Hosted by The Genesee Valley Council on the Arts, this year’s dance will take place on Saturday, April 27 from 7:00-10:00 p.m., at York Central School elementary gym, 2578 Genesee St., Retsof. Music and calling will be provided by Kelly’s Old Timers, and members of the Geneseo String Band led by SUNY Geneseo Professor, Jim Kimball. If you’ve never been to a square dance, come early at 6:30 p.m. and learn the basic steps. No special clothing or prior knowledge is required, and all ages are welcome at this family-friendly, fun evening. Refreshments will be available.

This event is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) with the support of the Office of the Governor and the NYS Legislature. Kelly’s Old Timers, formed in 1950 by Woody Kelly of Perry Center, currently includes Doug Kelly (calling and bass), Eric Kelly (keyboards and vocals), Guy Macaluso (keyboards, vocal, trumpet and guitar), Tom Kwiecien (drums), and Elise Kelly (vocals, guitar, and calling). The Geneseo String Band was formed in 1976 at SUNY Geneseo by Jim Kimball, and plays traditional American fiddle, dance and vocal music at on and off-campus events including clubs, dances, concerts, local churches, historical societies, camps and schools.

Much of their music comes from the Genesee Valley region, documented and recorded by Jim Kimball. Many of Kimball’s recordings have been recently digitized and can be viewed and heard at https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/kimball.