Cape Cod Dance Weekend
The Staff
Elixir
Playing/calling for contras, squares, English, and couples dancing
Elixir blends driving fiddle and guitar with the rich texture and rhythmic excitement of a full horn section, deftly weaving brassy riffs and daring solos in and out of traditional Irish, French Canadian and New England tunes. Elixir is: Nils Fredland (calling/trombone), Anna Patton (clarinet), Jesse Hazzard-Watkins (trumpet), Ethan Hazzard-Watkins (fiddle), and Owen Morrison (guitar/feet). Elixir web site…
Nor’easter
Playing for contras, squares, English, and couples dancing
Boston-based trio Nor’easter is Cedar Stanistreet on the fiddle, Max Newman on the mandolin and guitar, and Julie Vallimont on the piano and accordion. Drawing from New England musical traditions, they delight in creating an exciting, joyous sound that catches both your ear and your feet. They began playing together in 2008 and have steadily built up their music and their following. They have traveled throughout the continent, playing in more than twenty US States and three Canadian provinces. Nor’easter web site…
Sue Rosen
Calling Contras, Squares, and English Country
Sue is one of our favorite callers around – nationally known and a local favorite in the Boston area. We’re excited for her to join us in 2014!
Mary Wesley
Host, MC, and calling contras and squares
Mary Wesley is a dance leader, caller, and organizer for contras, squares, morris, and family and community dances. A native of Vermont, she travels throughout New England and beyond to follow and share her love of dance. Growing up, Mary visited Mashpee every summer with family; she is so excited to return to the Cape to be a part of Elixir’s new dance weekend! Her friendly enthusiasm is sure to please. Mary’s web site…
Pat MacPherson
Co-Organizer and Volunteer Coordinator
Pat is the Director of Education at the Country Dance and Song Society and got involved with these Elixir folks when she hired Ethan to be the first CDSS Youth Intern, and then stated working with Nils on publications. Pat plays piano for English dancing and for many years played fiddle at Pinewoods Camp Scottish week; has been dancing since the age of 5, when she was first taken to ballet then Scottish country dance classes in Toronto; loves Southern squares and swing dancing; and makes a mean cocktail.
Tony Hernandez
Doing sound!
Tony Hernandez is our favorite sound engineer anywhere. Period. He’ll make sure the bands sound their best, the callers are clearly audible, and everyone is happy. He’s also likely to sleep less than anyone else at the weekend, so look for him in a late night jam, by the waterfront, and first in line for coffee in the morning.