Here are some additional resources that may be of interest to contra dance musicians in the Seattle area. This list is still a work in progress, and there’s much more to be added!
If you notice something missing, or if you’re looking for something specific,
feel free to email us at contratunebuilder@gmail.com – we’re happy to help!
Techniques
Les Pieds
Devon Legér gave a really great rundown on how to do "the feet" during our April 2025 session. Here's the basics!
If you want more great videos (including lessons) from Devon, be sure to check out his Tune of the Day on Patreon or YouTube.
Private Lessons
Hayden Stern
Hayden Stern offers personalized fiddle lessons tailored to each student's unique learning style, with a focus on Celtic, Canadian, and American fiddle traditions. With over a decade of experience, Hayden creates an inclusive and supportive learning environment that emphasizes both technical excellence and enjoyment. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned player, you'll find a welcoming space to grow musically!
Sarah Comer
Sarah Comer offers engaging and personalized fiddle lessons that honor traditional folk music and its history. With a focus on learning by ear and understanding music theory, Sarah creates a supportive environment where students of all levels can build a strong foundation and achieve their musical goals. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, her approach makes learning the fiddle both fun and rewarding!
Contra Dances
You can go contra dancing (and enjoy some excellent tunes) twice a week, just in Seattle:
- Lake City Contra Dance - Thursday nights, doors open at 7PM
- Emerald City Contra Dance - Friday nights, doors open at 7PM
Check out their pages for more information, including band and caller schedules.
Local Sessions
There are so many local sessions that play music suitable (to some degree) for contra dance!
- New England Jam - Although it’s a bit out of date, the website is also a great archive of contra tunes with sheet music and recordings. You can still contact WB for info about the jam, but it’s no longer held at the Couth Buzzard (it’s at Doug’s house, like most of our Contra Tunes sessions). First Sunday evenings.
- Scottish Fiddle Collective - Scottish (mostly) at Conor Byrne on first Mondays. Free concert from 7-9PM, jam session afterwards. (Hayden is a co-organizer of this session!)
- At the Couth Buzzard:
- Irish Music Jam. First and third Saturdays, starting at noon.
- Quebecois Session. Fourth Saturdays, starting at 1:30PM.
- Rhapsody Project’s Klezmer Jam. First and third Mondays, 7-9PM.
- Wednesday and Thursday evening Irish Sessions at Shawn O’Donnell’s in Fremont. 7:30 - 9:30 PM.
- Slow Irish Session at Dusty Strings. Second Saturdays, 2-4PM.