Hi Homeless, I play in a contra dance band in the Denver, colorado area called "plays well with others",and basically, you need to coordinate with your dance caller as to what he wants played for his dances, as the caller is kind of the leader of the whole thing...he will tell you what type of dance, how long to play etc...he gives signals to the band from the floor as to what he wants...the meter of the tunes that you play must correspond with his dance, and many times he (or she) will make up their own dances...It is a great deal of fun for everyone involved...you can look at the "Colorado Friends of old time music and dance" website also for other info...try cfootmad.org...if that doesnt get you there, write back and i'll find it for you...DK