Hard to know where to jump in here, but I am thrilled we are having this conversation. First of all, many years ago I always used to (incorrectly) quote Tony as having said "when in doubt, call Texas Star". I find that dance accessible for almost any experience level and it's pretty easy to stay on the phrase. It turns out Tony never said that hah hah, but I still love the dance and use it often.. BUT,..

I've been more interested in calling singing squares lately and, though my last experience doing so to a "contra dance crowd" was at Ralph Page in 2020 (just prior to the Covid shutdown) and that's not a typical "contradance crowd' to say the least!! BUT it does bring up the issue of having to coordinate with the band ahead of time because they need to know or learn the tune. (Though I do remember one time at the little Kingston, NH dance when the band was Vince O'Donnell, David Kaynor and Debby Knight and throwing On the Trail of the lonesome Pine and Smoke on the Water at them with no warning and "no problem let's go"! woo hoo..

Anyway I wonder how many are trying singing squares with their 'reluctant' contra dance crowds.

bill

(Oh yeah,.. Tony's book, Ralph's book, Ted's book, David's project... YES!!!!!)