2025 Dance Workshops

Bring the whole family to this joyful workshop of traditional American circle and line dances�"simple, spirited, and easy to learn! No experience or partner needed�"just a willingness to move, laugh, and make memories together.

Join us quarterly in Albuquerque. folkmads.org/family-dances/

Erik Erhardt (Abq, NM) calls contra and English, instructs couples dance, and organizes dance in New Mexico, traveling widely for dancing and community building. In his engaging and entertaining manner, Erik’s teaching is encouraging, clear, and detailed giving all an opportunity to gain a sense of mastery at each person’s level while having something to gain for everyone.

The Albuquerque Megaband is an open community band which provides an opportunity for musicians to get together and play acoustic string band music. The objective is for participants to improve their musical skills while also building a repertoire of tunes such as those that are played for American folk dances. Much of the music is based on traditional banjo and fiddle tunes but the repertoire includes tunes, old and new, representing styles from throughout the U.S., Canada and beyond.

Experience the exhilarating patterns and community spirit of traditional American contra dancing, set to the electrifying live music of the nationally-acclaimed band Notorious. All dances will be taught and prompted�"no partner or experience needed to join the fun!

Join us weekly in Albuquerque and Santa Fe. folkmads.org/events/

Erik Erhardt (Abq, NM) calls contra and English, instructs couples dance, and organizes dance in New Mexico, traveling widely for dancing and community building. In his engaging and entertaining manner, Erik’s teaching is encouraging, clear, and detailed giving all an opportunity to gain a sense of mastery at each person’s level while having something to gain for everyone.

Notorious musicians Eden MacAdam-Somer and Larry Unger bring together traditional and contemporary acoustic music from around the world, creating a dynamic, swinging sound that is sure to get you on your feet.

The word Polka is from the Czech word půlka (half or half step), maybe pertaining to the quick “and 1 and 2” steps rather than a single step per beat, or maybe relating to the cut time or 2/4 tempo.

Polka is one of two 1800s social dances still very much with us. If waltz involved a scandalous amount of physical contact between partners, polka was even worse with its dizzying turns in that closed hold. “No father of a family...can rejoice in seeing his daughter’s waist spanned by the arms of a deboshed (sic) dragoon”

It’s no wonder polka was embraced not only by young members of the elite but also by the middle and working classes. The 1840s was a revolutionary time in Europe, and the polka was a dance of rebellion against the aristocracy. In 1850s Queen Victoria forbad the polka to be danced in her presence, but it was already too late. Polka quickly gained popularity in Prague and other Czech cities and became a sensation in Vienna and Paris by the 1840s. Polka mania hit Europe like tango-mania did later. It was danced widely as a ballroom favorite and began to rival the waltz. It attained such extraordinary popularity that cuisine, clothes (polka dots), hats, and streets were named after it. It spread to classical music: Smetana, the Strauss family, Dvorak and Stravinski composed polkas. From the 1850s through the 1920s polka was part of mainstream American culture. Not until ragtime dances and Charleston took over in the 20’s, did polka wane and become associated mainly with European ethnic minorities.

Polka’s history in the western states is intricately intertwined with our polka-loving neighbor to the south. Mexican empress Carlotta was obsessed with the latest fashions in Europe including dance. Carlotta and Maximillian were polka-holics. She had all the “Gente de Razon” doing fast Viennese waltzes and lively polkas in Chapultepec Park. That tradition made its way north into the southwestern U.S. Polka also moved south into borderland Mexico from what is now the U.S. In the mid 1800s, thousands of German and Czech immigrants settled south Texas, and Mexican farm hands and vaqueros picked up those polka rhythms which are now alive and well in conjunto and Norteño/ranchera music.

From European immigrants and from Mexican courtly tradition, polka spread worldwide in wildly varied music and dance traditions: country and western, Irish ceili, contra dance, Hispanic social dances, bluegrass, punk rock, Klezmer and, of course, myriad Oktoberfests. This is a dance step that is widely useful and a music that is quintessentially joyful, so wear your polka dots, get well-hydrated and prepare to enjoy a dance that combines the intimacy of a waltz with the vivacity of an Irish jig.

Instructor Donna Howell has taught historic and modern couple dances for over 25 years. She currently teaches at the Genoveva Chavez Community Center in Santa Fe, produces a show of dance music on Santa Fe Public Radio KSFR 101.1 FM and can be reached at donna_jhowell@hotmail.com.

If you've watched Pride and Prejudice on TV or seen Sense and Sensibility or Emma at the movies, you have seen English Country dancing. People love English Country dancing because of the hauntingly beautiful music, the grace & elegance as you glide through the moves, and the fleeting connections and flirtations between you, your partner, and the other dancers. Learn these easy but elegant dances, flirt with your partner, channel your inner king or queen, and pretend you are Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy!

Boxwood Consort: Formed in 1988, Boxwood Consort plays English country dance, contra dance, square dance, waltzes, and several other styles of music. Scott Mathis, mandolin and bass; Linda Askew, guitar; Juli Palladino, violin and viola; Jack Klintworth, anglo-concertina; Bill Litchman, clarinet.

Boxwood Consort plays music for English Country and contra dancing as well as a variety of other forms. The group is composed of Scott Mathis, mandolin and bass; Linda Askew, guitar; Gary Mayhew, guitar; Katie Harlow, cello and mandolin; Juli Palladino, violin and viola; Jack Klintworth, concertina; and Doc Litchman, clarinet.

Scottish country dancing is usually done in a four-couple set. The dances are reels, jigs and strathspeys and are great fun and good exercise.

Dram Session is a Scottish band based in the Albuquerque area. We perform traditional Scottish music for dancers and at local festivals. Our music includes modern and very old Scottish jigs, reels, strathspeys, and waltzes, on instruments typically played with Scottish music.

This workshop will explore western traditional square dancing for everyone. These accessible dances will be taught so no one will be left out. You won't need any experience to try a little do-si do; everyone's welcome. Come and have a good time! Live music.

Kris Jensen has been calling modern western square dances since 1991. She calls four local dances each week, has called numerous dances and weekends around the United States, and has been on staff at several national conventions. She has also called traditional squares and contras for NM FolkMADS.

Kris Jensen has been calling modern western square dances since 1991. She calls four local dances each week, has called numerous dances and weekends around the United States, and has been on staff at several national conventions. She has also called traditional squares and contras for NM FolkMADS.

The Central Avenue String Band is mostly an old-time string band but they can turn some bluegrass and country as well. This local band, made up of Braden Frieder, banjo; Jason Sewell, fiddle; Tom Giambra, guitar; and David Debonis, bass will lead a delightful traditional music jam.

A lively Irish Céilí with round, line and square figures danced to reels 'n jigs 'n hornpipe music. Ceili (kay-lee) dances are simple, mildly aerobic and no partner is needed. Beginners are welcome and no experience is required.

Traditional Irish Ceili folk dance classes for beginners of any age are held on Wednesday evenings 6:30 - 8pm at the Edelweiss German-American Club, 4821 Menaul NE. These classes have been on going in Albuquerque since 1985. IT'S FUN - Join us!

Duke City Céilí Band is a group of friends from the local Irish session scene: Harlow Pinson, Cleve Sharp, Chris Carilli, Jessy Stone, Lucy Wang, Elsa Goosen, Andrew MacPhail, and Phil Gaudette. We formed to play dance music for Céilís and added singing shanties for our concert events. Find out more at our Facebook page.

Blues dances are African American folk dances that developed alongside regional Blues musics. They’re rhythmic, expressive, and a lot of fun! Come learn some rhythms, movements, and how to groove to the music with yourself and a partner! No partner needed for class; we’ll rotate partners to give us lots of practice.

Right after, join us to practice your moves at the Blues Dance: NM Style live music set by Felix y Los Gatos!

Felix Gato Peralta is a Chicano singer-songwriter, skilled at vocals, guitar, accordion, and harmonica. Hailing from New Mexico, his music reflects the soul of the Southwest. With songs featured in Netflix and PBS films, Gato's captivating performances have earned him recognition at the Kennedy Center's Arts Across America program.

Aimee Yen has been studying Blues dances since 2006. During that time, she’s studied with elders, performed, and taught. She has also been organizing an international Blues dance weekender in Denver, CO - Mile High Blues - since 2015.

John Vigil has been studying Blues dancing extensively since 2010, and has competed, performed, and taught around the world. He is excited to share this dance with people in his home state.

Felix y Los Gatos is a national touring act with their roots planted firmly in the desert Southwest.

Bandleader Felix Gato Peralta is a dynamic blues musician who seamlessly blends the rich sounds of zydeco with southwestern themes, creating a captivating musical experience for audiences worldwide. With over 20 years of stage experience, Felix has traveled from the dirt roads of New Mexico to international festival stages across Europe and back to the majestic Rocky Mountains, showcasing his talents on button accordion, guitar, and harmonica. Accompanied by the talented Justin Bransford, affectionately known as "The Professor," Felix enhances the sound with stand-up bass and bow. Justin custom-fits every musical situation with his palette of organic tones, achieving a spiritual balance between earth and sky. Together, they create a vibrant vaquero gumbo of songwriting. Their performances transcend mere concerts; they are immersive cultural experiences that celebrate the heart and soul of American roots music.

Come at 5p to the Blues dance lesson to learn some dance moves and bring your friends to this Blues Dance: NM Style … with a little extra flavor thrown in!

Felix y Los Gatos is one of the best party bands in New Mexico. It plays a variety of music from the south and southwest, including zydeco, Americana, blues, funk, rancheras, and cumbias, and has played in every major bar or club in the area.

Felix Gato Peralta is a dynamic blues musician who seamlessly blends the rich sounds of zydeco with southwestern themes, creating a captivating musical experience for audiences worldwide. With over 20 years of stage experience, Felix has traveled from the dirt roads of New Mexico to international festival stages across Europe and back to the majestic Rocky Mountains, showcasing his talents on button accordion, guitar, and harmonica. Accompanied by the talented Justin Bransford, affectionately known as "The Professor," Felix enhances the sound with stand-up bass and bow. Justin custom-fits every musical situation with his palette of organic tones, achieving a spiritual balance between earth and sky. Together, they create a vibrant vaquero gumbo of songwriting. Their performances transcend mere concerts; they are immersive cultural experiences that celebrate the heart and soul of American roots music.

Indian classical dancing started around 200 BCE in India. Traditionally performed as an expressive drama-dance form Indian classical dance also has intricate footwork that accompanies the stories. All styles of Indian classical dance are vibrant and expressive. The workshop will explore hand gestures used to communicate the stories, main characters in the dance forms, rhythmic patterns used and simple footwork.

Trupthi Panickor, the Creative Director of Natyakalanjali, is a professionally trained Indian classical dancer in all the south Indian classical dance styles and the traditional theatrical art forms of Kerala, such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, and Kathakali. Trupthi started dancing at age 4, and has performed across India and the world. She received the Creative Bravos award in 2019 from the Mayor and City of Albuquerque.

Ballet Folklórico Fiesta Mexicana Dance Company is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization committed to creating a lively, inclusive community in Albuquerque. We provide affordable classes for ages 5 and up, welcoming all skill levels. Our programs help dancers grow, express culture, and perform at diverse events. Come celebrate Mexican heritage through dance and learn La Evangelina, a spirited traditional dance from Nuevo León, known for its upbeat polka rhythm, dynamic footwork, and joyful energy. Everyone is welcome!

Alma Arango has been dancing since age five. To improve her folkórico technique, she became a student of and later performed with Maestro Miguel Caro and Fiesta Mexicana in 1996. Alma has since taught dance classes at several local public schools, the National Hispanic Cultural Center, and the South Broadway Cultural Center. Today, Alma serves as an instructor and choreographer for Ballet Folklórico Fiesta Mexicana, Inc. (BFFM), which was founded in 2014 following the passing of Maestro Miguel Caro. BFFM is a multi-generational performing dance group in Albuquerque, New Mexico, offering classes for students ages 5 to adult.

Bachata is a dance, music genre, culture, and gathering. Learn the rich history, cultural roots, and musical secrets that make this dance come alive. In this workshop, you’ll learn to groove with intention, connect deeply with partners, and better understand the music. For beginners and experienced dancers - bring your curiosity and joy!

Debbie Sulca fell in love with dance when she moved to New Mexico in 2023. Her worldview expanded when she visited the Dominican Republic and learned that Bachata is more than just a dance and music genre, but a culture. She’s attended national and international workshops and festivals to learn more about Bachata and its fusions. A bachatera at heart, she remains a student of Bachata to spread the love of this dance and culture to others as an instructor and dance performer.

Metta Dance Collective is New Mexico’s Bachata School! We offer open- level classes in Santa Fe and ABQ. Please visit us and join us for a dance!

Come and learn the basic hand, foot, and body movements that gracefully entwine to tell stories of Hawaii’s history, places, people and traditions… all infused with the spirit of Aloha. Hawaii’s beautiful, joyous cultural dance is suitable for everyone and every age. Native Hawaiian teacher.

The grace and beauty of the hula - Hawaii's art and soul, is alive and well in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Under the direction of Hawaiian native Cindi Kealaulaʻulaʻulaokawaoʻone (which means: The Red Dawn of the Desert) Heffner of Haʻaheo O Hawaiʻi (which means Proud to Be Hawaiian) provides a wonderful taste of aloha through the hula (dance), oli (chant), and mele (songs) of Hawaii. Come and experience the happiness and joy of hula.

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art. A century and a half ago, it was a tool for liberation for the enslaved people of Brazil, but today, it is more of an art form that combines elements of combat, dance, music and playful self expression. With this broad definition comes the opportunity to apply it in many different ways, making it accessible to people of all ages and athletic backgrounds (or lack thereof). Come try it out for yourself!

Come join us for classes - capoeiragirassoluca.com

"Balfolk" is about dancing together in community to beautiful traditional tunes from across western Europe. Join us to learn a mix of easy Breton line dances, French set dances, gentle couple dances, and pan-European mixers. Bal Folk is popular on both sides of the Atlantic, bringing people together to dance old dances with new friends.

In Europe, “Bal Folk” means a dance event featuring traditional dances from across Europe, usually a mix of easy couple dances, mixers, line dances, and more. While many well-known Bal Folk dances come from regions of France, this dance scene also includes treasured couple dances like waltzes, schottisches, and mazurkas, as well as lively mixers that are common in multiple regions. While the dances originate in small village and community dance halls across Europe, the Bal Folk scene brings fresh energy, musical finesse, and passion to remind us all that "folk dance" is what happens when people get together to have fun with movement and music!

Deborah Ungar (clarinet, accordion), Esther Kovari (keyboard, melodica), and Will McDonald (fiddle), are Santa Fe area musicians, who have recently developed an enthusiasm for Balfolk dancing and the lovely music that goes with it.