More about Karl Jones at his website http://www.karljones1916.com/

Second Sunday Dance, October 14
This is the 15th anniversary of the Second Sunday English/Contra Series, founded by William and Gemma DeRagon. Merri Rudd calling elegant English and zesty contras; Second Nature (Karina Wilson on fiddle, Della O’Keefe on piano) playing. 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others. Refreshments and a few surprises await! Please join us in celebrating these beautiful dance forms.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, October 16
Join the Megaband in a jam in its current location at Wild Oats, 11015 Menaul NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Albuquerque Concert, Thursday, October 18
7:00 pm
The James King Band
Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria Road NE
Tickets: $10 for SW Pickers Members, $12 for Non-Members, available at the door.
James King’s voice is drenched with that Blue Ridge drawl, that peculiar mix of morbid fatalism and stoic dignity. King blends the fear of death and the contentment of home so effectively that he assumes his place in the line of great Blue Ridge singers. King’s first recorded song was “Teardrop on a Rose”, which he says he realized he did something he didn’t know he could do. King graduated from the Lundy School of Bluegrass in 1982, and then relocated to Maryland and formed the band the Chesapeake Bay Bluegrass Boys. The James King Band captures the sound of Blue Ridge and you can hear stories of love and life in each heartfelt song. For more info, visit www.southwestpickers.org

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, October 19
Lewis Land and Lonnie Ludeman calling this dance with music by Highway 27, a delightful band organized by Amy Muise. Amy and husband Brian live north of Hatch, both fiddle and she plays cello; band will also include Bobby Jones, and 2 others. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $5 all. Mesilla Community Center, 2251 Calle de Santiago, Las Cruces. It’s actually the adjacent town of Mesilla, and hall is 2 blocks west of the plaza. For info, contact 505-522-1691.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, October 20
Try something new with a gender-free contra dance. Kris Jensen calling and the Albuquerque Megaband playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, October 20
Contra dance at the San Geronimo Lodge, Witt Road, at 7:30 with instruction and warm-up at 7 p.m. Jim Buechler (?) calling, Taos Megaband playing. Five dollars per dancer. Call 776-1580 with any questions about the dance.

No Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, October 27
It’s Boo Camp in the beautiful Jemez Mountains. Go to that instead with Richard Wilson calling and Three Bean Salad playing.

Boo Camp, Oct. 26-28, Hummingbird Music Camp
Boo Camp, for the 1st time ever, will be two nights and three days of dancing! Richard Wilson calling, Three Bean Salad playing. Hummingbird Music Camp, Jemez Springs, NM. Pumpkins, costumes, fun, food, dancing, jams, singing, river, radiant gold cottonwood trees and more. Details on the web site: www.folkmads.org.

Albuquerque Concert, Wednesday, October 31
Wanna avoid those treat-or-treating kids? Head on out for some fine tunes
by David Parmley and Continental Divide
7:00 pm
Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria Road NE
Tickets: $10 for SW Pickers Members, $12 for Non-Members, available at the door
Don Parmley was recently honored on two separate occasions in Monticello, Ky. The first, “A Day with Don Parmley,” was held at the Aspire Center, April 19. A native of southern California, David Parmley is a founding member of the internationally acclaimed, Bluegrass Cardinals. In 18 years, the Cardinals recorded fifteen separate projects, made appearances on the Grand Ole Opry, the Ralph Emory Show and performed at the White House for former President, Jimmy Carter. For more info, visit www.southwestpickers.org

Sad News
Albuquerque dancer Mike O’Meara died unexpectedly in Jemez Springs, NM in his sleep around midnight of September 13th-14th. His good friend Karen Goodpasture reports, “Michael left on a high note and we are thankful that his passing was an easy one. The memorial [already past] promises to be a grand event, complete with a piper.”

Karen has moved to West Virginia. She has danced with the Albuquerque group for six years, and said her good-byes at the Sept. 15 dance. She says, “I have had a great time dancing with you all, Greg and Karen who taught at my first dance at the Folk Festival back in 2001, Jay who taught me to waltz, and all my fine partners and dance friends. I will miss you all and look forward to meeting my new dance family in West Virginia.”

Looking Ahead...
Red Gorilla Music Fest, Austin, TX, March 12-15, 2008, www.redgorillamusic.com

Ken Cooper, formerly of Tuscon/Phoenix area, and his lovely bride Michele von Boeck-Cooper have moved to western North Carolina. His new email address is ken.cooper@mchsi.com and he says you all should contact them if you are in the area.

Enjoy the colors and sounds of fall.

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Howdy, Folkies,

I’m posting this early so we can head to Tennessee for my mom’s 80th birthday! You may notice that I fudged on the details since I didn’t know them all when I composed this blog entry. I did what I could with what I had, as my Pilates teacher always tells us to do. On September 3, 2007 I added some more events and details.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, September 1
Artie Walsh calling and the Contratones (David Margolin on fiddle, Bruce Thomson on guitar, ??? on banjo) playing sizzling dance tunes. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Old Time Music Circle, Albuquerque, Sun., September 2
Jams are 2-4 PM at the Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria NE,
Albuquerque, NM. There will be 2 groups playing in 2 separate rooms. Bluegrass music will be in the front room (entry room) and Old Time music will be in the west room (where concerts are held). Email Judy Muldawer at inquiry@siliconheights.com for more details.

Albuquerque Dance Committee Meeting, Tues., September 4
Those dances don’t just put themselves on. They need volunteers like YOU. Come Tuesday, 7-9 p.m. to Bob Cornish & Linda Starr’s house, 509 Aliso NE, Albuquerque and find out what chores need to be done. ~ 1 block S. of Lomas, 3 blocks east of Carlisle and 1 block west of Morningside.Phone 255-6037 for details. All welcome.

Corrales Sing, Friday, September 7
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Newcomers welcome! They’re meeting in September to sing of BIRDS and FEATHERS.
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT
Each participant in the circle may lead a song, do a solo, request a song, or pass. Bring enthusiasm, songbooks, instruments, beverages/snacks, kids, and friends.
Contact: Laurie McPherson 898-6978
Email: lauriemcpherson@hotmail.com or lmcpherson@salud.unm.edu
114 Coronado Road, Corrales, 87048
(Directions: From the intersection of Alameda and Coors, go 1.8 miles north on Corrales Road. Pass the Chevron station, go several blocks. Just past the Horseman’s Supply store, turn left on Coronado Road. Post office is too far. They’re the second house on the right, come in past the barns to park.)

Corinne West in Concert, Friday, Sept. 7, Madrid, NM
Appearing at The Mine Shaft Tavern
8:00 PM | themineshafttavern.com | 505-473-0743
Corinne West’s new CD Features Mike Marshall, Jerry Douglas, Darol Anger, and Tony Furtado. From Nashville, Tennessee (my old stomping grounds!), Corinne West has a rare gift—she sings as eloquently and powerfully as she writes. Her new album, Second Sight, releases October 23, 2007, with producer Mike Marshall, known for his work with David Grisman, Mark O’Connor, Bela Fleck, and Edgar Meyer. The new CD includes the world-class talent of Jerry Douglas, Darol Anger and Tony Furtado who join Marshall in fleshing out West’s potent songs. After becoming a finalist in the prestigious Kerrville Folk Festival songwriting contest, she started the national festival circuit, including a tour of England and Ireland in early 2007. Her overseas tour became possible when BBC legend Bob Harris began featuring her on his radio show. Fans across the ocean fell in love with West’s eclectic mix of folk, rock, bluegrass and Americana. The emotional power, raw soulfulness, and understated beauty of Corinne West’s music have her on the brink of stardom. Sounds like something special is happening in Madrid on September 7; be there if you can. Her web site is http://www.corinnewest.com/

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, September 8
Marj Mullany calling, Nabobs playing (Jim Mullany & Rob Pine on fiddle, Jim Mullany & Rob Pine on guitar, Tom Christensen on banjo). 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others. Santa Fe dance committee meeting at the hall before the dance, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Durango Contra Dance, Sat., September 8
Saturday September 8, is the monthly Contra Dance, to be held at the VFW Hall (1550 Main Ave., Durango, CO). Lewis Land from Carlsbad, NM will call the dance. Live music will be provided by the Kitchen Jam Band. Beginner instruction is at 7:00 p.m. Dancing is from 7:30 to 10:30. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary, and dancers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Admission is $10. First-time get a pass to come back for free. For further information, call 970-259-6820.

Albuquerque Baroque Players, Sept. 8 & 9
Sonata in Four Movements. Saturday, Sept. 8, 7:30 p.m., Los Altos Chrisitan Church, 11900 Haines NE, Albuquerque. Sunday, Sept. 9, 3 p.m., Historic Old San Ysidro Church, Corrales. $12 General, $10 Seniors, $5 Students. Call 255-7089 for reservations or visit the web site at www.unm.edu/~sbpatric

Second Sunday Dance, September 9
Noralyn Parsons and Kit French calling elegant English and zesty contras; McPapenhagens (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle, Linda Askew on guitar, Scott Mathis on mandolin and guitaron) playing. 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, September 11
Change of Venue! Join the Megaband in a jam in its new location at Wild Oats, 11015 Menaul NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, September 14
Lewis Land and Lonnie Ludeman calling this dance with SNMMDS House Band playing. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $5 all. Mesilla Community Center, 2251 Calle de Santiago, Las Cruces. It’s actually the adjacent town of Mesilla, and hall is 2 blocks west of the plaza. For info, contact 505-522-1691.

Pickin' in the Pines, Flagstaff, AZ, Sept. 14-16, 2007
Love Dave Grisman? Sweet Sunny South from southwest Colorado? How about Boulder Acoustic Society? If so, plan a road trip to Flagstaff, AZ for the Pickin’ in the Pines bluegrass music weekend. Concerts, workshops, dancing, contests, jams, etc. Details, talent lineup, and schedule of events at www.pickininthepines.org.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, September 15
Donna Howell calling and the Albuquerque Megaband playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, September 15
Contra dance at the San Geronimo Lodge, Witt Road. Starting time 7:00 p.m. Someone calling, Taos Megaband playing. Five dollars per dancer. Call 776-1580 with any questions about the dance.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, September 22
Open mike for callers, Adobe Brothers playing. Dance 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

¡Globalquerque! September 21-22, 2007
National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque
1701 4th St SW
New Mexico’s Annual Celebration of World Music and Culture will return to the NHCC in September! The third annual show will feature Planet Drumz, Koko Taylor, Baka Beyond, Yungchen Lhamo and many more great artists from all over the world! Many glorious details at www.abqmusic.com.

Hands Five in Concert, State Fair, Sunday, Sept. 23
Hey, all you Hands Five groupies–the band is playing at the Boxcar Stage at the New Mexico State Fair, on Sunday, Sept. 23rd at 5 p.m. for two hours. Go cheer them on while eating cotton candy, fry bread, and roasted corn. Full schedule at http://www.exponm.com/ns/FairEvents/calendar.asp

Albuq. House Concert, Friday, September 28
Ace guitarist Richard Smith in concert at 1000 Parkland Circle SE, 7:30 p.m. Bring your own small chair, alcohol /beverage, and a snack to share and $10 donation for Richard Smith. Hosts provide some snacks, water and an empty refrigerator. Email gcnewman@sandia.gov for directions or call 266-6928 for more info.

Three Events, Saturday, September 29
Take your pick: In Santa Fe, an evening of couples dances led by Richard Wilson, Karina and Della playing. Dance 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others. OR

In Albuquerque, TBA calling and the Sandia Hots playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others. OR

In Corrales, the Albuquerque Megaband, a big, loud and rowdy assortment of acoustic musicians affiliated with the New Mexico Folk Music and Dance Society will lead an open jam during both days of the Corrales Harvest Festival on September 29 and 30. The group mainly plays traditional fiddle and banjo dance music. The jams will be hosted by the Flying Star Restaurant in Corrales (www.flyingstarcafe.com). The dates and times are: Saturday, September 29, 7-9 p.m., and Sunday, September 30, 2-5 p.m. All acoustic musicians are invited to participate. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Looking Ahead...Oct. 26-28, Boo Camp!
Boo Camp, for the 1st time ever, will be two nights and three days of dancing! Richard Wilson calling, Three Bean Salad playing. Hummingbird Music Camp, Jemez Springs, NM. Pumpkins, costumes, fun, food, dancing, jams, singing, river, radiant gold cottonwood trees and more. Details in the flyer in your Sept/Oct FOLKMADS mailing or on the web site: www.folkmads.org.

Enjoy fall and don’t fall down.

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Howdy, Folkies,

August is especially filled with music events, including two fantastic house concerts and two weekend festivals. Read on for details. But, first, congratulations are in order to the organizers and attendees of FOLKMADS’ first Enchanted Assembly English Country Ball.

Photo by Meg Adams

Gemma and Della finally got the audience they deserved with about 70 dancers in attendance from around the southwest. Read the full report at: http://merridancing.com/wp/2007/07/enchanted-assembly-english-ball-report/. When you’re done reading, close that window to return to this blog entry.

Corrales Sing, Friday, August 3
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Newcomers welcome. They’re meeting in August to sing of Weddings, Engagements, and Marriage. Show up to learn why!!!
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT
Each participant in the circle may lead a song, do a solo, request a song, or pass. Bring enthusiasm, songbooks, instruments, beverages/snacks, kids, and friends.
Contact: Laurie McPherson 898-6978
Email: lauriemcpherson@hotmail.com or lmcpherson@salud.unm.edu
114 Coronado Road, Corrales, 87048
(Directions: From the intersection of Alameda and Coors, go 1.8 miles north on Corrales Road. Pass the Chevron station, go several blocks. Just past the Horseman’s Supply store, turn left on Coronado Road. Post office is too far. They’re the second house on the right, come in past the barns to park.)

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, August 4
Richard Wilson calling and the Adobe Brothers (Bruce Thomson on fiddle, Elliott Rogers on guitar, Janice Ryals-Rogers on bass, Tim DeYoung on mandolin, Wayne Shrubsall on banjo) playing sizzling dance tunes. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Wildlife West Music Festival, August 3–5, Edgewood, NM
Friday begins with a Country Barn Dance with Syd Masters & the Swing Riders. Saturday, August 4 features 2 covered stages with music by:
The Claire Lynch Band with Missy Raines & Jim Hurst
Cedar Hill, 2004 IBMA “Emerging Artist of theYear”
Sweet Sunny South, old time bluegrass
Mystic Lizard, New Mexico’s new hot bluegrass band.
The Nob Hillbillies
The Duke City Swampcoolers
Daybreak Express
Coyote Crossing
The Squash Blossom Boys
Fiddle and Guitar Contests start at 4pm with an instrument awarded the winner. Sunday begins at 11am with Gospel featuring:
Chris Jones & the Night Drivers
Cedar Hill and more.
Held at an Enhanced Zoo and Wildlife Refuge just 25 minutes east of Albuquerque on I-40. An event for all ages!! There are two covered stages, you don’t need to bring a chair, and it’s cooler temperatures out at Wildlife West. Camping and children under 12 are free. Call 281-7655 or go to www.wildlifewest.org/bluegrass.html

Special Durango Contra Dance, Fri. & Sat., Aug. 3 & 4
This month the Durango Contra Dancers will host three events with the Albuquerque band “One Good Turn” (Gary Papenhagen & Graham Daily on fiddle, Lou Blackwell on bass, Cleve Sharp on flute, Peter Wegner on guitar, Lou Blackwell on double bass). Friday August 3rd is a concert and open jam at the Rocky Mountain Retreat, 848 E. 3rd Ave, Durango, starting at 7:30 pm. Saturday afternoon August 4th is a special English Country Dance workshop with live music and three instructors at the Senior Center, 2424 Main Avenue, Durango, starting at 3:00 pm. Saturday evening August 4th, the Contra Dance will also be at the Senior Center, 2424 Main Avenue, with the band “One Good Turn”. Beginner instruction is at 7:00 p.m. Dancing is from 7:30 to 10:30. Wendy Graham is the caller. Admission is $10 for 1 event, $15 for 2 events, or $20 for all 3. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary, and dancers of all abilities are welcome. First-timers get a free pass to the next Contra Dance. For further information, call 970-259-6820 or 970-903-9402.

NO Old Time Music Circle, Albuquerque
The Sunday Old Time Circle will not meet in August. But there will be a circle in September, time, date and location to be announced in September enews. If you wish to receive an email reminder about this and other Old Time jams, please email Judy Muldawer at inquiry@siliconheights.com.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, August 11
Kris Jensen calling, Hands Five playing (Bruce Thomson on fiddle, Peter Esherick on hammer dulcimer, Erika Gerety on bass and mandolin, John Brinduse on guitar, Gary Blank on percussion). 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

NO Second Sunday Dance in Albuquerque in August!!! But instead….

Albuq. Concert, The Band of Heathens, August 12
Final (100th) Bosque House Concert
Band of Heathens, Sunday, August 12
6:30 pm, $15 suggested donation
Reservations required. Contact Jeff at abqmusic@att.net or use the on-line reservation system at www.abqmusic.com/houseconcerts.html.
You probably haven’t heard of The Band of Heathens, which in some ways makes them a perfect way to conclude the series, much of which has featured amazing and unknown bands. The Band of Heathens were just named best new band in the Austin Music Awards, and took 2nd place for Band, Album and Song of the Year. Their debut album is a live recording, but they have been working on their first studio album with Ray Wylie Hubbard, which will feature Patty Griffin on backup vocals on a few tracks. The group is fronted by 3 stellar Austin singer-songwriters. That’s a 3 guitar frontal assault (plus bass and drums), leading to 3 unique voices and fantastic harmonies. The best comparison for this blend of Americana, blues, gospel and R&B is The Band (you know, the one with Robbie Robertson and friends). You can stream several songs at www.bandofheathens.com.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, August 14--New Location!
Change of Venue! In a major loss for the coffeehouse and music scene, the Blue Dragon closed its doors in July 2007. The Albuquerque Megaband will “practice” on Tuesday evening, 8/14, in the community room of the Wild Oats store at 11015 Menaul NE. This is near the intersection of Menaul and Juan Tabo. They’ll play from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. The Megaband will also play for the FolkMADS dance on Saturday, 8/18, at the Heights Community Center. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729 or email him at LibTNov1@aol.com.

Albuq. House Concert, August 16
If you loved the Boulder Acoustic Society as much as the rest of the crowd at the Albuquerque Folk Festival, plan to attend their house concert:
PARKLAND CIRCLE HOUSE CONCERT, August 16, Thursday 7:30
1000 Parkland Circle SE, Albuquerque
Contact: 266-6928 or 858-3463 or email gcnewma@sandia.gov.

Photo by MRudd

They’re young, energetic, immensely talented and gonna make it “Brave Combo” or “Bills” big one day, I predict. With their fun, lively tunes, lyrics, old-time harmonies, and ensemble of instruments including guitars, marimba, violin, double bass and ukuleles, you’ll be thoroughly entertained. Bring your own small chair, alcohol, and a snack to share and $10 donation for the artists. Hosts will provide some snacks, tea, water and a cooler of ice for beers/wine etc. For live recordings: http://www.boulderacousticsociety.net/ or watch them in action at the Albuq. Folk Festival: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCvG6uXXHnU.

And speaking of Albuquerque Folk Festival...
Here are a couple more youtube videos from June 16, 2007
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ksb-8Ho5yVo (Hands Five on stage in concert)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtiF-olIFac (potpourri of workshops and demos, such as belly dancing, Irish step dancing, square dancing, and singing)

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, August 17
Lewis Land and Lonnie Ludeman calling this dance with SNMMDS House Band playing. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $5 all. Mesilla Community Center, 2251 Calle de Santiago, Las Cruces. It’s actually the adjacent town of Mesilla, and hall is 2 blocks west of the plaza. For info, contact 505-522-1691.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, August 18
Katherine Bueler from Santa Fe calling and the Albuquerque Megaband playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

No Taos Contra Dance in August!!!

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, August 25
Katherine Bueler calling, SF Megaband playing. Dance 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Santa Fe Bluegrass & Old Time Festival, August 24-26
The 33rd Annual Santa Fe Bluegrass and Old Time Music Festival is about to happen. This year’s festival includes another outstanding lineup of bands, workshops, contests and parking lot picking — fun for anyone involved. Some of our favorite local bands, including Adobe Brothers, Elliott’s Ramblers, Bayou Seco, and Fast Pesos, will play as well as out-of-state bands such as David Peterson & 1946, Badly Bent, Higher Ground, and Uncle Henry’s Favorites. As always, the festival will be held at the Santa Fe County Fairgrounds. Visit http://www.southwestpickers.org/festivals.html for details on artists, price, etc. WARNING: Driving up to Santa Fe on Saturday or Sunday, I-25 will be down to one lane each way due to construction. NM 14 on the east side of the mountain is a possibility.

THIRSTY EAR MUSIC FESTIVAL, Santa Fe
August 31 – September 2, 2007, Eaves Movie Ranch, Santa Fe
Saturday Only or Sunday Only advance $39. Two-day advance $60.
Friday night food drive. Admission is $1 and 2 cans of food Friday only.
Kids under 12 get in free.
Tickets at the Lensic Box Office 505-988-1234 or online at ThirstyEarFestival.com
Folk, blues, Cajun, zydeco, roots rock, bluegrass & alt-country artists on multiple stages. Camping, kids’ activities, arts & crafts, educational demonstrations, zydeco & Cajun dance lessons, solar & sustainable energy exhibits. Local food, microbrews & wine.

THE FLATLANDERS featuring Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Joe Ely & Butch Hancock * BEAUSOLEIL avec Michael Doucet * ROBERT EARL KEEN * THE BE GOOD TANYAS * ROSIE LEDET & THE ZYDECO PLAYBOYS * ELIZA GILKYSON * COREY HARRIS & THE 5X5 * TODD SNIDER * GUY DAVIS * JOE LOUIS WALKER & THE BOSSTALKERS * RICHARD JOHNSTON * SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST * TRIO JALAPENO * RYAN McGARVEY * JERRY FAIRES * HIGHER GROUND * BOUZOUKI EXPLOSION * LAST TO KNOW * JENNY GAMBLE & more

¡Globalquerque! September 21-22, 2007
National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque
1701 4th St SW
New Mexico’s Annual Celebration of World Music and Culture will return to the NHCC in September! The third annual show will feature Planet Drumz, Koko Taylor, Baka Beyond, Yungchen Lhamo and many more great artists from all over the world! Details at www.abqmusic.com.

Harvest Moon Dance Camp, Santa Barbara, CA, Sept. 28-30
This weekend is filling fast! The entire dance weekend will be at the legendary sprung floor located at the Carrillo Ballroom. $120.00 registration fee does NOT include accommodations. There is a gender-balance waiting list for single women at this point. There is still room for single men and couples.
Presenting: Notorious with Larry Unger, guitar and banjo player extraordinaire; Eden MacAdam-Somer, an exciting and versatile fiddler; Sam Bartlett, a mandolin master; Mark Hellenburg, an incredible percussionist; and Ralph Gordon, driving on cello and bass. Special Guest, Bill Tomczak on clarinet and saxophone! Virginia caller: Shawn Brenneman calling clear, concise, smooth dances. Plus an afternoon of Swing Dancing with Rockin’ Rob Rio! A bonus: Sunday evening dance with Notorious and Shawn, 7-10pm, $10 for HM participants, $15 for all others. Applications can be obtained on line by going to www.sbcds.org/hm Questions? Email Kelli Butler at harvestmoon@sbcds.org or call Kelli (805) 649-5189.

Hope that’s enough music and dance news for you. Enjoy this last summer month.

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Happy Summer, Folkies,

Call me crazy, but I think 07/07/07 would be a great wedding anniversary! I happen to be at the Heights Community Center that night calling a dance, so if you bring a marriage license there, I can hitch you right up. Just a thought. Visit http://www.bernco.gov/live/departments.asp?dept=2315&submenuid=2432#marriage for info.

FOLKMADS Treasurer Joli Sharp wrote, “THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR CAMP DONATIONS! I would like to say Thank You to everyone who added donations to their camp fees this year (there were a lot of you), and to one particularly generous anonymous donor. The camp raffle had an especially good showing. Your enthusiastic support of camp decreases the anxiety among those of us who are noticing whether the ends meet, and makes it possible for us to entertain the thought of spending more in areas that would improve the camp.”

Albuquerque Concert, Sunday, July 1
THE IGUANAS at 8:00 pm
Puccini’s Golden West Saloon, 620 Central Ave SW
21 and over.
$15 advance, $20 door
Tickets at abqmusic.com, Bookworks and Natural Sound

New Orleans is known for its unique fusions in food, music and culture. In that respect, The Iguanas are typically New Orleans. But like gumbo, everyone combines their influences in different ways. For the Iguanas, it’s a melding of the blues, classic R&B, zydeco, cajun, Tex-Mex and roots rock & roll – and the result is a rollicking good time. On their last release, “Plastic Silver 9-Volt Heart”, The Iguanas pump up the Latin and Mexican influences, which garnered them positive comparisons to Los Lobos. Look for a standard rock band fleshed out with two saxophones and accordion to create that swampy New Orleans groove — the perfect way to start a 4th of July holiday week!

Corrales Sing, Friday, July 6
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Newcomers welcome! They’re meeting in July to sing of Babies, Children and Grandparents AND the 4th of July, a double feature.
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH, 8:00 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT
Each participant in the circle may lead a song, do a solo, request a song, or pass. Bring enthusiasm, songbooks, instruments, beverages/snacks, kids, and friends.
Contact: Laurie McPherson 898-6978
Email: lauriemcpherson@hotmail.com or lmcpherson@salud.unm.edu
114 Coronado Road, Corrales, 87048
(Directions: From the intersection of Alameda and Coors, go 1.8 miles north on Corrales Road. Pass the Chevron station, go several blocks. Just past the Horseman’s Supply store, turn left on Coronado Road. Post office is too far. They’re the second house on the right, come in past the barns to park.)

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, July 7
Merri Rudd calling and the Friends (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle, Bo Olcott on guitar, Lou Blackwell on bass) playing smokin’ hot dance tunes this post-July 4th weekend. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

Durango Contra Dance, Saturday, July 7
Caller is ??? with live music by Durango’s Kitchen Jam Band. VFW Hall, 1550 Main Avenue, Durango. Beginner instruction is at 7:00 p.m. Dancing is from 7:30 to 10:30. For further information, call 970-259-6820 or 970-903-9402.

Old Time Music Circle, Albuquerque, Sunday, July 8
The Old Time Music Circle Jam is not meeting at Covenant Presbyterian Church in July. However, if anyone wants to get together to play on July 8, Judy Muldawer is happy to host the circle at her house. Email her at inquiry@siliconheights.com.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, July 14
Richard Wilson calling, Sandia Hots playing (Liz Stevens on fiddle, Mike Gallagher on banjo, Linda Askew on guitar, Scott Mathis on mandolin and guitarron). 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

NO Second Sunday Dance in Albuquerque in July!!!

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, July 17
Join the Megaband in a jam at the Blue Dragon, 1517 Girard NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

No Las Cruces Contra Dance in July!!!

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, July 21
Wendy Graham from Durango calling and the Albuquerque Megaband playing. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam at 6:30 p.m. and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $6 members, $7 others.

No Taos Contra Dance in July!!!
Alas, due to a venue scheduling glitch, no dance will occur in Taos in July. Also, none in August. Dances resume at San Geronimo Lodge in September.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, July 28
Open Mic dance, Karina and Della playing (Karina’s fiddling grows more beautiful with each gig). Potluck at 6 p.m., Dance 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Adobe Brothers in Concert, Saturday, July 28
Flying Star Restaurant on 4501 Juan Tabo (www.flyingstarcafe.com/). Eat some yummy treats while listening to the well-honed tunes of one of Albuquerque’s oldest and finest bands.

Pickin' in the Pines, Santa Fe, Sunday, July 29
Pickin’ in the Pines will be held again this year on Sunday, July 29th, at 1 pm at Shelter #3 at Hyde Memorial State Park , just north of Santa Fe. Hotdogs, hamburgers, and cold water will be provided, and you are encouraged to bring side dishes and deserts. This has been an extremely popular event for many years with great picking, singing, and socializing among all Southwest Pickers members. Don’t forget sweaters, since late afternoon thunderstorms will frequently drop the temperature into the 60’s. For directions to the park see:
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formtype=address&country=US&popflag=0&latitude=&longitude=&name=&phone=&level=&addtohistory=&cat=Hyde+Memorial+State+Park&address=740+Hyde+Park+road&city=Santa+Fe&state=nm&zipcode=

Albuquerque House Concert, Tuesday, July 31
AMY SPEACE & THE TEARJERKS, 7:30 pm
$12 suggested donation
Reservations required. Contact Jeff at abqmusic@att.net or use the on-line reservation system at www.abqmusic.com/houseconcerts.html
Prepare for an intimate night of unplugged folk-rock with Amy and band take over Jeff’s living room. Amy covers a wide range of topics, from the heartrending (“I feel like I’m dying, and I’m always crying. If this is what love is, make me lonely again”) to the defiant (“Do I make you blush, do I talk too loud. Do I drink too much, do I act too proud? Well take me as I am
or take another now ’cause I am not going to change for nobody no how”). She’s got full on rockers and country weepers, an Americana Blondie cover and an uproarious tale of white trash love.

Looking Ahead, Albuq. House Concert, August 16
If you loved the Boulder Acoustic Society as much as the rest of the crowd at the Albuquerque Folk Festival, plan to attend their house concert:
PARKLAND CIRCLE HOUSE CONCERT, August 16, Thursday 7:30
1000 Parkland Circle SE, Albuquerque
Contact: 266-6928 or 858-3463 or email gcnewma@sandia.gov.
They’re young, energetic, immensely talented and gonna make it “Brave Combo” or “Bills” big one day, I predict. With their fun, lively tunes, lyrics, old-time harmonies, and ensemble of instruments including guitars, marimba, violin, double bass and ukuleles, you’ll be thoroughly entertained. Bring your own small chair, alcohol, and a snack to share and $10 donation for the artists. Hosts will provide some snacks, tea, water and a cooler of ice for beers/wine etc. For live recordings: http://www.boulderacousticsociety.net/

¡Globalquerque! September 21-22, 2007
National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque
1701 4th St SW
New Mexico’s Annual Celebration of World Music and Culture will return to the NHCC in September! The third annual show will feature Planet Drumz, Koko Taylor, Baka Beyond, Yungchen Lhamo and many more great artists from all over the world! Details at www.abqmusic.com.

Stay cool.

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com