ContraShock’s 2024 Artists
River Road
River Road delivers beauty, power, and groove to contra dances with a highly revered mixture of contemporary and traditional tunes with strong influences from Quebecois, New England, and maritime traditions, featuring Sarah-Hadley Yakir on fiddle; Kristen Planeaux on piano, flute, and accordion; and Jesse Ball on mandolin, guitar, accordion, and foot percussion.
Stove Dragon
Four exceptional New England contra musicians join forces as Stove Dragon, the kindly dance-beast, breathing in notes and breathing out smoldering rhythms and flickering melodies, igniting dancers' feet and toasting listeners' ears.
Oliver Scanlon and Rose Jackson fill the room with melodic lift and tight, dynamic double-fiddle harmony, while Sam Zakon-Anderson and Max Newman are a beating heart of fiery piano-guitar groove.
Stove Dragon draws on the combined tool kits of their individual experiences touring with Pete’s Posse, Nor’easter, Polaris, The Stringrays and more. Infused with the subtle warmth of excellent musicianship, their music propels through snappy New England tunes, punchy French Canadian sets, smooth and driving Irish reels, delightful improvisations, and trad-inspired originals.
Hold on tight and let Stove Dragon take you for a spin!
Will Mentor
Will Mentor is perhaps the foremost contra dance caller in the United States. For the last 20 years, his clear teaching, upbeat wit, and relaxed stage presence have been delighting new and old dancers alike.
Liz Nelson
Liz Nelson is a dance caller residing in Western Massachusetts. She is well-known for her clear, concise teaching and warm, welcoming presence. She knows that everyone can dance and firmly believes “if you’re having fun and being safe, you’re doing it right!” Nothing delights her more than working with a group of enthusiastic, joyful dancers (no matter what age or experience level).