The Talent

Bands

Tidal Wave (Quebec and New Hampshire)

Tidal Wave is English for Raz-de-Marée, and the name aptly describes this musical powerhouse. With cross-border personnel from Quebec and New England, Raz-de-Marée invites cultures to meet and share the love of traditional music and dance. Since 2003, Sabin Jacques (accordion and foot percussion), Éric Favreau (fiddle, vocals), Stuart Kenney (banjo and upright bass), and Rachel Aucoin (piano, vocals) have coalesced as one of North America's premier dance bands. Their music is deeply grounded in Quebecois traditional instrumental traditions, but they make something fresh from the traditional music that is infectious and always delightful. Raz-de-Marée plays with skill, consummate musicality, power and a deep appreciation for traditional music.

Zollo (Seattle, WA)

Zollo, from Seattle, WA, features Cathie Whitesides (of the Rhythm Rollers) on fiddle, Anita Anderson (of Bag o' Tricks) on piano, and Nova Devonie (of Ranch Romance and Jo Miller bands) on accordion — plus special attraction Russell Shumsky (of Afro Shillelagh and Lift Ticket) on percussion and marimba. They play dance music for music lovers, combining influences from Greek, African, Balkan, ragtime, swing, pop, and rockabilly. Seductive dance grooves plus exotic rhythms and melodies—nonstop dancing is in your future.

Callers

Diane Silver (Asheville, NC)

One of the most sought-after callers in the southeast, Diane Silver has been a die-hard contra dancer, swing dancer, and kitchen flat-footer for over 15 years. With a penchant for hot modern contras and active squares, she loves sharing high-energy dancing that allows everyone to “play” with the band. Highly acclaimed for her clear, efficient teaching and calling, creative medleys, great positive energy, and spirit of community building, Diane provides a sizzling evening of dance in a friendly, welcoming tone.

Joyce Miller (Grass Valley, CA)

Joyce Miller began contra dancing in the early 1990s in Sacramento and the Bay Area. After her calling debut in 2000, it didn't take long for Joyce to become one of the most sought-after callers in Northern California. Joyce has called throughout the western states and into Canada, spreading the gospel of dances selected for maximum enjoyment and taught with clarity and wit. As a caller, her goals are to match the program to the dancers, showcase the musicians, and avoid gimmicks.

Sound

Alan Roberts (Seattle, WA)

Alan is a fiddle player (plays with Southwest Passage) and dancer in addition to being an excellent sound man. He is aware of the nuances that make us all happy, and is able to provide a great experience for the callers, band members and dancers.