Howdy, Folkies,

Biggest August news is…..finally, after several years of waiting, we get to dance at the Heights Community Center in Albuquerque once again. For those who don’t know, the Heights has been our dance home for thirty years, featuring a beautiful wood floor, great stage area for the band and caller, plus a ‘visiting room’ just off the main dance hall. Make note of the new times–Heights dances will start at 7:30 p.m. and end promptly at 10:30 p.m. The FOLKMADS calendar has incorrect times for the Albuquerque August dances.

John Brinduse says it best, “WE’RE GOING HOME!!!! And we owe a HUGE debt of thanks to Scott Mathis and Joli Sharp! When Heights was still under construction and the City was giving us little progress information, Scott went down several times to the site and spoke with supervisors and sub-contractors. He kept on it and kept contacting the City. Then at the last Board meeting, 7/10, just one day before he and Linda were driving to California for a Festival and a gig, he brought the contract that the City had just given him that day… We went over it at the meeting, and decided, once there were a few clarifications, to proceed with it. With Scott out of state, Joli (who was tying up loose ends in preparation for a long stretch out-of-state herself), stepped up and took over. She contacted the City, clarified the questions we had about event times and security, investigated the insurance situation, took steps to get the policy renewed and had a back up agent in case that fell through, went down to the City, paid them and signed the contract, and then got the insurance documents to them. All this with a full-time job and a Grand Canyon trip to pack for! What a Treasurer! Above and beyond! So, now that we have our Home Base back, I hope to see all of you at the August 5th Dance, except for Joli, whom I wish Bon Voyage and a safe journey down the Colorado. Bravo Scott! Bravo Joli! What a team! –John Brinduse, Board Member, FolkMADS”

Taos Tin Whistle Classes start on Tuesday, August 1st
Learn to Play the Tin Whistle! an Eight Week Class with Master Celtic Musician Roger Landes. Celtic Music is Fun! Beginners Welcome! Jigs, Reels, Hornpipes, Slides, Marches, Polkas, Slip Jigs, Mazurkas, Slow Airs. The Humble Tin Whistle is one of the Simplest and Least Expensive Instruments in the World, but it is also one of the most Enjoyable and Challenging! Join Roger for an 8-week exploration of the Tin Whistle and Celtic Music! You don?t have to read music or even to have played an instrument before. All classes on Tuesday evenings, August 1st through September 19th, at a private home in Taos. Please contact him if you are interested in attending but are not yet on the list. They still need a few more people to make our minimum. Each session lasts 2 hours. Cost is $10 per week for 8 weeks, payable in advance or in two, four-week payments of $40. Whistles (key of “D”) are available at Que Pasa, 338 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, (505) 758-7344. Tell them Roger sent you! For more information Call or Email Roger: 751-3512, rwlandes@taosnet.com.

Albuquerque Concert, Thursday, August 3
The Greencards, N4th Theater, 4904 4th St NW (at Griegos)
7:30 PM, $15 advance, $20 at the door.
Tickets at abqmusic.com, Bookworks and Natural Sound
Bosque Concerts is thrilled to bring The Greencards back to Albuquerque. Last time they were here they packed the Windchime Gallery for a night of high energy folk-influenced bluegrass. Since then, they’ve been touring steadily and winning fans all over the country and the world, including a recent appearance at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Members of the band hail from Australia and the UK, which gives them a somewhat different take on bluegrass. This is how the Rocky Mountain News described their Telluride set: “The Austin, Texas-based ensemble of two Australians and a Brit plays Celtic-influenced, bluegrass-flavored originals. That they sound so quintessentially American speaks to the universality of acoustic music and the band’s instrumental prowess. It’s a band to reckon with in acoustic circles.”

Corrales Sing, Friday, August 4
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. They’re meeting to sing as usual on Friday, August 4th. August’s theme is
HILLS, MOUNTAINS, AND VALLEYS.
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 5
Marj Mullany will call with One Good Turn (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle, Peter Wegman on guitar, Graham Daily on fiddle, and Lou Blackwell on bass). playing rollicking dance tunes. Remember new starting and ending times: 7:30 – 10:30 p.m., acoustic jam and newcomers class at 7 p.m. Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE!!!. One block east of University and just 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, August 5
Saturday evening August 5, is the monthly Contra Dance. It will be held this month at the Senior Center, 2424 Main Avenue, between the High School and the Fairgrounds. 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 abilities are welcome. Admission is $10. Live music will be provided by the band Loose Ends from Flagstaff. Local callers Wendy Graham and Paul Bendt will conduct the dance. For further information, call KAY ZILLICH 970-259-6820.

Wildlife West Music Festival, Saturday, August 5 AND Sunday, August 6
Don?t miss John McCutcheon this Saturday and Sunday, August 5 & 6. The Wildlife West Music Series features John McCutcheon, Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike, Raising Cane and the Nob Hillbillies. John McCutcheon is one of our most respected and loved folk singers who doesn?t get to New Mexico very often. An instrumentalist with a mastery of a dozen different traditional instruments, John?s songwriting has been hailed by critics and singers around the globe. His twenty-four recordings have garnered every imaginable honor, including five Grammy nominations. Don?t miss John?s concerts at 3 and 7pm on Sunday, and 8pm on Saturday. Concerts start at 1 on Sunday and the Guitar Contest is at 4 with a guitar awarded the winner. Evening concerts continue at 5 until 8. John McCutcheon also performs Saturday evening at the Chuck Wagon BBQ. Make reservations by 2pm Saturday (281-7655) for dinner and concert. A number of folks will be camping Saturday night, so come out and jam under the stars after John?s concert. Just 25 minutes east of Albuquerque, events are held in a covered amphitheater. You don?t need chairs, you?re not sitting in the sun, and even if it rains, you?re covered. Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike were nominated for the 1999 and 2000 IBMA ?Emerging Artist of the Year? award. Valerie?s fascination with music began at the age of five. She can belt out a bluegrass toe-tapper one minute and tear out your heart with a country-flavored ballad the next. Her boundless energy and explosive delivery will be featured at 2 and 6pm Sunday. Raising Cane is a favorite band in the Southwest, performing at 1 and 5pm. You’ll be able to check out their new CD. The New Talent Showcase at 4:30 features Albuquerque?s own Nob Hillbillies. There are workshops at 5 in Songwriting, Fiddle, Dobro and Bass, plus jam sessions throughout the day. There?s plenty of food, free dry camping, and admission is just $15 at the gate, children under 12 are free. Call 281-7655, or check out www.wildlifewest.org .

Taos Concert, Sunday, August 6
Radio Free Bassanda!
Music from the Mediterranean, Near East and Balkans at the Adobe Bar in the Taos Inn
Sunday, August 6th, 2006, 7:00-10:00pm
Radio Free Bassanda! was founded out of a shared interest in the various modal musics from around the Mediterranean, the Middle & Near East, and the Balkans. Modal music is one of the oldest types of music, while remaining the dominant musical language in many parts of the world. Modal musics emphasize melody and rhythm rather than harmony and they invariably contain a great deal of improvisation and spontaneous invention. 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 – plucked strings, Arabic Oud (lute), Turkish Lavta, Irish bouzouki, Greek Laouto; Chipper Thompson – percussion: Arabic Dumbeq and Riqq Turkish Darabukka, Persian Zarb; Ben Wright – Double Bass. More info, Roger Landes, rwlandes@taosnet.com. New website! http://rogerlandes.com

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, August 12
Donna Howell teaching workshops and then calling the evening dance with One Good Turn. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others for evening dance, not sure how much workshops cost. There will be two couples dance workshops (waltz at 3, and zweifache at 4:30), followed by a community potluck at 6 and the regular contradance at 8! WALTZ workshop (at precisely 3 p.m.) No partners necessary, and men are encouraged to attend since the emphasis will be on leading. All experience levels welcome (and encouraged!) The workshop will cover these important points:
FRAME: “You stay in your space, I’ll stay in mine” or why its easier to move the box spring than the mattress;
LEADING: The gentle art of moving a 120 pound barrel with a triple jointed swivel handle;
FOLLOWING: Why a woman should never be light as a feather in a man’s arms; and
WHY A WALTZ IS NEVER COUNTED 1,2,3-1,2,3. If you don’t know where the 4 is, you’ll never be able to lead.

Then, the rhythmic delights of ZWIEFACHE (at precisely 4:30 p.m.): Zwiefache are tunes and dances that change time signatures between 2/4 and 3/4. Dancers alternate between waltz steps and quick spinning pivots. They are the easiest and most fun turning couple dances and are done as “break” or final pieces at contra dances across the country. Zwiefache are a very old form of music, documented back to the middle of the 16th century. In parts of Europe in earlier centuries they were banned because they “excited peasants to rebellious emotions” and featured the “shameless turning” of women by men (of course, waltzes ran into the same problems). Each highly melodic zwiefacher has its own formula, learned by listening to the music to hear the changing meter. A zwiefacher will put you in touch with the music like no other dance and will vastly improve your frame for waltzing.

Santa Fe Concerts, August 12
Rodney Crowell & Nanci Griffith at Paolo Soleri Amphitheater. Santa Fe Indian School, 1501 Cerrillos Road Santa Fe. 505-989-6318. Or Anoushka Shankar at the Lensic, www.lensic.com, your choice.

No Second Sunday Dance in August in Albuquerque!!

Albuquerque House Concert, Monday, August 14
Bosque House Concert #89, The Texas Sapphires, 7:30 pm, $12 minimum suggested donation
Contact Jeff at abqmusic@att.net for reservations, or use our on-line registration at www.abqmusic.com/houseconcerts.html
It’s always fun to have a large, unamplified band drop by the house concerts. The Texas Sapphires are a quintet who play hard-driving traditional country. You’ve got dueling male/female lead vocals drenched with weeping dobro and a solid back beat. Their debut album “Valley So Steep” was produced by the talented Texas musician Lloyd Maines, who has done fine work on CD’s by Ruthie Foster, Susan Gibson, The Waybacks and The Dixie Chicks. They seem to be taking Austin by storm, winning the Austin Chronicle’s Critics’ Poll for best new band in 2005, and were named the best new band in 2006 in the Readers’ Poll and at the Austin Music Awards. The Austin Chronicle says “”This is what country music is supposed to sound like: Banjo, guitar, bass, and drums, with a Tammy Wynette voice courtesy of Rebecca Cannon. The Sapphires plunder the classic country catalog with organic, homespun panache … you could close your eyes and imagine them doing their sprawling happy hour sets on a front porch in some lost Tennessee holler.”

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, August 15
Join the Megaband on Tuesday, August 15, at the Blue Dragon, 1517 Girard NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Albuquerque House Concert, Friday, August 18
Nathan Knowles and Deena Smith
7:30 p.m., 1000 Parkland Circle SE, Albuquerque
266-6928 or 858-3463, or email gcnewma@sandia.gov
Nathan Knowles and Deena Smith are both multi-instrumental singer songwriters of swing and jazz with a spice of folk, rock, blues, country, bluegrass and everything in between. Their repertoire includes songs by Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller, Django Reinhardt, Johnny Mercer, Van Morrison, Jackson Browne and Delbert McClinton. Please come early, bring a small folding chair, your favorite beverage, and a $10-buck donation for the traveling duo. There will be about 25 chairs for the early birds. Snacks, tea and a cooler of ice for your drinks provided. For a live recording, log onto their website and click on Hear Our Music, http://www.musicalchairsproductions.com.

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, August 18
Dance cancelled due to family emergency. They will resume the dance in September.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, August 19
Linda Starr and Lewis Land calling to the hot old-time tunes of the Albuquerque Megaband. 7:30-10:30 p.m., Heights Community Center, 823 Buena Vista SE (1 block east of University, south of Lead/Coal). Acoustic jam and instruction at 7 p.m. Members $6; nonmembers $7. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please.

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, August 19
Dance at the San Geronimo Lodge, Witt Road. Dance starts at 7:00 p.m. and goes until 10. Want more info? Call 758-7362 (Ellen) or 776-1580 (Jim and Hope). Caller Katherine Bueler and the Taos ContraBand playing.

Silver City Dance, Saturday, August 19th
The Silver Heels Community Dance Band presents an old-time community dance at the Unitarian Fellowship Hall, 3845 N. Swan St. from 7:30 to 10:00 pm. All dances taught, no partner necessary. Virginia Reel, La Bastrange, Waltzes and 2 steps, Polkas and Rancheras, the Broom Dance, and lots more… Children welcome. Admission by donation, refreshments will be available. Information: 388-1727. Press contact: Doug Abbott, 388-4879.

Santa Fe Bandstand 2006 - Free Concert on the Plaza
Tuesday, Aug 22 2006
The Plaza in Santa Fe
Free concert on the plaza featuring Love Buzzards, a reunion of old friends who love traditional folk music. I think Love Buzzards are Ted Seeley, Miguel Combs, Cary Stickney and possibly Haywood Martin, good old-time dance musicians and dancers!
Contact: Santa Fe Bandstand, 505-986-6054
http://www.santafebandstand.org

Santa Fe Contra Dance and Farewell to Marti Buck, Saturday, August 26
Alas, Santa Fe dancer Marti Buck is moving to Walla Walla, WA to work in northeastern Oregon. She is planning a farewell potluck before the regularly scheduled 4th Saturday dance in August.
So, mark your calendar to attend the “going away potluck for Marti Buck,” August 26 at Odd Fellows Hall, Santa Fe. Set up at 5:30, any help would be greatly appreciated. Feel free to call Marti at 505-455-9335 or email martibuck@hotmail.com . Lesson and dance will begin as usual. Open caller’s mike and SF Community Band playing for the evening dance. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque Concert, Saturday, August 26
Asylum Street Spankers
Outpost Performance Space, 210 Yale SE
8 PM, $15 in advance, $20 at the door
Tickets at abqmusic.com, Bookworks and Natural Sound
The Asylum Street Spankers are a band that defies categorization. They really have to be experienced live. Known for incorporating everything from hip hop to bluegrass into their set, a typical Asylum Street Spankers set includes:
– Late 20’s jazz a la the Squirrel Nut Zippers
– a bluegrass version of a Beastie Boys song
– early jazz and blues standards
– Acoustic covers of Black Flag (as a hoedown), the B-52’s and The Jazz Butcher
– A beautiful instrumental waltz on clarinet, banjo, fiddle and stand-up bass, with the lead taken on saw.
– Country & Western gangster ballads melded with gangster rap
with live sampling of classic southern rock and scratching – on a dobro.
Warning: The Spankers are known for their irreverence and love to push boundaries. Bawdy lyrics and profanity are pretty much guaranteed!

Make a mental note re: ABQ Sept. 2 Dance
Due to the holiday weekend, this dance will be back at the Albuquerque Square Dance Center. Katherine Bueler calling. Then we go back to the Heights Community Center on September 16 with Richard Wilson calling to the Megaband!

This and That
Annual Santa Fe Festival in August: Mark your calendars this month for the annual SANTA FE BLUEGRASS & OLD TIME MUSIC FESTIVAL, AUGUST 25-27, 2006. Visit www.southwestpickers.com for information and to purchase discounted weekend passes with FREE camping.

Albuquerque Journal Article on Contra Dancing: Some of you are famous! There was a great article with color photos (you’ll recognize a lot of yourselves) in the Sunday Albuquerque Journal Boomer magazine on July 23. An e-version is available at http://epaper.abqjournal.com/Repository/ml.asp?Ref=U1AvMjAwNi8wNy8yMyNBcjAwNDAw&Mode=HTML&Locale=english-skin-custom.

Mark your calendars for Globalquerque! Saturday and Sunday, September 23 & 24: ?Globalquerque! – at the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Early Bird tickets at http://www.globalquerque.com/ticketspecial.html

Wasatch Wiggle Utah Dance Camp Report: Albuquerque dancer Richard Riger posted a blog entry about his first out-of-state dance camp at http://folkmadsroadtrips.blogspot.com/ My own Wiggle report is the next entry on my full blog (www.merridancing/com/wp) below this enews.

Summer Nights Concert Info: At the Albuquerque Aquarium and Biopark; http://mesa.cabq.gov/cityapps/noticias.nsf/691720db7823c3eb87256ee5006e4876/4d5c257c530ef7688725713800592b9b?OpenDocument

Albuquerque Zoo Concerts: http://mesa.cabq.gov/cityapps/noticias.nsf/691720db7823c3eb87256ee5006e4876/9c7dd98b923d63cb8725713a005f7aa4?OpenDocument

And finally, the “Geezerization” of our music and dance community: I think fiddler Bruce Thomson coined the term “geezerization,” a humorous way to note that most of us are over 50, and many are close to or over 60 now. We want to see traditional folk music and dance continue beyond us. So we’re starting the discussion. I chimed in with, “Most of us are in our 50’s and 60’s. Between the Mullany children, ages 10 and 12, and the rest of us, ages 50-65, there is a HUGE 40 to 50 year gap in age [Joli and Wendy Graham being exceptions]. We desperately need to recruit several 100 young (ages 20-30) dancers, musicians and callers to secure the future of folk music and dance in general and FOLKMADS specifically. Ten or 15 years down the line, without new blood, here in NM the music/dance train will become extinct. It’s a sobering prospect.” In response, Joli Sharp (one of our vibrant 30-something-year-olds, wrote, “Yes….and there will come a sad time in my life when all my (geezerized) friends are gone and I will be dancing alone to recordings of them. But how does one make other people like oldtime music???? You like it or you don’t. And a warning: we shall not schmooze too heavily and drool upon any twenty-something that happens to come among us. The women will think us lecherous, and run screaming out the door (really. I have seen it happen). And the men will just think us…..creepy. I think we need an outdoor festival, rustic, with great food and beer-powered latenight jamming, and vendors selling very artful hippie stuff. We need to invite the Foghorn String Band, and Rayna Gellert, and get into some of the great high-energy younger oldtime bands that are out there. We need a hip logo and great art, and we need to allow our dances to be vigorous and rowdy, even if it’s not what we are used to and it Scares us. We have a lot to overcome before this can happen, not the least of which is being willing to let things change. I think they will change, even if it’s eventually and over our dead bodies. But I don’t think we are ready, and that is ok. I like geezers just fine. Joli”

Send me your own thoughts about geezerization and anything else, and I’ll post them on next month’s blog. That’s all for now. Enjoy the monsoons!

Merri Rudd, email: merri@merridancing.com
Albuquerque NM
www.merridancing.com

Hi, Folkies,

This will be my only July folk enews. I periodically post updates during the month without notice, so if you check back on occasion throughout the month, you may find something new to do. There are no dances in Las Cruces or Durango in July, and no 2nd Sunday dance in Albuquerque either!!! Because there is less going on, make your choices count!

I saw a few folkies among the 50 people attending the Ferintosh house concert. What a treat–Cape Breton fiddle (David Greenberg), cello (Abby Newton) and harp (Kim Robertson) in a beautiful home with homemade treats by Dennis Vik. Yeah to Dennis & Linda for hosting such a fine event! Even the sunset was spectacular. I sat with a couple of Katie Harlow’s music students, small world in Albuquerque being what it is.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, July 1
Merri Rudd will call with the Five-Dog String Band playing hot, original (and possibly patriotic) old-time music. (David Margolin on fiddle, Steve Huestis on banjo, Rick Olcott on guitar) playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Note new admission prices (1st price increase in a long time!): $6 members, $7 others.

Albuquerque House Concert, Sunday, July 2
Mike West and Katie Euliss
7:30 p.m.
1000 Parkland Circle SE, Albuquerque
266-6928 or 858-3463, or email gcnewma@sandia.gov
http://www.mikewest.net/truckstop_honeymoon/contact.html
Truckstop Honeymoon without a doubt have some of the best lyrics you’ll ever hear that will keep you laughing and entertained for weeks to come. Please come early, bring a small folding chair, your favorite beverage, and a $10-buck donation for the traveling duo. There will be about 25 chairs for the early birds. Snacks, tea and a cooler of ice for your drinks provided. Open Jam after the show.

No Durango, Colorado Contra Dance in July!!!

Bosque House Concert, Monday July 3, Albuquerque
Albert & Gage
7:30 pm
$12 suggested minimum donation
Contact Jeff for reservations at abqmusic@att.net, 505-842-5073 or make them on-line at www.abqmusic.com/houseconcerts.html
Chris Gage is an alumni of Roy Clark and Jimmy Dale Gilmore’s band. He’s in high demand on the Austin music scene, and you quickly realize why when you see his mastery of piano, guitar and accordion. Long ago, Christine Albert got her start performing with Eliza Gilkyson in Santa Fe. She was a favorite at Kerrville and performed on Austin City Limits before joining forces with Chris. The duo’s diversity is legendary, shifting from the crowd pleasing Dan Hicks Western Swing of “Up, Up, Up” to a lovely Edith Piaf torch song (in French). Christine has released two CD’s entitled Texafrance which playfully connect her French/Swiss roots with her longtime Austin home. After this house concert, they’ll be back for another visit to the Botanic Gardens on July 6 and will be playing the Santa Fe Plaza on July 5. Jeff’s house, a fantastic concert venue, will offer the most intimate of their New Mexico performances.

Corrales Sing, Friday, July 7
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. They’re meeting to sing as usual on Friday, July 7th. The theme, predictably enough, is PATRIOTISM AND FREEDOM. Don’t forget that those sentiments can refer to almost any country or time in history. Also don’t forget a key concept: “Dissent is Patriotic”!
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.)

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, July 8
Katherine Bueler of Santa Fe is calling with the String Banditos (I don’t know who they are). 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. Note new admission prices (1st price increase in a long time!): $6 members, $7 others.

No Second Sunday Dance in July in Albuquerque!! But there is a fun concert nearby...

Wildlife West Music Festival, Sunday, July 9
1 p.m. until 9 p.m. Concerts and workshops with Byron Berline Band, Karl Shiflett & Big Country Show Hot Club of Santa Fe. Workshops in Songwriting, Fiddle, Guitar and Dobro in Edgewood, New Mexico. This one includes a fiddle contest with a fiddle awarded courtesy of The Violin Shop in Santa Fe. $15 at the gate, children under 12 free. More info at: www.wildlifewest.org

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, July 11
Join the Megaband on Tuesday, June 13, at the Blue Dragon, 1517 Girard NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, July 15
Kris Jensen will call with the Albuquerque Megaband. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Note new admission prices (1st price increase in a long time!): $6 members, $7 others.

Taos Dance Moved to July 22 (see below)!

4th Saturday, Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, July 22
Linda Starr calling her first whole night of dances, Five-Dog String Band (David Margolin on fiddle, Steve Huestis on banjo, Rick Olcott on guitar) playing, 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. Note new admission prices (1st price increase in a long time!): $6 members, $7 others.

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, July 22
In order to use Taos’s favorite dance floor, the best in all of Taos, at the San Geronimo Lodge, Witt Road, they will be dancing on the 4th Saturday — July 22 — this month. THERE WILL BE NO TAOS DANCE ON JULY15th!! Dance starts at 7:00 p.m. and goes until 10. Want more info? Call 758-7362 (Ellen) or 776-1580 (Jim and Hope). Caller Jim Buechler and the Taos ContraBand playing, as far as I know.

5th Saturday, Santa Fe English Country Dance, Saturday, July 29
Details unknown. If someone sends me the info, I’ll post it!

This and That
Summer Nights Concert Info: At the Albuquerque Aquarium and Biopark; http://mesa.cabq.gov/cityapps/noticias.nsf/691720db7823c3eb87256ee5006e4876/4d5c257c530ef7688725713800592b9b?OpenDocument

Albuquerque Zoo Concerts: http://mesa.cabq.gov/cityapps/noticias.nsf/691720db7823c3eb87256ee5006e4876/9c7dd98b923d63cb8725713a005f7aa4?OpenDocument

Miguel Combs in Concert in Santa Fe: At upper Crust Pizza in Friday, July 7 and Saturday July 29. Both at 6-9pm. Corner of De Vargas and Old Sta. Fe Trail, info: 982-0000. Michael Combs, bearded bard, sings Acoustic Vintage Country, Mexican, and Traditional Folk on Fiddle, 12-string guitar and button accordion. Chickenscratch on request.

Annual Santa Fe Festival in August: Mark your calendars now for the annual SANTA FE BLUEGRASS & OLD TIME MUSIC FESTIVAL, AUGUST 25-27, 2006. Visit www.southwestpickers.com for information and to purchase discounted weekend passes with FREE camping.

Mark your calendars for Globalquerque! Saturday and Sunday, September 23 & 24: ?Globalquerque! – at the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Early Bird tickets at http://www.globalquerque.com/ticketspecial.html

Looking FAR Ahead: The next ZoukFest World Music Camp will take place from Sunday, June 10th to Saturday, June 16th, 2007 at the College of Santa Fe in Santa Fe, New Mexico! The College of Santa Fe Contemporary Music Program has generously offered to host ZoukFest 2007. Visit www.zoukfest.com for details.

That’s all for now. Enjoy the hot summer days and breezy nights!

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque NM
www.merridancing.com

Hi, Folkies,

This will be my only June folk enews. HOWEVER, I may post updates during the month without notice, so you die-hard blog-lovers can check back on occasion throughout the month. What an amazing assortment of news and events June brings. There is no Las Cruces Contra Dance in June!!!

Mark your calendars for the 12-hour+ Albuquerque Folk Festival on June 17 (more below). Those who want to be “dance angels” at the noon contra dance workshop should email me immediately at abogada@aol.com to reserve a wrist band and possible parking pass. I have 12 wristbands and 5 parking passes.

Corrales Sing, Friday, June 2
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. They’re meeting to sing as usual this Friday June 2nd, and the theme is HORSES, WAGONS, CARRIAGES, AND BLACKSMITHS.
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, June 3

Photo of Peg Hesley by Merri Rudd (c) 2006

Phoenix caller Peg Hesley graces the mike with the Virginia Creepers playing hot, old-time music. (Bruce Thomson and Peter White on fiddle, Steve Huestis on banjo, Rick Olcott on guitar, Laurie Phillips on mandolin, Scott Mathis on bass) playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. $5 members, $6 others.

Durango, Colorado Contra Dance, June 3
Saturday evening June 3rd, the monthly Contra Dance will be held at the VFW Hall, 1515 Main Avenue. Beginner instruction is at 7:00 p.m. Dancing is from 7:30 to 10:30. Special Guest caller Adina Gordon from Radford, Virginia, will call the dance. Live Music will be provided by members of the Kitchen Jam Band featuring Elizabeth Shaffer, formerly of Beltaine, on fiddle. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary, and dancers of all abilities are welcome. Admission is $10. These smoke-and alcohol-free dances are a project of the Durango Arts Center. For further information, call 259-6820.

Bosque House Concert, Sunday June 4, Albuquerque
THE BOULDER ACOUSTIC SOCIETY , 6:30 pm — Note the early start time
(near Old Town Albuquerque, directions provided with reservations)
$12 Suggested minimum donation
Reservations required. Contact Jeff at abqmusic.com or make them on-line at www.abqmusic.com/houseconcerts.html
With a marimba and several ukuleles, you’ll be impressed with the funky blend of instruments and the variety of their music. The band mixes up jazz, swing, bluegrass, surf music and more, with a great set of originals and covers arranged to fit their unique instrumental make-up.Listen to some samples at www.boulderacousticsociety.net

Albuquerque Concert, Wednesday, June 7
SLAID CLEAVES, 7:30 pm
N4th Theater, (4904 4th St NW, at Griegos) with special guest Rod Picott
Tickets: $15 advance
Tickets are currently only available on-line at www.abqmusic.com, at Bookworks
and Natural Sound.
This wonderful 150-seat theater attached to the North Fourth Art Center promises to be a new focal point for theater, dance and music in Albuquerque. Slaid was named a Kerrville New Folk winner in 1992 and went on to release a handful of well regarded albums since then. His music is firmly Americana, that country-tinged darker cousin of folk. Geoffrey Himes of the Washington Post says: “”… darkness and weight can be found on Cleaves’s new album, “Wishbones,” a breakthrough project that fulfills his early promise and ushers him into the company of such Texans as Alejandro Escovedo, Joe Ely, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Guy Clark, Ray Wylie Hubbard and Lucinda Williams.” Slaid throws a bit of a curve ball with his new CD “Unsung”. It’s all cover songs, though they are all obscure enough that most people won’t recognize them. Slaid will be performing as as a trio with folky Rod Picott opening the show. www.slaidcleaves.com or www.rodpicott.com

Albuquerque Bluegrass Concert, Thursday, June 8
The Hickory Project
Thursday June 8th at 7:00 pm
Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria NE.
$10.00 Members, $12.00 Non-Members
What started as a routine experiment has turned into a revolutionary project, henceforth known as The Hickory Project. The band features hard?driving traditional and original bluegrass and acoustic music with the expert licks of 1999 Walnut Valley Mandolin Champion Anthony Hannigan and Florida Fiddle Champion Sue Cunningham providing the foundation for an outstanding performance. The Hickory Project has produced six CDs and a DVD under their own label, Hickory Productions. The group is known for precision playing, instrumental acrobatics, diverse and prolific songwriting, and a wide range of musical influences that is reflected in their original music and innovative arrangements of cover tunes. Whether it is straight-forward traditional or a new realm in acoustic music, the Hickory Project is gaining ground ?Linking Old and New in Acoustic Music.? More info: www.southwestpickers.org

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, June 10
Will McDonald of Santa Fe is calling with the Virginia Creepers (see above) playing again! 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

Second Sunday Dance, June 11
This will be the last 2nd Sunday dance until fall. If you want this series to continue, please come on June 11 and voice your support with your feet!! We did some great English dances at Folkmadness camp last weekend. Let’s keep the momentum going! Noralyn Parsons, Linda Starr & Merri Rudd will call elegant English country and zesty contra dances; music by One Good Turn (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle, Peter Wegman on guitar, Graham Daily on fiddle, and Lou Blackwell on bass). 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Dance Studio in Albuquerque at 4217 San Mateo NE, 1 block south of Montgomery on the west side of the San Mateo between Auto Zone and Bank of the West (across from Grandy’s). Park directly behind the studio on west side in gated area or along San Mateo to avoid vehicle break-ins. Do not park behind Auto Zone. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Clean dance shoes and tennis shoes OK. $6 admission.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, June 13
Join the Megaband on Tuesday, June 13, at the Blue Dragon, 1517 Girard NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Albuquerque House Concert, Tuesday, June 13
Richard Smith and Aaron Till, 7:30
1000 Parkland Circle SE, Albuquerque (not sure if it’s full)
266-6928 or 858-3463
http://www.richardsmithmusic.com/richard.html
“He can play anything I know, only better.” – Chet Atkins
?If you like my playing, you should hear Richard Smith.? – Tommy Emmanuel
Sample Recordings:

Albuquerque Folk Festival, Saturday, June 17!!
Finally, it’s time for the all-day folk blow-out on Saturday, June 17, at the Fairgrounds in Albuquerque. The Folk Festival schedule is now out and about. A copy was included in the latest FOLKMADS newsletter (look on the back side for DOZENS of workshops), plus schedule info is posted at the web site: www.abqfolkfest.org/schedule.htm Performers include Round Mountain; Syd Masters & the Swing Riders; Sandia Hots; Black Eagle; Steve Smith and Hard Road; Ronstadt, Ramirez Santa Cruz River Band; Jenny Vincent Trio. Contra dance at the Fairgrounds that night from 7:30-11 p.m., Kris Jensen calling, Megaband playing, at the Dance Building. Full info at www.abqfolkfest.org

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, June 17
7:30 p.m., Caller Jim Buechler and the Taos ContraBand. Call 505-776-1580 for location and more info.

FERINTOSH, a Celtic All-Star Trio in Concert in Santa Fe, Thursday, June 22
8:00 PM at The GiG (1808 Second Street-next to the Second Street Brewery)
for info: judykahn@earthlink.net or abby@abbynewton.com
Suggested contribution $15.
Ferintosh, featuring David Greenberg on fiddle, Abby Newton on cello, and Kim Robertson on Celtic harp, presents the vibrant folk music of Scotland and of Cape Breton where Scottish Highland music has continued in a living tradition since the 18th century. From poignant airs to high spirited strathspeys and reels, their dynamic arrangements unleash both the subtle beauty and rhythmic energy of this timeless music. www.ferintosh.com (They’ll be in Albuquerque too; see below.)

4th Saturday, Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, June 24
Open mike for callers, SF Community Band playing, 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

FERINTOSH, a Celtic All-Star Trio in Concert in Albuquerque, Saturday, June 24
ALBUQUERQUE NM 7:30 PM (read about the band above at June 22 entry)
HOUSE CONCERT (At home of JoMargaret & John Farris), $15 suggested donation. For reservations and directions: Linda 505-255-7089 dvik@comcast.net

Los Alamos Contra Dance, Saturday, June 24
There will be a contra dance in Los Alamos on Saturday, June 24th at the Unitarian Church. Roaring Jelly will be playing, Alan Wadlinger calling. The dance will begin at 7:00 p.m. (instruction), with full-scale dancing at 7:30. The Unitarian Church is at 1738 N. Sage St. (near the corner of 15th and Canyon). Contact Gordon Keating, 505-662-5972, keating@cybermesa.com for more info.

Albuquerque House Concert, Sunday, June 25
Albuquerque Baroque Players (ABP). Period instrument quartet ABP features Linda Vik on baroque violin, Mary Bruesch on Viola da Gamba, Susan Patrick on Harpsichord and Mary Ann Shore on Baroque winds. FREE CONCERT, Sunday June 25 at Albuquerque, NM 3:00 PM, Unitarian Church (Corner of Carlisle and Montgomery), for info: Linda 505-255-7089 or email dvik@comcast.net

Wildlife West Music Festival, Sunday, June 25
Sunday, June 25, 1 p.m. until 9 p.m. Concerts and workshops with Shawn Camp, Cadillac Sky, Elliott’s Ramblers and Jerusalem Ridge. Get down and boogey while playing hot tunes in Edgewood, New Mexico. This one includes a mandolin contest with a mandolin awarded courtesy of Encore Music. $15 at the gate, children under 12 free. More info at: www.wildlifewest.org

Albuquerque Bluegrass Concert, Wednesday, June 28
LOST HIGHWAY IN CONCERT JUNE 28TH, 7 PM AT COVENANT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 9315 Candelaria NE. Albuquerque, NM
Lost Highway is built around the smooth lead singing and rhythm guitar of Ken Orrick. His warm, soulful voice and his fine original songs, written in the best traditional style, define the Lost Highway sound. Eric Uglum, Dick Brown, Mike Tatar, Joe Ash and Ken Orrick, the members of Lost Highway, are united in their love and respect for traditional bluegrass. With their unforgettable trio harmonies, amazing instrumental prowess and relaxed, friendly stage manner, they are sure to be a hit at any festival or concert stage. Cost – $10 for SWP Members, $12 for non-members, http://www.losthighwaybluegrass.com/

This and That
Folkmadness Photos on Web: Shockingly, there were extra men at camp, so the girls certainly had a good time. Plus we were in a brand new dining hall. I posted a few photos from Folkmadness Music and Dance Camp over Memorial Day at http://www.flickr.com/photos/merridancing/tags/folkmadness2006/ Apologies if I misidentified anyone; let me know corrections. Also, if you do NOT want your photo on the web, let me know, and I’ll take it down.

I haven’t had a chance to blog about it yet, but hope to soon… Those of you who were there know that I got to perform FOLK WEDDING #8! And I heard a rumor that FOLK WEDDING #9 has already happened (I won’t say who; I’ll let them tell their own news).

Sample photo from camp:

Folkmadness Thrift Store Prom, 5/28/06 Photo by Merri Rudd (c) 2006

Merri’s MayMadness 2006 Report: I survived my weekend gig with Seth Tepfer, Hotpoint String Band and the Privy Tippers in Prescott, AZ May 19-21, 2006. I posted a blog entry at: http://merridancing.com/wp/category/report-from-the-road/ and photos at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/merridancing/sets/72057594143467958/

Looking Ahead: YES! There is a dance in Albuquerque on July 1, despite the holiday. Merri Rudd will call with the Five-Dog String Band, Albuq. Square Dance Center, 8-11 p.m.

Mark your calendars for Globalquerque! Saturday and Sunday, September 23 & 24: ?Globalquerque! – at the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Early Bird tickets at http://www.globalquerque.com/ticketspecial.html

That’s all for now. Enjoy the many June music and dance activities!

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque NM
www.merridancing.com

Hi, Folkies,

This will be my only May folk enews. HOWEVER, I may post updates during the month without notice, so you die-hard blog-lovers can check back on occasion throughout May.

Corrales Sing, Friday, May 5
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Plants, Flowers, and Trees are the May theme.
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, May 6
Merri Rudd hosts an open mike with Lewis Land and Linda Starr calling and Adobe Brothers (Bruce Thomson on fiddle, Wayne Shrubsall on banjo, Elliott Rogers on guitar, Tim DeYoung on mandolin, Janice Ryals-Rogers on bass) playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Note Different Location Tonight Only! Dance Studio in Albuquerque at 4217 San Mateo NE, 1 block south of Montgomery on the west side of the San Mateo between Auto Zone and Bank of the West (across from Grandy’s). Park directly behind the studio on west side in gated area or along San Mateo to avoid vehicle break-ins. Do not park behind Auto Zone. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Clean dance shoes and tennis shoes OK. $5 members, $6 others.

Durango, Colorado Contra Dance, May 6
Albuquerque’s own Sandia Hots will play for the dance, and Wendy Graham from Durango will call. Saturday May 6th, Needham Elementary – 2425 West 3rd Ave., (Enter on the East side). Beginner instruction at 7:00 and dancing from 7:30 to 10:30. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary, and dancers of all abilities are welcome. Admission for this special dance is $10. For further information, call 970-903-9402.

Albuquerque Concert, Sunday, May 7
PERLA BATALLA
El Rey Theatre, 7:30 pm, 21 and over
No Smoking
Tickets: $20 advance, $25 door
Available at abqmusic.com, Bookworks and Natural Sound.
Neal is thrilled to bring the National Hispanic Cultural Center on board as a partner for the PERLA BATALLA show at the El Rey. Perla was the first artist in their wildly popular Latin Divas series, so it only seems fitting that she also be the first artist in the Latin Divas on the Road outreach program. Perla got her start as a back-up singer for kd lang and Leonard Cohen before she started making beautiful recordings of her own that highlight her Mixteca heritage. Perla’s got a new CD out entitled “What I Did On My Summer Vacation By Perla Batalla” which highlights the music she discovered on a recent trip to Argentina to meet her mother’s family. It’s beautiful music that perfectly highlights Perla’s stunning voice and charming presence.

Bluegrass Concert, Albuquerque, Thursday, May 11
Southwest pickers is pleased to announce that The Lost & Found Bluegrass band will perform on THURSDAY MAY 11 at 7:30 PM at the Covenant Presbyterian Church, 9315 Candelaria Ave. NE. ONE NIGHT ONLY. Admission is ONLY $10 for SWP members and $12 for non-members. The Lost & Found was founded in 1973 by original members Allen Mills, Dempsey Young, Gene Parker & Roger Handy. Allen and the fellow band members were asked to do a local cable TV show. Before that the band had not played anywhere too far from their own basement. To meet that deadline they decided to use the name The Lost & Found until they could think of a better one. That was in 1973, and now the name The Lost & Found is one of the most respected and recognized names in bluegrass music.
For more information on The Lost & Found, go to: http://www.lostandfoundbluegrass.com or http://www.southwestpickers.com

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, May 12
Julie writes that their dance is May 12, the SECOND Friday, so they can go to Prescott’s Maymadness camp May 19-21 with me!!! (That would be Lonnie, Julie, Judy F, Cynthia W., aka dance gypsies, following Merri). Current location is San Andres High School, 2355 Avenida De Mesilla, Las Cruces (main highway through Mesilla and 2 blocks east of plaza). Three callers, Lewis, Chole and Lonnie and SNMMDS House Band , which numbered 8 last dance. >No dances in June or July. Following dance is third Friday, August 18. Info: 505-522-1691.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, May 13
Jim Buechler of Taos is calling with Beat La Feet playing. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

Second Sunday Dance, Mother's Day, May 14
Merri Rudd, with a little help from Noralyn Parsons, will call elegant English country and zesty contra dances; music by One Good Turn (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle, Peter Wegman on guitar, Graham Daily on fiddle, and Lou Blackwell on bass). 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Dance Studio in Albuquerque at 4217 San Mateo NE, 1 block south of Montgomery on the west side of the San Mateo between Auto Zone and Bank of the West (across from Grandy’s). Park directly behind the studio on west side in gated area or along San Mateo to avoid vehicle break-ins. Do not park behind Auto Zone. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Clean dance shoes and tennis shoes OK. $6 admission.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, May 16
Join the Megaband on Tuesday, May 16, at the Blue Dragon, 1517 Girard NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Taos Concert, Tuesday, May 16
ZoukFest Presents Mandolin Duo Mike Compton & David Long in Concert at RANE Gallery on Tuesday, May 16th, at 7pm. Mike Compton, the mandolinist on the soundtrack of the Cohen Brothers film “O Brother Where Art Thou?”, and who appeared in the associated performance film “Down from the Mountain,” will appear with his duo partner David Long in a special Tuesday evening concert at RANE Gallery, 214 Ledoux Street in Taos, at 7pm on Tuesday, May 16th. The late, great John Hartford said that Mike Compton knows more about Bill Monroe mandolin style than the Father of Bluegrass himself! Check out Mike’s website: http://www.mikecompton.net/

Santa Fe Concert, Friday, May 19
MICHAEL COMBS plays at UPPER CRUST PIZZA
(corner of De Vargas and Old Santa Fe Trail)
FRIDAY, MAY 19, 6-9p.m., no cover
Traditional Acoustic Songs of the West, South & Norte on the Button Accordion, Fiddle and 6- and 12-string guitar. 438-6636.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, May 20
Donna Howell is calling and Megaband is playing, and it may be someone’s birthday! 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Back to the… Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others.

NO 4th Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, May 27!!!
Why not??? Cuz we’ll all be at the FolkMADness Music and Dance Camp in Socorro from May 26-29. Visit www.folkmads.org for details.

Albuquerque House Concert, Monday, May 29
Notorious in concert in Albuquerque
Eden MacAdam-Somer: fiddle, vocals
Larry Unger: guitar, banjo
May 29, 2006 7:00 PM, Home of Martina Mesmer
Donations $12 at the door
To reserve a seat, please contact 505.237.1033/505.620.0211 or martina776@comcast.net
Spend an evening with Notorious duo, Eden MacAdam-Somer and Larry Unger, as they bring FolkMADness to a close with a concert showcasing their new CD. With Eden on fiddle and sweet vocals and Larry on guitar and banjo, this band presents everything from traditional American and Celtic fiddle tunes to jazz, blues, and the group?s original compositions. Bring your families, neighbors, and friends to see how many ways Notorious can metamorphosize 64 beats! For information on Notorious visit www.larryunger.net or www.fiddlegarden.net

This and That
Albuquerque Folk Festival!! It’s almost time for the all-day folk blow-out on Saturday, June 17, at the Fairgrounds in Albuquerque. If anyone has instruments, cases, tuners etc that they want to sell, they can sell them at the ABQ Folk Festival, which will have a consignment booth there. ABQ Folk Fest will take 15 % of the sale leaving 85 % to the consignee. Gretchen is the lead on the consignment booth. The more instruments, the better the booth. To sell instruments, contact Gretchen at 266-6928 or gcnewma@sandia.gov. Also, the Folk Festival schedule is now out and about. A copy was included in the latest FOLKMADS newsletter (look on the back side for DOZENS of workshops), plus schedule info is posted at the web site: http://www.abqfolkfest.org/schedule.htm

Fiddler Tim & Pacific Crest Trail I had blogged about how we could follow Hey!’s fiddler Tim Shaffer on his 2000+ mile journey up the Pacific Crest Trail. But after 7 days and 110 miles, he’s back in Albuquerque. He’ll post the gory details at his blog at http://www.trailjournals.com/TimS/ soon.

Two Cats Need Foster and/or Permanent Homes: Boo Hoo, Robin Brown, Marc Leonard, and their son Brendan are moving to the rainy Northwest. They have two cats that need separate homes. One is 11 years old. The other is 14. The 14-year old used to be a good mouser when there were mice around; she needs to be in a home without other cats or dogs. Robin & Marc will be in Santa Fe from April 24 to June 15. If the people taking the cats want, Robin & Marc can take them back after they resettle. If you can help them out, e-mail Robin at: Robin440 @ earthlink. net (take the extra spaces out if you send Robin email, she hates spam, hence the precautions!)

Rodney Miller & Airdance in Colorado: Airdance is coming to Colorado!
June 1 – House Concert in Erie, CO
June 2 – Dance in Denver, CO – 8pm
June 3 – Dance in Fort Collins, CO – 8pm
June 4 – Dance in Boulder, CO -2 pm
Details at www.cfootmad.org or www.fotd.org. Those of you who are going to Maymadness in Arizona, then Folkmadness Camp in Socorro, can make it “three for three” dance weekends in a row! Let me know how that goes…

That’s all for now. Enjoy the many May music and dance activities!

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque NM
www.merridancing.com

Greetings, Folkies,

First, the New Mexico Folk Music and Dance Society (FOLKMADS) retreat planned for April 29 has been postponed. Planning “The Future of Folkmads” requires many of you to participate and brainstorm. So please contact FOLKMADS President Scott Mathis at mandowork@aol.com and let him know what day and time of year you can attend a retreat. Ideas of locations conducive to small discussion groups, a large discussion group, music jamming, dancing, and eating are welcome.

Second, we Albuquerque women want to have a workshop for women “How to Dance the Man’s Part.” We’ve had so many extra women at dances lately that we’ve decided to take matters into our own hands. If you’re interested in such a workshop, contact Linda Starr at lstarr@hubwest.com, and she’ll start a list of who to contact for the workshop, which will probably be held this fall.

Third, there are 24 Albuquerque dances a year. We need “dance hosts” to volunteer to host one or more dances a year. Hosting would involve welcoming newcomers, providing refreshments (reimbursement provided by FOLKMADS if receipts submitted), arranging for cashbox sitters, setting up and cleaning the hall, etc. We can’t do these dances without some help. So if you can host one or more dances a year, please contact Linda and Bob at lstarr@hubwest.com. Thanks!

Fun Folk Festival Fundraiser, Tuesday, April 18
Don’t forget the Albuquerque Folk Festival and Il Vicino have teamed up to bring families together for an all day event of great food and fun. Tuesday April 18th; order take-out, come in for lunch or dinner or both at Il Vicino and a portion of the proceeds will be donated directly to the AFF organization. This is a great opportunity for AFF to get some much needed funds and enjoy good food with good friends. 3403 Central NE in Nob Hill 505-266-7855. Il Vicino has great, wood-fired pizza, so plan to eat there that night. And mark your calendars for June 17, 2006 for the Folk Festival. Visit http://www.abqfolkfest.org/ for details.

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, April 21
The FOLKMADS paper calendar is incorrect. This “Swing into Spring” dance will be on Friday, April 21, not Friday, April 28. Chole and Lewis will be teaching & calling. SNMMDS House Band playing. They’re touting a COOL spring color theme, like those Easter eggs you used to color as a kid. Location: Mesilla Park Recreation Center, 304 W. Bell Avenue, Las Cruces NM. Info: 505-522-1691 or 505-521-7586.

Santa Fe Concert, Friday, April 21
MICHAEL COMBS plays at UPPER CRUST PIZZA
(corner of De Vargas and Old Santa Fe Trail)
APRIL 21, 2006, Friday, 6-9p.m.
no cover
Traditional Acoustic Songs of the West, South & Norte on the Button Accordion, Fiddle and 6- and 12-string guitar. 438-6636

4th Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, April 22 (Earth Day!)
Camp Benefit Dance in Santa Fe, 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd., Open mike for callers and SF Community Band playing. $6 members, $7 others ($1 higher price tonight only). Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

4th Sunday Contra Dance, Albuq., April 23
Dance CANCELLED! Artie Walsh is taking a break from his dance series until further notice.

Albuquerque House Concert, April 28, Friday
LISA McCORMICK
Friday, April 28, 7:30 pm
$12 suggested donation
For reservations, contact Jeff at abqmusic@att.net or use the on-line reservations system at www.abqmusic.com/houseconcerts.html
Lisa hails from Vermont and has a lush, sultry voice and a strong sense of style. Her last album “Mystery Girl” takes a jazzy turn, with some lovely Latin touches as well. The music harks back to kd lang at her slinkiest, mixed with Suzanne Vega’s spark and wordplay and classic Joao Gilberto swing. Mostly in English, but a few songs in Spanish provide a nice change of pace (and a preview for Perla Batalla on May 7!). You can hear short sound clips at www.lisamccormick.com

Santa Fe English Country Dance, April 29
Dance CANCELLED! Due to lack of hall, full band and caller, this dance will not take place. But, then, neither will the FOLKMADS retreat originally planned for this date. So….the message from the universe for this day is: turn off your computer, mute your TV, go outside, enjoy the sunshine and dance within. And maybe ponder the future of FOLKMADS while you’re out and about.

This & That
Camp Approaches: Remember that www.folkmads.org has calendars and info on FOLKMADS events. FolkMadness Camp registration for Memorial Day weekend is open! Don’t miss the opportunity to refine your contra, English country and waltz skills with some of the nation’s finest dance musicians and leaders.

Elliott’s New Website: Our own Elliott Rogers (of Elliott and the Ramblers, plus Adobe Brothers fame) has a new web site and should have music downloads soon as well as more news and dates. It looks like fun at http://myelliottsramblers.com.

Folk Music All Day and Night: Tom and Deb report there is a website that streams folk music 24/7. It is called Folk Alley www.folkalley.com and it’s free! You have to register on the website . Deb says they are very responsible and don’t give your email address to anyone else. She registered several months ago with no ill effects. They also list folk festivals and folk music organizations on their website.

Prague anyone? David Millstone, who will be one of our guest callers at Folkmadness Camp next month, asked if anyone from New Mexico might be interested in a ten-day dance trip to
Prague and beyond this coming October? The website has full details
http://www.dvorana.cz/dance/

Let me know of events to list for May by April 26. Beware, I will only do one blog posting in May!

Thanks,

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Howdy, Folkies,

We made it through high heating bills, and the daffodils, forsythia and hyacinths are abloom in most parts of Albuqueque. If you read (past tense) the 2nd March Enews early, scroll down and check out the very fine new photo of the yellow grosbeak taken by a birder who visited NM from CA. I added it after I had let everyone know I’d posted the Enews. Last sighting of him was March 9, so maybe he’s in one of your yards now.

Susannah, a recent dancer transplant to Albuquerque, needs rides to dances. Can you help her? Susannah is working as an intern at Los Poblanos Organics. She is living on Griegos Rd, near Rio Grande NW in Albuquerque. If anyone who would be coming to the dances from that neighborhood and would be willing to give her a ride, please let her know. She only has a cell phone 240-418-4134, which is long distance. E-mail is hard for her to check – she has to go to the library, so the cell phone is better.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, April 1
Kris Jensen is calling and Hey! (Linda Vik and Jane Phillips on fiddle, Chris Carlson on fiddle and banjo, Tim Shaffer on fiddle and guitar) is playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others.

Silver City Dance, Saturday, April 1
The Silver Heels Community Dance Band will be hosting quarterly dances at the THE U.U.FELLOWSHIP HALL 3845 N. SWAN, SILVER CITY, N.M. The first one will take place on Saturday, April 1, 7:30-10:30. Celebrating Dancing Together, Music by the Silver Heels Community Dance Band (coached by Ken and Jeanie of Bayou Seco fame), the Fiddling Friends and Fiddle Club Children Welcome! VIRGINIA REEL, LA BASTRANGE, WALTZES and 2 STEPS, POLKAS AND RANCHERAS, THE BROOM DANCE, THE HANDKERCHIEF DANCE, THE CHOTIS, AND LOTS MORE … ADMISSION BY DONATIONS. For more info call 505-534-0298 or send email to WENTZSIMMONS@ZIANET.COM or BAYOUSECO@AOL.COM.

Solas Concert in Santa Fe, Wed., April 5
Southwest Roots Music & AMP Concerts are proud to present Celtic sensations *SOLAS*
Wednesday, April 5, 2006 at 7:30 pm
St. Francis Auditorium at the Museum of Fine Arts
107 W. Palace Ave., Santa Fe
$25 advance. $29 door. $20 for Members. General Admission.
*Tickets at Lensic Box Office **505-988-1234 * www.lensic.com

Since its birth in 1996, Solas has been loudly proclaimed the most popular, influential, and exciting Celtic band ever to emerge from the United States–the first truly great Irish-American band. The Philadelphia Inquirer said they make mind-blowing Irish folk music, maybe the world’s best. The New York Times praised their unbridled vitality. And the Austin American-Statesman called them the standard by which contemporary Celtic groups are judged. The band interprets a wide range of original, traditional and contemporary material in surprising ways. Songs by contemporary artists–Dylan, Waits, Drake–are given a Celtic tinge, making explicit their connections with the deep, ultimately Celtic roots of American music. The Solas sound today is anchored by founders fiddler Winifred Horan and Seamus Egan, who plays flute, tenor banjo, mandolin, whistle, guitar and bodhran. They are two of the most respected?and imitated?musicians anywhere in acoustic music. Mick McAuley from Kilkenny plays accordion and concertina; Eamon McElholm from Tyrone plays guitar and keyboards. Deirdre Scanlan is the band’s latest vocal discovery, gorgeously filling the role carved out by founding vocalist Karan Casey.

Solas in Albuquerque, Thursday, April 6
AMP Concerts presents Solas at the Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave., NE (Albuquerque)
7:30 PM
Visit www.abqmusic.com for details.
Solas has been acclaimed as “the most exciting Irish traditional group in the world” by the Boston Herald. They interpret a wide range of material in surprising ways; songs by contemporary artists are given a Celtic tinge, making explicit their connections with the deep, ultimately Celtic roots of American music. Solas weaves together a fascinating body of material including songs by Bob Dylan (the obscure gem “Dignity”), Tom Waits, Nick Drake and Jesse Colin Young of The Youngbloods, as well as traditionally-rooted original compositions.

Corrales Sing, Friday, April 7
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Spring/Flowers/Plants/Trees are the April theme.
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.)

Solas in Socorro, Friday, April 7
As part of their Spring 2006 tour, Solas will appear in concert at New Mexico Tech?s Macey Center at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 7, in a Performing Arts Series (PAS) event. Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for seniors and $12 for youth and may be bought at the door or in advance at the New Mexico Tech Bookstore, New Mexico Tech Cashier’s Window (Brown Hall), Brownbilt Western Wear, Burrito Tyme Walk-In, and Video Shack. Tickets also may be purchased from Performing Arts Series Office at pas@admin.nmt.edu or 505-835-5688. New Mexico Tech students should pick up their free ticket by showing their ID at the New Mexico Tech Bookstore.

Durango, Colorado Contra Dance, April 7
A special Contra Dance, in conjunction with the Durango Bluegrass Meltdown, will be held Friday April 7th. The Denver band Skean Dubh will be playing for the dance, and Peg Hesley from Phoenix will be the caller. The dance will be at the VFW Hall, 1550 Main Avenue, with beginner instruction at 7:00 and dancing from 7:30 to 10:30. All dances are taught and called. No partner is necessary, and dancers of all abilities are welcome. Admission for this special dance is $10. For further information, call 970-259-6820.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, April 8
One hot dance is planned in Santa Fe, Saturday, April 8. Merri Rudd is calling, Hands Five (Bruce Thomson on fiddle, Erika Gerety on bass, Peter Esherick on hammer dulcimer, John Brinduse on guitar, Gary Blank on percussion) are playing. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

Second Sunday Dance, April 9
William DeRagon will call elegant English country and zesty contra dances; music by Gemma DeRagon and friends; 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Dance Studio in Albuquerque at 4217 San Mateo NE, 1 block south of Montgomery on the west side of the San Mateo between Auto Zone and Bank of the West (across from Grandy’s). Park directly behind the studio on west side in gated area or along San Mateo to avoid vehicle break-ins. Do not park behind Auto Zone. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Clean dance shoes and tennis shoes OK. $6 admission. In honor of daffodil season, we may “spring” a few surprises on you all.

Albuquerque Dance Weekend, April 7-9
A WEEKEND FULL OF FUN TO BENEFIT THE NATIONAL MS SOCIETY
WORKSHOPS **DANCES ** ENTERTAINMENT
April 7-9, Albuquerque, NM
OUT-of-STATE GUEST INSTRUCTORS INCLUDE MICHAEL & DAWNE KIEHM & JEFF & MARY HILL
Patti Miller is hosting her 7th Annual Workshop Weekend with the stars in Albuquerque, NM, April 7-9. Dancers from all across the country attend this annual event. Dances and workshops Friday through Sunday at various locations. Click on: www.becauseyoucan.us to print a tegistration form and for all the details. If you cannot attend the DBYC workshop weekend but would like to contribute to the MS Fundraiser, please write a check to Patti Miller (write MS Fundraiser on the memo line) and send it to: Dance! Because You Can, P.O. Box 90155 ABQ, NM 87199. FOR MORE INFORMATION on DBYC or the following or to subscribe to NM Local Dance e-newsletter, please contact Susan Kellogg at glkello@nmia.com or call 505-299-3737.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, April 11
Join the Megaband on Tuesday, April 11, at the Blue Dragon, 1517 Girard NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Bring your sweeties, and maybe they’ll play some rowdy but romantic old-time tunes. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, April 15
Wendy Graham, the energetic cutie from Durango, is calling and Megaband is playing this CAMP BENEFIT DANCE to raise money for scholarships. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $6 members, $7 others ($1 higher fee tonight only).

Fun Folk Festival Fundraiser, Tuesday, April 18
The Albuquerque Folk Festival and Il Vicino have teamed up to bring families together for an all day event of great food and fun. Tuesday April 18th; order take-out, come in for lunch or dinner or both at Il Vicino and a portion of the proceeds will be donated directly to the AFF organization. This is a great opportunity for AFF to get some much needed funds and enjoy good food with good friends. 3403 Central NE in Nob Hill 505-266-7855. Il Vicino has great, wood-fired pizza, so plan to eat there that night. And mark your calendars for June 17, 2006 for the Folk Festival. Visit http://www.abqfolkfest.org/ for details.

This & That
New Mexico’s FolkMadness Camp needs more men to sign up for this camp, May 26-29, 2006. Early registration deadline for NM Folkmadness is April 15, www.folkmad.org has info!

And Prescott, AZ’s MayMadness Weekend, May 19-21, 2006 needs more men to sign up, too. Callers Seth Tepfer and Merri Rudd. Bands Hotpoint String Band and the Privy Tippers. More info is at http://www.sharlot.org/madness/

For you guys who don’t know the secret to women’s hearts, we only want one thing: a guy who can dance!

If you have folk music and/or dance events for me to list for the 2nd half of April, let me know by April 15th. And don’t forget to file your income taxes by April 17.

Merri Rudd
www.merridancing.com

Hey, Folkies,

It’s been a roller-coaster few weeks with the tragic deaths from cancer of dance composer Gene Hubert, age 51 (see blog entry of March 8, 2006) and Gary Hughes, a Kansas fiddler, dance organizer, and fine dancer. Then we had a fiasco with the 2nd Sunday dance a few nights ago, when the Dance Studio folks did not show up to let us in. It turns out one of the owners was in the hospital, and they assure us they’ll be there for our dances in April, May and June. We caravanned down San Mateo to Lloyd Shaw (thanks, Donna Bauer, for helping us on short notice!) and held the dance acoustically. A small crowd, but the dancers seemed to have fun dancing to the fine tunes of Gary Papenhagen, Peter Wegman, Graham Daily and Lou Blackwell.

On a lighter note, some bird watcher posted a link to the yellow grosbeak entry on my blog on a New England rare bird site, and my blog got over 200 “hits” in one day!

Photo taken on March 11, 2006 by Matthew Matthiessen, Ukiah, CA, who visited the bird in Albuquerque, (c) 2006

And Trish Woodall is currently “dancing down the Nile” on a wooden boat with 50 others, Joseph Pimentel and Colin Hume calling contras and English country dances, Peter Barnes and Mary Lea of Bare Necessities fame playing. Pyramids by day, dancing by night; let’s hope Trish will post a report on FOLKMADS’ roadtrips.blog or with me.

Albuquerque St. Patrick's Day Concert
This Friday, March 17, at 7 P.M., The Bost Family will return to play. They were such a hit last year that they were immediately signed on to play at the big Enchanted Desert Festival. The kids are all a year older and another one has joined the family since we saw them last. The show is free but donations are encouraged to help them defray their cost of driving from Arizona. Covenant Cafe is located at 9315 Candelaria NE in Albuquerque, show starts at 7 pm. Refreshments will be available.

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, March 17
It’ll be the ‘wearin’ of the green’ in Las Cruces at the St. Patrick’s Day Contra Dance. There’ll be shamrocks & shades of green & traditional Irish Reels and dance. Get in the mood for a party — wear something green or funny. Lots of Irish tunes from our lads & lasses in our Southern N.M. Music & Dance House Band. Chole, Lonnie and Lewis will be teaching & calling. Lucky “Green” refreshments. Location: San Andres Learning Center, 2355 Avenida De Mesilla/Highway 28, Mesilla (2 blocks east of church and plaza). Info: 505-522-1691 or 505-521-7586.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, March 18
Marj Mullany is calling and Megaband is playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others. If you’re not at Popejoy Hall for Garrison Keillor and the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra that night, you might want to wear some green to go dancing. Here is Jim Boros’ cyber rendition of our Megaband:

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, March 18
This month they’ll again be dancing near the center of town — at the Community Dance Studio, aka the khecari dance theatre, at 1219 Gusdorf Road. That’s the 3rd Saturday, March 18, at 7 p.m. The Community Studio is located in the complex of buildings at the corner of the BY-pass East and Gusdorf Road. From the Visitor Center, take a right turn onto Gusdorf. Take the 4th left-hand entrance, just after the sign with the number 1219 written above the words “Phoenix Plaza” On the adobe wall behind and above will be the logo of the Taos Orthopedic Clinic. Drive out back, keeping the Clinic on your left. The studio entrance is at the end. They are asked, however, to REMOVE OUTDOOR SHOES upon entering. So bring soft-soled indoor shoes, or slippers, or dancing shoes if you have them. If you’ll be wearing socks (some will) you might bring somewhat heavier socks to give some support at least. Music by Taos Contraband, once again. Lausanne Allen, winter Resident Caller, in her next-to-last appearance before she returns to Vermont in May.

Albuquerque Concert, Monday, March 20
Bosque House Concert #85 with Brian Joseph with Brad Colerick
7:30 pm
$12 suggested minimum donation
Contact Jeff at abqmusic.com or make a reservation on-line at
www.abqmusic.com/houseconcerts.html
A warm and engaging performer, Brian carved a spot in everyone’s hearts with “We’re Gonna Laugh”, a song that still gets played on KBAC years later. He’s a master of story songs that create a strong sense of place and people. He’s also a fairly new father. He’ll show you a stack of family pictures in a heartbeat. His latest album “If I Never Sleep Again”, is all about his experiences with parenthood – leading up to it, living through it, and imagining what it brings for the future. It’s a universal theme handled in a very nice way that works for parents and non-parents alike. Brian’s travelling with Brad Colerick, who will be doing a short opening set and probably singing on a few of Brian’s songs.

Bayou Seco House Concert, Santa Fe, March 24
Fri. Mar 24 – Santa Fe – House Concert – Marilyn Ferrell’s house – 113 Monte Alto, El Dorado. Santa Fe 7:30 PM – for reservations call: 505-466-4469 or mamateq@cybermesa.com – Cajun Snacks at Break – $15.00 or sliding scale.

Bayou Seco Concert, Corrales, Sat., March 25
Corrales Library – Children and adults concert – 10:30 AM , Corrales NM

4th Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, March 25 with Music Workshop First!
There will be a Bayou Seco Fiddle Workshop -Cajun/New Mexican/Tohono O’Odham styles before the dance. 3-5:30 PM in Santa Fe at 810 1/2 W. Manhatten (Lisa Bertelli’s house). $25.00 includes disc and transcriptions. bayouseco@aol.com for reservations. Then go to the Contra Dance in Santa Fe, 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd., Wendy Graham from Durango calling and Bayou Seco (Ken Keppeler on fiddle and accordian, Jeanie McLerie on fiddle and accordion, Ted Seeley on guitar and bass) playing. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

Albuquerque Concert, Saturday, March 25
An AMP Concert, Mountain Music of Kyrgyzstan featuring
The Tengir-Too Ensemble
KiMo Theater, 5th & Central (downtown)
8:00 pm – Concert
7:00 pm – video and lecture
$20 & $25, reserved seating
Tickets at the KiMo Box Office and TicketMaster
A small number of tickets available at abqmusic.com and concerts as well.
A very special opportunity to see music rarely heard in the United States, let alone in Albuquerque. They are only playing at four venues around the country. The first of their two shows at the Smithsonian is already sold out. This 7-piece ensemble’s new CD is the first in a 10-volume set being released by Smithsonian Folkways entitled The Music of Central Asia. It’s a stunning package with a 30-page booklet and a DVD. The music is worthy of the treatment. The Kyrgyz people were primarily nomads, so playing in large groups is a new concept for them. The group tends to break into smaller ensembles to perform different styles of music, ranging from battling Jew’s harps to wild playing on a handmade lute. There are male and female vocalists, and an epic storyteller. The show is both visually and aurally rich and intriguing, transcending language to capture the spirit of the people. Pre-concert, we will show a DVD on the band and their homeland and have a short discussion with Professor Ted Levin from Dartmouth. Ted is the executive producer of the Smithsonian series, helped Yo-Yo Ma create the Silk Road Project, and has spent decades immersed in the music of the region.

4th Sunday Contra Dance, Albuq., March 26
Artie Walsh and friends calling, One Good Turn (Gary Papenhagen and Graham Daily on fiddle, Peter Wegman on guitar, and Lou Blackwell on bass) playing. 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, 5506 Coal SE (2 blocks south of Central, 1.5 blocks east of San Mateo). $5 all. Call Artie for more info: 332-3737.

Albuquerque Concert, Sunday, March 26
An evening of music with David Roth, 7 p.m., Christ Unity Church, 9800 Candelaria Rd. NE, $10, advance, $12, door. Call 241-9627 for more info and tickets.

Taos Concert, Sunday, March 26
ZoukFest Presents! Laura Kemp & Steve Smith
Roots and Contemporary Americana Music with Sizzling Hot Mandolin and Gorgeous Vocals
Sunday, March 26th, 2006
at RANE Gallery, 214 Ledoux Street, Taos, New Mexico
7pm, tickets are $12 at the door 1/2 hour before the show.
Laura Kemp and Steve Smith met in 2002 when Laura invited Steve to play mandolin parts on her CD, May. Since then they have played shows together in Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, Texas and in Steve?s home state, New Mexico, featuring original and traditional vocal music in a duo format. Steve and Laura accompany each other on mandolin, guitar, and with vocal harmonies and both artists will also perform solo selections during the evening. With the release of her fifth studio album, May, Laura Kemp has gained a reputation as one of the finest performers and songwriters on the west coast. She has been a fixture on the Eugene, OR folk scene since 1990, her dynamic performing style, refined confidence and uncompromising frankness on stage, and her unique brand of acoustic poetry earning her comparisons to Bob Dylan and Nanci Griffith, as well as consistently winning her ?Best Female Musician? honors in the Eugene Weekly readers? poll.

Steve Smith has been performing mandolin, guitar, and vocals for over 25 years in about as many different types of musical situations as one can imagine, from hard-driving traditional Bluegrass to New Acoustic, Celtic, Jazz ensembles, Old-Time, and chamber music. In 2005 Steve released the latest CD, meet Me By The River with his retro/old-time Bluegrass group Steve Smith and Hard Road. In 2004, he released his fourth solo CD, a collection of original and traditional tunes performed on voice, mandolin, guitar, mandola, mandocello, banjo, bass and percussion in solo, duo, trio and quartet settings. The musicians include Jim Hurst, Missy Raines, Wayne Shrubsall, Jane Horton, Robin Russell, Sally Barnes, George Rhee, Bob Hull, Fred Bugbee and Bruce Johnson and his quintet Steve Smith and Hard Road. For more information contact: Roger Landes at 505.751.3512 or info@zoukfest.com, http://zoukfest.com

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, April 1
I have a feeling this dance is gonna sneak up on us. Kris Jensen is calling and Hey! (Linda Vik and Jane Phillips on fiddle, Chris Carlson on fiddle and banjo, Tim Shaffer on fiddle and guitar) is playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others.

This & That
Remember that www.folkmads.org has calendars and info on FOLKMADS events. FolkMadness Camp registration for Memorial Day weekend is open! Don’t miss the opportunity to refine your contra, English country and waltz skills with some of the nation’s finest dance musicians and leaders.

Let me know of events to list for April by March 25.

Thanks,

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Hello, Folkies,

Those of you who read my full blog may already know about the birdwatching excitement in Albuquerque (“THE Bird Find of a Lifetime, posted 2/22/2006). If you’re reading the full blog right now, just scroll down past this post to the one on 2/22/06. If not and you’re interested in birding history, you can visit the full blog at www.merridancing.com/wp and scroll down past this post to the one on 2/22/06.

Photo by Mark Justice Hinton, (c) 2006

But here is something you probably don’t know and will want to know: Lunasa, a fantastic Irish band, will play at the Kimo in Albuquerque on October 4, 2006. On March 15, tickets go on sale to the general public. Visit www.abqmusic.com for more info.

Santa Fe Concert, March 2
Thursday, March 2nd, 8PM
Radio Free Bassanda! Music from the Mediterranean, Near East and Balkans
GiG Performance Space – 1808 2nd Street, Santa Fe
Suggested donation $10-$15
Radio Free Bassanda! was founded by Roger Landes, Mason Brown and Chipper Thompson out of a shared interest in the various modal musics from around the Mediterranean, the Middle & Near East, and the Balkans. Modal music is one of the oldest types of music, while remaining the dominant musical language in many parts of the world. Modal musics emphasize melody and rhythm rather than harmony and they invariably contain a great deal of improvisation and spontaneous invention. 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! http://gigsantafe.com

Santa Fe Concert, Friday, March 3
Miguel Combs is playing at Upper Crust Pizza (yummy whole-wheat crust!) Fri, March 3, 6-9 p.m. He’ll probably have mystery guests too. It’s at the corner of De Vargas & Old Santa Fe Trail, (OSFT), info: 438-6636. Also, Miguel reports that Gary Schiffmiller, Michael Combs, Michael’s son Hickory, and others have formed the Santa Fe Buskers Alliance- santafebuskers@yahoo.com . At their 2nd meeting, the ACLU sent two fabulous lawyers from Albuquerque, who’ve decided to take their case. Street musicians ( buskers) have been on the receiving end of illegal yet effective harrasment by police for ove 20 years in Santa Fe, and that may be about to change. The Journal is supposed to run a story on this soon, watch for it. On Sundays, the merry buskers meet at 2 p.m. at San Francisco St. & Burro Alley and raise a joyous noise, eliciting smiles and coinage from passers-by. If you’d like their newsletters, e-mail them.

Corrales Sing, Friday, March 3
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. Sea Songs and Fish are the March theme.
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, March 4
A special treat with Lausanne Allen calling the contra dance to Bayou Seco’s tunes (Ken Keppeler on fiddle and accordian, Jeanie McLerie on fiddle and accordion, Scott Mathis on mandolin and bass, Linda Askew on guitar!!!). 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others. Should be a rollickin’ good time!

Dance Twice in Albuquerque on March 4
Square dancing for fun on Saturday before the contra dance! You don’t need to know anything about square dancing to have a great time. Jerry Jestin, known all over the square dancing world for his fresh and creative choreography, will call be calling from 1:30 – 3:30 at the Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE. All ages are welcome. $5/adults, $2/kids.

Durango, Colorado Contra Dance, March 4
Saturday evening March 4th, the monthly Contra Dance will be held at the VFW Hall, 1515 Main Avenue. 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 abilities are welcome. Admission is $7. Accomplished local caller Paul Bendt will call the dance, with live music provided by the extensive Kitchen Jam Band. These smoke-and alcohol-free dances are a project of the Durango Arts Center. For further information, call 259-6820.

Bayou Seco in Concert, Taos, Sunday, March 5
Cross-cultural Music of the Southwest, Sunday, March 5th, 2006, 6:30-9:30pm
In the Adobe Bar of the Taos Inn
125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte
Ken Keppeler and Jeanie McLerie play cross-cultural music of the southwest that they have learned first hand from elder musicians in the communities where they have lived. Cajun, early Chicken Scratch (waila) from the Tohono O?odham, northern New Mexican, Norte?o and Zydeco styles are artfully blended into a uniquely exotic sound that entwines the roots of these musics. Ken (diatonic 1 and 3 row accordions, fiddle, harmonica, fretless banjo and vocals) and Jeanie (5 string violin, guitar and gutsy lead vocals in French, Spanish and English) met in Eunice, Louisiana 28 years ago, and currently live in Silver City, New Mexico. Their special brand of Southwestern ?Chilegumbo? ? Cajun two-steps, waltzes, polkas and ranchers, chotis?s, meringues and huapangos, and, perhaps a broom dance, is cross-cultural, multi-lingual, extremely participatory, and transcends labels and pigeonholes. It is true COMMUNITY music.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, March 11
Check out the Contra Dance in Santa Fe, Saturday, March 11. Chris Kelly of Santa Fe is calling, Music in the Glen (Will McDonald on fiddle and others I don’t know about) are playing. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

Second Sunday Dance, March 12
Merri Rudd will call elegant English country and zesty contra dances; music by One Good Turn (Gary Papenhagen on fiddle, Lou Blackwell on bass, Peter Wegman on guitar, young Graham on fiddle); 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Dance Studio in Albuquerque at 4217 San Mateo NE, 1 block south of Montgomery on the west side of the San Mateo between Auto Zone and Bank of the West (across from Grandy’s). Park directly behind the studio on west side in gated area or along San Mateo to avoid vehicle break-ins. Do not park behind Auto Zone. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Clean dance shoes and tennis shoes OK. $6 admission. In honor of daffodil season, we may “spring” a few surprises on you all.

ABQ Concert, Sunday, March 12
The Karan Casey Band, Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave., NE, 7 PM
Karan Casey is one of the most instantly recognizable, alluring and original voices in all of world music. The former longtime lead vocalist with the Irish supergroup Solas exhibits the grace, pacing and richness of an old soul. The Wall Street Journal says Karan Casey is “one of the true glories in Irish music today,” while the Associated Press says Casey has “…a voice so beautiful, it’s almost impossible to avoid falling under her spell.” Her album The Winds Begin to Sing (Shanachie Records) won Irish Music Magazine’s “Best Folk Album” award in 2001. Her latest CD, Chasing the Sun, represents a new level of maturity for Karan and is presented with an immediacy and vibrancy that will delight her fans as well as attracting a whole new audience. Visit www.abqmusic.com for more info and to purchase tickets.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice, Tuesday, March 14
Join the Megaband on Tuesday, March 14, at the Blue Dragon, 1517 Girard NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Bring your sweeties, and maybe they’ll play some rowdy but romantic old-time tunes. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

This & That
Folkmadness Camp: You should have received a FOLKMADness camp flyer and registration form in the mail if you’re a FOLKMADS member, or find them at dance tables, or on the web at www.folkmads.org. Now all you have to do is send the registration form in! This 14th annual camp’s lineup of guest callers, singer, and musicians is sterling. Mark your calendars for May 26-29, 2006, Socorro, NM. The waffle machine and ice cream scoops await you!

Outpost Performance Space Concerts: There are a bunch of good concerts coming up at the Outpost Performance Space in Albuquerque. Count Basie Orchestra, Cesaria Evora,
Cape Verde?s queen of morna music, and Susan McKeown Celtic Trio are just a few. Check out http://www.outpostspace.org/ for more info.

Santa Fe Concerts: GiG is Santa Fe’s non-profit performance space. GiG is located at 1808 Second St. The suggested donation is $7 to $10. All shows are at 8 PM. Check out www.gigsantafe.com for more details about each week’s artists and listen to their music samples at the Listen link! This music is updated weekly, so please check back often.

New Scottish Country Dancing class in Taos: Dancers are meeting on Thursday evenings, 7-9, at the Chrysalis School (except not March 30 and April 13, due to the school being closed on those days). Head out of town on Kit Carson. Turn LEFT on Evergreen Lane, just across from Anglada’s. Chrysalis School is about half a block down that dirt road on the left. Scottish Country Dancing is what evolved into American square dancing when the Scots settled in America. It is still a popular form of social dancing in Scotland, and internationally. Great exercise–stimulating music! The teacher, Rob, has taught SCD in San Diego for many years, but now that he is finally able to move full time to Taos, he is starting a class there. Kilts are not required, and you don’t need to bring a partner. Thin, soft-soled shoes are suggested. Rob Sanders, 751-0191, RobTaosSCD@aol.com They also have classes in Santa Fe, Los Alamos, and Albuquerque. Visit the website: http://www.losalamos.com/nmrscds/ for more info.

If you have folk music and/or dance events for me to list for the 2nd half of March, let me know by March 15th. I’m waiting to hear from Las Cruces, Taos and AMP concerts re: March events.

Merri Rudd
www.merridancing.com

Here is my folk enews for the rest of February. Lots of cool stuff is going on and lots of “this and that” are at the end of this blog. Thanks to all my loyal readers for keeping me up to date!

Good Eats & Good Tunes in Bernalillo, Feb. 16
The Sandia Hots are back at the Range Cafe on the main drag in Bernalillo, New Mexico, about 15 miles north of Albuquerque and 45 miles south of Santa Fe, just off I-25. You’re all invited to join the band on Thursday night, February 16th, from 7PM until 9PM. Great food, good company and live music played by your friends. Sandia Hots are husband-and-wife teams Scott Mathis, Linda Askew, Liz Stevens, and Mike Gallagher.

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, Feb. 17
Lonnie, Lewis, Cynthia (aka Chole), and Sam, Cynthia’s soon-to-be father-in-law, will be giving the introductory lessons, briefly teaching each dance and calling with music provided by the SNMMDS HOUSE BAND. 7:30-10:30 pm. The theme is “Red Hearts” Contra dance, a colorful dance with 4, count ’em, 4 contra callers. Theme is RED, RED, RED, so check your closets. Newcomer lessons start at 7:30 pm — come early and help the first-timers or get a refresher. NEW SPACE: Las Cruces has a WOODEN DANCE FLOOR again and stage for the band!!! The new location is: SAN ANDRES LEARNING CENTER GYM, 2355 Avenida De Mesilla / S. Highway 28, Las Cruces (Mesilla). It is on the main street going through Mesilla and 5 blocks east of the Old Mesilla Community Center where we danced for 15 years, very easy to find. DIRECTIONS: I-10 exit 140, Avenida De Mesilla, go west exactly 1.1 miles to Mesilla. There is a brown “Historic Mesilla Plaza –> ” sign in front of the building. Turn left (east) BEFORE you pass this sign and park in back, entrance in back. (Note: the new Mesilla Town Hall & Visitors Center is next door, so there is loads of parking.) For a map, go to web: http://www.zianet.com/lcludeman/contra/map.htm Also, I-10 exit 142 W. University, go west to Hwy 28, turn right, go past school to north end, turn right and park in back.

The January Las Cruces dance was the largest in history, 68 dancers plus 8 musicians and callers. Amazingly, at least 50 were there at 7:30 to help 22 newcomers get off to a great dance start. They also had Pete and Sue from Kansas and 2 other contra dance gypsies passing through and dancing with them. They filled the dance hall completely and the “down the hall four in line” became eight in line, a sea of faces flowing to the music.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, Feb. 18
Santa Fe’s Chris Kelly is calling and Megaband is playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others. Here’s Chris’ dance bio for your enjoyment: “Chris Kelly loves to dance and to make dancing fun for others. She has been calling for contradances, weddings, schools, dance weekends, and camps since 1995 in Austin, throughout Texas, and in Arkansas, West Virginia, Kentucky, Alabama, Michigan, California, and British Columbia. Her past professional work includes writing and the corporate management of technical writers. She’s still called on to write and edit speeches, textbooks, memoirs, screenplays, and to teach writing classes, and she is currently in the process of editing a book of her own contradances. Before her five children were born, she taught preschool, first grade, literacy and ESL classes, and was director of two private schools in Dallas. She regularly teaches contradance classes and seminars that teach adults to teach dancing, for the Austin Waldorf School, Down Home Ranch, Pioneer Farms, the Kodaly Music Teachers Conference, Austin Children’s Choir, as well as calling several contradances each month. She now lives with her family in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and teaches Grade Three at the Santa Fe Waldorf School.”

FOLKMADS Board Meeting, Sat., Feb. 18, 4-6 p.m.
Board meeting is at Scott and Linda’s house, 1116 Columbia NE, Albuquerque. All are welcome!

Free Albuq. Concert, Feb. 18
If you can’t dance, Elliott Rogers, Wayne Shrubsall, and Janice Rogers are playing a free concert at Solid Grounds Feb.18th, 6:30 p.m. Located in the Lower Worship Area of the St. Stephens Church, 4601 Juan Tabo NE , Albuquerque, NM 87111, (505) 293-9673 Ext. 111, solidgrounds@ssumc.com

Another ABQ Concert, Feb. 18 & 19
Baroque Music concert of Bach, Telemann, Corelli, Marais performed on period instruments. Albuquerque concert is Sat., Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m., Los Altos Christian Church, 11900 Haines NE. Corrales concert is Sun., Feb. 19, 3 p.m., Historic Old San Ysidro Church, just off Corrales Road on Old Church Road. $12 general admission, $10 seniors (62+), $5 students. Call 255-7089 for reservations. See also www.unm.edu/~sbpatric

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, Feb. 18
Rejoice, and get ready your dancing shoes and outfits for Saturday, Feb. 18!! We have secured the “elegant and spacious” dancing-room of the San Geronimo Lodge for this month’s regular dance! By the San Geronimo’s rules, we must be finished by 10, so we’ll start the music — and dancing — at 7 p.m., rather than 7:30. No driving ten miles or more, up to the wilds of Arroyo Seco, when you’re not feeling well on a cold wintry night! The musicians have been learning a few new tunes, and they’ll be dancing to those tunes and more. There was great music and dancing at the retirement party for longtime Taos fiddler and district court judge, the Honorable Peggy Nelson, a few weeks ago. “Hey!” people said, “This is fun! When do you do it! Where?” Right here, in New Mexico, all over!

ABQ Concert, Sun., Feb. 19
The Kennedys at The Windchime Champagne Gallery, 518 Central SW (Downtown)
7:30 PM
Even after ten years, over a thousand gigs and 500,000 miles of touring as a married, music-making couple, singer-guitarists Pete and Maura Kennedy still like each other. The duo savors each instance in life and in each others’ company, and it shows in their music. Their first gig together was in the Beatles’ hometown of Liverpool, England, as part of Nanci Griffith’s Blue Moon Orchestra. With a shared love for the roots of American rock ‘n’ roll, and a passion for British pop from the Fab Four to Fairport Convention, Pete and Maura Kennedy have brought their wide-ranging influences together for a fresh contemporary pop sound. Visit www.abqmusic.com for details.

Taos Concert, Sun., Feb. 19
Radio Free Bassanda!
Music from the Mediterranean, Near East and Balkans at the Adobe Bar in the Taos Inn
Sunday, February, 19th, 6:30-9:30pm
Radio Free Bassanda! was founded by Roger Landes, Mason Brown and Chipper Thompson out of a shared interest in the various modal musics from around the Mediterranean, the Middle & Near East, and the Balkans. Modal music is one of the oldest types of music, while remaining the dominant musical language in many parts of the world. Modal musics emphasize melody and rhythm rather than harmony and they invariably contain a great deal of improvisation and spontaneous invention. It is helpful to visualize western musics, because of their fascination with harmony, as vertical, sky-grasping structures built of sound ? like a Gothic cathedral ? a technique often called ?architonics.? Modal musics, however, are mostly horizontal in nature. They are highly ornate, much like the designs adorning a mosque or an eastern orthodox church. Roger Landes: plucked string instruments Arabic Oud (lute), Arabic Buzuq, Turkish Lavta, Irish bouzouki, Greek Laouto. Mason Brown: bowed strings, bass Viola da Gamba, and the smaller Pardessus viol. Chipper Thompson: percussion, Arabic Dumbeq and Riqq, Turkish Darabukka, Persian Zarb, Be Wright: Double Bass. For more information contact: Lisa Wright at: 505.758.7095, or: ljthered@taosnet.com

4th Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, Feb. 25
Contra Dance in Santa Fe happens Saturday, Feb. 25, 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd., Open Mic for callers and SF Megaband playing. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m. And for those of you who drive up to Trader Joe’s in Santa Fe to shop for dark chocolate-covered ginger, Albuquerque’s Trader Joe’s is set to open on March 10. It’s on Paseo del Norte about 2 stoplights east of I-25 at Ventura.

4th Sunday Contra Dance, Albuq., Feb. 26
Artie Walsh and friends calling, Cypher (Juli Palladino and friends) playing. 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, 5506 Coal SE (2 blocks south of Central, 1.5 blocks east of San Mateo). $5 all. Call Artie for more info: 332-3737 (new number!).

This & That
Planning Ahead: Ken and Jeanie of Bayou Seco fame are looking forward to playing the March 4 and 25 dances with Scott and Linda in ABQ and SF. Also on the 3rd of March they are doing a (Post) Mardi Gras Party with other Bayou Seco members -also know as Jasper – Terry Bluhm, Jefferson Voorhees and Frank McCullough at Harlow’s on the Hill on Nob Hill. $5 cover, 9-12 PM. Prizes for the best costumes. Jeanie writes, “We were very sad to hear about Mike Smith. He came over here January 7 when Scott and Linda were visiting, and we had a great night of music. We were so looking forward to him being in the Silver City community. He and Cate had just bought a house here.”

Mike Smith Report: Laura Hebenstreit sent me a report on Mike Smith’s Celebration of Life on February 4 in Tucson. She writes, “There was a very well-attended memorial celebrating the life and person of Mike Smith in Tucson just before the contra dance at O’Malleys. Buz and I attended, and there were people who had come from everywhere (including Alaska) to play music, remember, support each other, and honor a man badly missed. I was unaware that he was a master craftsman in wood – there was a slide show of his youth, some of his wood creations (including an incredible spiral staircase), and many photos and some video of music scenes. Multiple people from different circles in his life provided memories and stories. Music was provided by harp players, then Trim the Velvet and Round the House. There was a notebook for memories and tributes to be written, and a compilation of sympathetic and supportive emails. It was a celebratory atmosphere and toward the end, all the musicians were called up to the stage. The room rocked and a group of children from a local school of Irish dance demonstrated their light-footedness and expertise! It was quite a tribute. They had kind of settled on having the new guitar player join them before all this happened since Mike and Cate were planning to move to Silver City. The remaining band played alone for a while, and Claire sang a very clear and soulful tune. After a few songs they brought out the new guitar player (can’t remember his name) and introduced him. He had previously had the opportunity to play with Mike and appreciated learning from him, shared some memories and a song that he played by himself in Mike’s honor. It is interesting that you felt your dance atmosphere on February 4 was charmed, as there was a strong music family affection coming out of Tucson that night.”

Gene Hubert Very Ill: Famous caller and dance choreographer Gene Hubert and wife Jenny were married 5 years ago and have a little boy who is 4 or so. Gene and Jenny live in Durham, NC and have not been out and about in the dance world as much since becoming parents. Gene has been ill and the Huberts got the diagnosis last week: Gene has stage 4 pancreatic cancer. This is a most difficult time for them and they need our prayers, thinking of you cards, etc. We all wish we knew what to say…send love, send messages, send whatever healing energy you can muster, dance Gene’s dances with joy and good thoughts. Gene and Jenny’s address is: 1001 Goodwin Road, Durham, NC 27712.

Roger Landes Classes: Well-known musician and organizer Roger Landes is happy to hear from those of you who might be interested in private lessons or participating in a workshop. He has a new website and invites you all to take a look at it and let him know what you think: http://rogerlandes.com It has an “Instruction” page. There you will find information on possible workshop topics. Please don’t hesitate to email or call him for more information.

Folk Harp Needed: A Vermont musician is looking for a small folk harp to rent for March
and April 2006. She will be in Taos – can’t get to Albuquerque, but can get to Santa Fe. Any ideas? If so, email Joan Shimer at shimer@VALLEY.NET

Folk Bloggers Wanted: Are you learning to like blogging? FOLKMADS web mistress Jane Phillips just set up a cool FOLMADS blog. http://folkmadsroadtrips.blogspot.com/ Any FOLKMADS dancer, musician or member who wants to post a tale of travelling to dance, play, listen or otherwise experience another community is welcome to do so. Contact Jane at heyjane@yahoo.com for details on how to post an entry. Come on, all you budding writers, once you blog, there’s no going back!

Remember that www.folkmads.org has calendars and info on FOLKMADS events. FolkMadness Camp registration for Memorial Day weekend is open! Don’t miss this smashing combination of contra, English country and waltz workshops with some of the nation’s finest dance musicians and leaders. Let me know of events to list for March by February 28.

Thanks,

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Hello, Folkies,

Well, well, well, there was a lot of activity on my new blog. Hundreds of you have checked it out. Thanks! Most people like the blog, except for the few who had trouble browsing it. I will cut and paste this post into an email for those who preferred email (sorry you won’t get photos, formatting or graphics). Many of you want both, an email reminder to check the blog, so I will continue to do that.

Number one complaint last month was not about switching to the blog. It was about there being twenty extra women at the Albuquerque January dances and being instructed to “look deep into the eyes” of their partner and flirt. Apparently, most women think this is more fun if they are looking at an actual guy instead of a woman dancing as a guy. So, guys, listen up: come dance with us! And consider bringing another dancing guy with you. One of the women did report that she went to the El Rey on January 28 and “danced every Wagogo dance except the first dance — two hours of continuous dancing – her kind of dancing!”

Of course, as soon as I type this, I can imagine what will happen at the next dance–the guys will show up, and the women, discouraged over lack of partners the last few times, will not. So here’s the solution: everybody come dance in Albuquerque this Saturday just to see what happens! I have actually run into three guys who plan to dance this Saturday, and they weren’t at the last dance. So maybe they’re starting a trend.

Corrales Sing, Friday, February 3
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. There will be a Valentine-ish theme of Seduction/Careless Love/Bawdy Songs. Bawdy songs only makes it onto the theme roster every few years, so if you know some good naughty ones this is your big chance.

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 4
Merri Rudd calling the contra dance to Hands Five’s tunes. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others.

Dance Twice in Albuquerque on February 4
Kris Jensen is calling a square dance to recorded music for everyone earlier that day. She purposely scheduled it for the afternoon, so it doesn’t conflict with the FolkMADS dance (yeah, Kris!!!).
Special Fun Dance – A square dance for everyone called by Kris Jensen.
Saturday, February 4, 2006, from 1:30 – 3:30 pm
Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, Albuquerque.
For more info (and coupons for free admission), see http://www.dancenewmexico.org
You could dance, then go eat at one of the many restaurants at I-25 and Jefferson (or the Cracker Barrel, yum), then come back for the contra dance.

If You Can't Dance, Listen to Ruthie & Eric on February 4
Albuquerque concert is SOLD OUT!! Eric Bibb & Ruthie Foster in concert at S. Broadway Cultural Center. Eric’s sings “stripped down acoustic blues that quietly rock the soul” and Foster sings a remarkable blend of blues, gospel, roots and folk music rich with honest spirituality and emotion. You’ll have to pick another town, Farmington, Clovis or Alamosa, CO during the next week if you want to go. Visit www.ruthiefoster.com or www.ericbibb.com for details.

Durango, Colorado Dance, February 4
Albuquerque’s band Hey! is playing for the Feb. 4th contra in Durango, that’s being held in conjunction with Snowdown, their annual winter festival. The festival’s theme this year is “disco,” so the contra is similarly themed, with a disco costume and dance contest. Wendy Graham’s calling. Snowdown event website.

Bosque House Concert, Albuquerque, Feb. 5, Sunday
February 5, Sunday, 6:30 p.m. (it could be sold out, so email before you show up)
Bosque House Concert #83 featuring Annie Gallup

Beat Poet Songwriter and “spoke folk” artist Annie Gallup’s writing is unabashedly imaginative and richly sensual. She is a teller of short, elaborate tales?song-length works of fiction that sparkle with the complexity and polish of poetry; tightly packed lyrical strands that crackle with intelligence and spry wordplay, and pulse with insistent rhythm. Dirty Linen wrote, “She sounds like the musical daughter of Joni Mitchell and Lou Reed, simultaneously confident and vulnerable, a practiced storyteller and poet whose stream-of-consciousness narratives of strange but vivid characters share space with diamond-cut confessional vignettes of off-center and sometimes reckless romances.”
$12 suggested donation. Reservations required.
For reservations, contact Jeff at abqmusic@att.net or use the on-line reservation system.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, February 11
Check out the Contra Dance in Santa Fe, Saturday, February 11. The beloved Lausanne Allen of Taos via Vermont is calling, The Love Buzzards (Miguel Combs on fiddle and accordian, Cary Stickney on banjo, Ted Seely on bass, Scott Mathis on mandolin, Linda Askew on guitar) are playing. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

Second Sunday Dance, February 12
Noralyn Parsons and Kris Jensen will call elegant English country and zesty contra dances; music by Cloud 9 (oh, boy! Gemma DeRagon on fiddle, Mark Sardella on guitar, even though it’s during the legislative session, Michael Blackwell on flute and bodhran); 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Dance Studio in Albuquerque at 4217 San Mateo NE, 1 block south of Montgomery on the west side of the San Mateo between Auto Zone and Bank of the West (across from Grandy’s). Park directly behind the studio on west side in gated area or along San Mateo to avoid vehicle break-ins. Do not park behind Auto Zone. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Clean dance shoes and tennis shoes OK. $6 admission.

Albuquerque Megaband Practice on Valentine's Day
Join the Megaband on Tuesday, February 14, at the Blue Dragon, 1517 Girard NE, Albuquerque, 7:30-10:30 p.m. Bring your sweeties, and maybe they’ll play some rowdy but romantic old-time tunes. More info: Bruce Thomson, 277-4729.

Klezmer Mania February 17-19
KLEZMERQUERQUE 2006: THE SOUTHWEST?S CELEBRATION OF KLEZMER MUSIC AND DANCE
February 17th through February 19th ? President?s Day weekend
You don’t have to be Jewish to love Klezmer music. This year’s featured performers/teachers: Adrianne Greenbaum, Margot Leverett, Steve Weintraub.
Schedule of Events include Yiddish and Eastern European dance classes, Klezmer music workshops and two concert/dance parties. Location: Nahalat Shalom, 3606 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Albuquerque.
Phone: (505) 343-8227, E-mail: nahalatshalom@earthlink.net
WEB: www.nahalatshalom.org — Click on ?Klezmerquerque 2006?
FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT EVENT CO-ORDINATOR :
Beth Cohen, E-mail: cohenedmunds@netzero.net Ph: (505) 243-6276

This & That
Folkmadness Camp: You should have received a FOLKMADness camp flyer and registration form in the mail if you’re a FOLKMADS member, or find them at dance tables, or on the web at www.folkmads.org. Now all you have to do is send the registration form in! This 14th annual camp’s lineup of guest callers, singer, and musicians is sterling. Mark your calendars for May 26-29, 2006, Socorro, NM. The waffle machine and ice cream scoops await you!

Remember the Santa Fe Concert Venue
GiG is Santa Fe’s non-profit performance space. GiG is located at 1808 Second St. The suggested donation is $7 to $10. All shows are at 8 PM. Check out www.gigsantafe.com for more details about each week’s artists and listen to their music samples at the Listen link! This music is updated weekly, so please check back often.

If you have folk music and/or dance events for me to list for the 2nd half of February, let me know by February 15th. I’m waiting to hear from Las Cruces, Taos and AMP concerts re: February events. In the meantime, I’m off to Las Cruces for the Ruthie Foster concert. Read about it on my full blog: www.merridancing.com/wp

Merri Rudd
www.merridancing.com

Welcome to the new folk enews format. Let me know if you like this arrangement. The last enews had two incorrect links (so sorry): for the Maryland dance camp in April 2006 and the sterling Roger Landes review in the Irish Times (scroll to the bottom of that page).

Las Cruces Contra Dance, Friday, Jan. 20
Lonnie, Lewis and Cynthia will be giving the introductory lessons, briefly teaching each dance and calling with music provided by the SNMMDS HOUSE BAND. 7:30-10:30 pm. Mesilla Park Community Church, 3101 South Main Street, Las Cruces. Teaching contra basics at 7:30 pm. Cost $4. 522-1691 for more info. Directions: Exit I-10 142 at University, turn LEFT (west) onto University, turn LEFT (south) onto South Main Street (at the light under the freeway), go 2 blocks south & look for address.

Albuquerque Contra Dance, Saturday, Jan. 21
Donna Howell is calling and Megaband is playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others.

FOLKMADS Board Meeting, Sat., Jan. 21, 4-6 p.m.
Board meeting is at Scott and Linda’s house, 1116 Columbia NE, Albuquerque. All are welcome! Here are some AGENDA items for Saturday’s meeting:
Discussion of Recording Motions and Secondary Discussions
Review Previous Meeting Notes
Treasurer’s Report
Adding New Board Members (Linda Askew and Jane Phillips)
Albuq Dance Committee Report
Santa Fe Dance Committee Report
Taos Dance Committee Report
Formation of Committee to Review “Practices and Procedures”
Status of Heights Community Center
Dance Venues for March-June
Concert Committee
CD Project Update
Retreat Ideas
Albuquerque Folk Festival
Status of Membership Directory
Dance Camp
Webmaster’s Report

Taos Contra Dance, Saturday, Jan. 21
Next contra dance will be at the Community Center (the old school, across from the Parish Hall on Ski Valley Road) Saturday, Nov. 19. Time: 7:30 p.m. Lausanne Allen will be calling and I think Taos musicians will be playing. Bring somebody new to the dance, and they will get in FREE. $5 others, I think. Music and dancing begin at 7:30. So mark your calendars and get your dancing shoes and muscles ready! That’s 7:30 at the Arroyo Seco Community Center in Arroyo Seco, Saturday Jan. 21.

4th Sunday Contra Dance, Albuq., Jan. 22
Artie Walsh and friends calling, One Good Turn (here’s your chance to hear ’em, Gary Papenhagen on fiddle, Peter on guitar, Lou Blackwell on bass; not sure who else will play this night) playing. 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, 5506 Coal SE (2 blocks south of Central, 1.5 blocks east of San Mateo). $5 all. Call Artie for more info: 332-3737 (new number!).

Albuquerque AMP Upcoming Concerts
Schedule and details available at www.abqmusic.com
Jan 19: Bosque House Concerts Night of Chanteuses
featuring Marianne Dissard and Emilie Marchand
Jan 21: Greg Brown – Lobo Theater (SOLD OUT)
Jan 28: An AMP Dance Party with Lura and Wagogo – El Rey Theater
Feb 3: Po’ Girl – Puccini’s Golden West Saloon
Feb 5: A Bosque House Concert featuring Annie Gallup

4th Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, Jan. 28
Contra Dance in Santa Fe happens Saturday, Jan. 28, 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd., Lewis Land of Las Cruces calling (making his Santa Fe debut), and Roaring Jelly playing. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

Terrible Decision in Albuquerque: Concert or Dance on Sat., Feb. 4?!
You’re going to have to pick one on Saturday, Feb. 4: Merri Rudd calling the contra dance to Hands Five’s tunes. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others. OR…………..

Eric Bibb & Ruthie Foster in concert at S. Broadway Cultural Center. Eric’s sings “stripped down acoustic blues that quietly rock the soul” and Foster sings a remarkable blend of blues, gospel, roots and folk music rich with honest spirituality and emotion. www.cabq.gov for more info. If I weren’t calling, I’d be at the concert! OR…………….

You could do both by driving to Las Cruces on Feb. 2 for the Ruthie Foster & Eric Bibb concert, 8 pm, ASNMSU Cultural Series. NMSU Music Recital Hall (on N side of horseshoe). Tickets box office Pan Am Center, $12.30. Ruthie sings gutsy gospel, folk. Eric is a blues balladeer, folk blues, gospel. Read more on internet: http://panam.nmsu.edu/culturalseries0405.html or info 505-646-1420. Hmmm, now there’s an idea. Lonnie & Julie, can we stay with you?

Durango Dance, Feb. 4
Albuquerque’s band Hey! is playing for the Feb. 4th contra in Durango, that’s being held in conjunction with Snowdown, their annual winter festival. The festival’s theme this year is “disco,” so the contra is similarly themed, with a disco costume and dance contest. Wendy Graham’s calling. Snowdown event website.

This & That
A woman in the east mountains (outside Albuquerque) wants to find folks with whom to get together to sing and jam. Here is her contact info: suelew14@msn.com Susan Snyder Sponar, 505-286-1674. Please get in touch with her if you have contacts or advice.

Remember that www.folkmads.org has calendars and info on FOLKMADS events. FolkMadness Camp registration for Memorial Day weekend is open! Don’t miss this smashing combination of contra, English country and waltz workshops with some of the nation’s finest dance musicians and leaders. Let me know of events to list for February by January 31.

Thanks,

Merri Rudd
Albuquerque, NM
www.merridancing.com

Hello, Folkies,

Happy 2006! Lead story for today is FOLKMADS has a new president: Scott Mathis. Scott was one of the original founders of FOLKMADS 25 years ago and he and wife Linda have recently returned to Albuquerque from Denver. Welcome home! Here is Scott and one of his band, the Sandia Hots, left to right: Linda Askew, Liz Stevens, Mike Gallagher, Mr. Prez Scott.

Scott is a new burst of energy for the group, and he wants more members to participate in the activities of the organization. For one thing, the Albuquerque Dance Committee needs help with the cash box, publicity, welcoming committee, cleanup, etc. You don’t have to volunteer for every dance, but “adopting” one or two dances per year to help at would tremendously assist. Along those lines, Scott has an ambitious agenda planned for the next FOLKMADS Board Meeting, and he asked me to invite anyone who wants to attend:

Saturday Jan. 21st at 4:00 PM. 1116 Columbia NE, Albuquerque, a few streets west of Girard and a few houses south of Constitution NE.

Maybe he’ll even post the agenda for the meeting on the web site, www.folkmads.org prior to the meeting! Next time you see the outgoing president Kelly Kellstedt of Santa Fe, thank him for his work.

Corrales Sing, Friday, January 6
FOLK SONG CIRCLE. The themes for this month are: New Year/Twelfth Night/Wassail AND Fortune/Luck/Chance/Gambling.
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 7
Katherine Bueler of Santa Fe calling and the rock solid Fast Pesos playing. 8-11 p.m., acoustic jam at 7 p.m.; newcomers class at 7:30. Albuquerque Square Dance Center, 4909 Hawkins NE, one full block west of I-25 and 1/2 block north of Ellison. See www.asdc.org for directions. $5 members, $6 others.

Durango Contra Dance, Saturday, January 7
If you happen to be in southwest Colorado, you’re in for a special treat. Albuquerque’s rising stars band Hands Five (Bruce Thomson on fiddle, Erika Gerety on mandolin and bass, Peter Esherick on hammer dulcimer, John Brinduse on guitar and Gary Blank on percussion) are playing. The always-smiling Wendy Graham is calling. The dance is at the VFW Hall, 1515 Main Avenue, Durango. Beginner instruction is at 7:00 p.m. Dancing is from 7:30 to 10:30. Admission is $7. To encourage new-comers (and old timers) to come to the lesson, admission at 7:00 is reduced to $5. For further information, call 970-259-6820. Hands Five will also be doing a house concert at Rocky Mountain Retreat, 848 E 3rd Ave, on Friday January 6th. For further information on the concert call 970-903-9402.

Second Sunday Dance, January 8
A little known fact: when the 1st of the month falls on a Sunday, the 2nd Sunday dance is the same weekend as the 1st Sat. Albuq. dance! So the very next night Noralyn Parsons will call elegant English country and zesty contra dances; music by One Good Turn (Gary Papenhagen and Linda Vik on fiddle, Peter Wegman on guitar, Lou Blackwell on bass, and Gary Blank on percussion); 7:00 – 9:30 p.m., Dance Studio in Albuquerque at 4217 San Mateo NE, 1 block south of Montgomery on the west side of the San Mateo between Auto Zone and Bank of the West (across from Grandy’s). Park directly behind the studio on west side in gated area or along San Mateo to avoid vehicle break-ins. Do not park behind Auto Zone. Bring clean dance shoes. No shoes with nails or that leave black scuff marks, please. Clean dance shoes and tennis shoes OK. $6 admission.

Santa Fe Contra Dance, Saturday, January 14
Check out the Contra Dance in Santa Fe, Saturday, January 14. The oh-so-smooth Chris Kelly of Santa Fe is calling, The Taos Contraband is playing. 8 p.m. -11 p.m., IOOF Hall, 1125 Cerrillos Rd. $5 members, $6 others. Instruction at 7:30 p.m.

Albuquerque AMP Concerts Galore in January
You can get more information at anytime on the web at www.abqmusic.com. Here are upcoming concerts:
Jan 13: Acoustic Eidolon – Windchime Champagne Gallery
Jan 14: Rodney Crowell – KiMo Theatre
Jan 19: Bosque House Concerts Night of Chanteuses
featuring Marianne Dissard and Emilie Marchand
Jan 21: Greg Brown – Lobo Theater
Jan 28: An AMP Dance Party with Lura and Wagogo – El Rey Theater (I can personally attest that Wagogo is so dance-rhythmic, I once started a congo line with a hundred 60-80- year-old women to dance to them!)
SELL OUTS PENDING: Both Rodney Crowell and Greg Brown tickets are moving at sell out rates. There is a good chance there won’t be tickets available by show time.

This & That
Folkmadness Camp: Camp flyers and registration forms are in the mail if you’re a FOLKMADS member, or at dance tables, or on the web at www.folkmads.org. This 14th annual camp’s lineup of guest callers, singer, and musicians is sterling. Mark your calendars for May 26-29, 2006, Socorro, NM. The waffle machine and ice cream scoops await you!

Taos Ball: I liked this summary sent by Jim Buechler of the Taos Holiday Ball on Dec. 17. “If it were possible to measure Joy, in quantity, or in intensity, there would have been a great deal of it recorded last night at the San Geronimo Lodge. The “spacious” dance floor filled, without intermission, for three solid hours. Musicians and dancers and caller Lausanne all indefatigable, faces shining with perspiration and goodwill. “If only the whole World would do this,” said someone on the side, as my partner for that dance and I moved by, turning, and my partner responded, ” Why is this so much fun?” But the moment was for living, doing as the music told us, not reasoning, and we turned on, round and round…. If only the whole World would do this!”

Accolades to NM musicians: I thought this was really cool: Irish Times’ Siobhan Long names “House to House” among the top five Trad Albums of 2005! http://www.ireland.com/theticket/articles/2005/1216/3414767411TKARROW2TK1612IARLAT.html American duo Randal Bays and Roger Landes took center stage with not so much as a spotlight to surprise and delight with their fiddle and bouzouki duet, House to House. At a sufficient remove from the origins of the music they evidently love, Bays and Landes inhabited the tunes with a refreshing vigour, and their insistence on retaining the personality of the live recording, replete with foot taps and squeaky chairs, only added to the technicolour of the collection.

Farewell from Maggie: Dear Albuquerque Dancers, Thanks so much for your wonderful hospitality, terrific music and enthusiastic dancing. I have had a great time with you all in the friendliest city in the country. No contest. I enjoyed the warm climate, (weather and personalities), and the beauty of the desert and mountains for over two years.
I have decided for many reasons to return to my family in Pennsylvania, and will be moving around a bit for the next month. After that, I will have my own place. Any dancers visiting this area are, of course welcome to hospitality with me. The kindness and welcoming nature of the ABQ dancers are becoming a legend among my friends. Thanks so much for a terriffic two+ years. Have a wonderful holiday season , and keep in touch. Much love, Maggie Byram Thanks, Maggie, and happy dancing in Pennsylvania!

Planning Ahead: http://www.wam.umd.edu/~jmerck/cdw06/
Steve Mills says check out the above camp. He says it’s a great camp (except for the cabins — esp. if there’s a snorer). He ran into the Rev. Cary and the mother-in-law of Santa Fe fiddling Robin a couple of years ago when the Groovemongers were playing. Beautiful location, good dancers, though not as warm as Texas-NM-Arizona. And here’s a really obscure fact: I took John Merck, this camp’s organizer, to his 1st contra dance in 1982!

Remember the Santa Fe Concert Venue!
GiG is Santa Fe’s non-profit performance space. GiG is located at 1808 Second St. The suggested donation is $7 to $10. All shows are at 8 PM. Check out www.gigsantafe.com for more details about each week’s artists and listen to their music samples at the Listen link! This music is updated weekly, so please check back often.

If you have folk music and/or dance events for me to list for the 2nd half of January, let me know by January 17th. I’m sure I’m forgetting something, but this is all I remember for the moment.

Merri Rudd
www.merridancing.com