This is a compilation of video clips from recent barn dances, in such venues as a golf club, a village hall, a centre for adults with learning difficulties, and so on.
The music is being played by MIDIband (in other words, my PSR3000 keyboard). I played all the tunes myself, recording them as MIDI data, which is stored on a USB memory stick.
Using the keyboard instead of CDs or MP3s gives me tremendous flexibility, particularly when it comes to adjusting the speed (tempo) to suit the audience.
That came in especially handy when I was doing a dance for adults with learning difficulties, some of whom were in wheelchairs.
I can also play "live" if someone requests a tune that I haven't sequenced yet.
I've even been known to accompany my own singing between dances, but don't tell everyone!
Ian Carter calling with Kellys Heroes
Here's a very short video of the fantastic Celtic band, Kellys Heroes. From time to time, they ask me to call for them, and it's such a pleasure!
Derbyshire Volunteers at the Derby Festé Grand Ceilidh
Here's an idea of what it was like on Friday 4th September 2009 on Derby Market Place.
About 2000 people came to listen and dance to the music of the Derbyshire Volunteers, with "yours truly" Ian Carter, the Caller.
It was terrific fun - we started at 9 pm and would have continued till 11 if rain hadn't stopped play.
Videos, Music and Photos
