Two years ago, New England Conservatory revived the tradition of the barn dance — and we don't even own a barn! NEC's Contemporary Improvisation department hosts these interactive events, which we now offer on a regular basis.
Tonight's dance celebrates Reunion weekend and its focus on the 40th anniversary of the CI program, but all are welcome. Tonight will also be very different from previous dances, which have had a caller and Appalachian fiddle music. Nonetheless, here's a video from one of those past dances, so you can see how fun it is to dance in Brown Hall!
Music at tonight's dance comes from three very different CI ensembles: American Music, Jewish Music, and World Music. Dance leaders are Judy Bressler '81 DP and Chris Ricciotti, one of the leading practitioners of gender-free dance calling. It's a way to show the range of this innovative program of study during its anniversary year, as well as to herald the launch of Contemporary Improvisation studies for Preparatory and Continuing Education students.
Are you an NEC faculty member or student who is giving a school concert? Submit your artist and repertoire information now!
VIRGIL THOMSON