In the Chicagoland English Country Dance community, we believe that great dancing starts with great music. We are incredibly fortunate to work with a pool of talented multi-instrumentalists who understand the nuance, phrasing, and drive required for a perfect set.
Whether it’s a lively jig or a sweeping, elegant waltz, these are the artists you’ll occasionally hear on our floor.
The Cosmic Otters are a mainstay of the Midwestern dance scene, known for their unshakable drive and playful improvisations. They blend a solid rhythmic foundation with inventive harmonies that keep dancers smiling through every figure.
The Lineup: Jonathan Whitall (Keyboards, Violin) and Meg Dedolph (Guitar, Accordion).
The Sound: A mix of British Isles traditions—English, Scottish, and Irish—infused with a modern energy that is as at home in a concert hall as it is a dance floor.
Listen & Connect: You can find their album Indiana Sunrise on Apple Music or follow their updates on Facebook.
Dr. Mary Vanhoozer is a world-class musician whose expertise spans from the piano to the historic hurdy-gurdy. Originally from Edinburgh, Scotland, her deep connection to folk music is evident in every note she plays.
The Sound: Exquisite, scholarly, and soulful. Mary has a unique ability to bridge the gap between early music (Medieval and Renaissance) and the living tradition of English Country Dance.
The Work: She is the author of Playford's Wheel, a beautiful anthology of 70 ECD tunes transcribed for the hurdy-gurdy.
Learn More: Visit her official website at maryvanhoozer.com to see photos and explore her discography.
Aileen is a versatile and beloved presence in the local music scene. Whether she is leading with a fiddle or providing rich accompaniment, her playing is characterized by a "delicate urgency" and a deep understanding of dance phrasing.
The Sound: Lyrical and rhythmic. Aileen’s background in diverse musical traditions allows her to adapt perfectly to the varied moods of an English Country Dance program, from the rowdiest "Playford" tunes to modern compositions.
We are also occasionally joined by these celebrated regional ensembles:
Featuring Maria Terres (fiddle) and Amy McFarland (piano), this duo is famous for creating "way more sound than you thought two instruments could make." They are a powerhouse of the Midwest, bringing a mastery of their instruments and a deep respect for the living tradition of dance.
Learn More: Rare Privilege Bio & Music
True to their name, Old Fezziwig's Band brings the spirit of a Dickensian celebration to our dances. They specialize in multi-part arrangements that add color, depth, and a touch of history to our events.
Learn More: oldfezziwigsband.com
Are you a musician? We are always looking to foster new talent and collaborate with musicians who have a passion for dance music. If you are interested in playing for one of our regular dances, please reach out to us at ChicagolandECD@gmail.com.