GENESEO, N.Y. – The Geneseo String Band will be hosting and performing at their square dance event on Nov. 7 from 7 - 10 p.m. in the MacVittie College Union Ballroom.
Geneseo String Band Director James Kimball noted that the event is “very much a community square dance.”
“We have been doing these dances for years and can usually expect a good mix of college and community folks of all ages,” said Kimball. He added that the traditional method of teaching and calling the dances allows beginners to pick them up easily.
Kimball explained that the musical pieces performed are classic, “old time” ones that have been part of Geneseo’s culture for decades.
“They are lively, easily learned, very social and always danced to live music – mostly to old-time country songs or fiddle tunes,” said Kimball.
According to Kimball, despite the traditional nature of the dances, square dance events have decreased in the region. This, however, makes these Geneseo String Band dances all the more memorable.
“Our two campus dances––this one and another in February––have become special attractions to students as well as local families, high school or church groups and old timers who grew up with these same square dances,” Kimball said.
Apart from celebrating traditional song and dance, the event focuses on bringing the Geneseo community together for a night of shared entertainment.
“It will be a fun, very social time, including good exercise and lively music,” said Kimball.
The Geneseo String Band square dance event is free and open to the public.
News release written by College Communications intern Megan Tomaszewski.
Media Contact:
David Irwin
Senior Manager of College Communications
(585) 245-5529
Irwin@geneseo.edu