Ring in the New Year early with contra dancing in Sautee

Dance out 2017 at a special contra dance in Sautee on Saturday, December 30, with the band Joyful Noise and dance caller Diane Silver. Come early for a potluck dinner (information below) with a community of dancers ready for an evening of amazing music and challenging dances.

Joyful Noise is a group of four nationally renowned dance musicians assembled by pianist George Paul. Joining George are Cailen Campbell on fiddle, TJ Crow on mandolin, and Steve Kemble on percussion.

A bonus will be the dance calling skills of Diane Silver from North Carolina. Diane is one of the most delightfully inspired veteran callers on the circuit. She is known for her “clear and kind” calling style and positive, community-building spirit that puts less experienced dancers at ease. Diane also loves to call “hot” modern contras, with a few fun squares mixed in, to provide a sizzling evening for dancers of all experience levels.

Diane Silver, dance caller

George Paul cut his professional teeth in jazz clubs, blues bars and honky tonks on the West Coast. He brings a combination of all these influences to contra dance playing, providing a very unique feel to the music. George has composed hundreds of dance tunes and recorded several CDs with contra dance bands and three waltz CDs, mostly of his own material.

George Paul, piano

Fiddler Cailen Campbell is one of Asheville's most beloved musicians. He brings both depth and playfulness to his consummate fiddle-playing, enlivening contra dances with his stratospheric reach and energy. He is also a dedicated homesteader practicing sustainable farming.

Cailen Campbell, fiddle

Percussionist Steve Kemble includes hand drums from Africa and other traditions in his repertoire. He also plays in a marimba band with his wife, Mollie, where he builds most of the instruments. Their building company, MudStrawLove, uses natural, sustainable building materials.

Steve Kemble, percussion

Mandolin player TJ Crow is known for his ability to inspire dancers and musicians alike with high energy and a solid groove. He has toured with dozens of contra dance bands and recorded with Vassar Clements, John McCutcheon, Robin and Linda Williams, and Tom Paxton. TJ has adapted the mandolin to many different styles, from jazz to middle eastern.

TJ Crow, mandolin

Community potluck, 6:30 pm:  bring a main dish to share.  No introductory lesson; some dance experience is helpful, but all are welcomed. Dance, 8-11 pm. SNCA members, $10; non-members, $12; students, $6; children 12 and under, free. The SNC historic gym is located at 283 Highway 255 North, ¼ mile off Highway 17 in Sautee, Georgia. Contact:  (706) 878-3300; www.snca.org or www.sauteecontra.com.