Shawn Brenneman calls with Montage (Sunday Contra)

A contra dance band from Western New York and Pennsylvania, Montage plays an innovative mix of European-based music, rooted in tradition and strongly influenced by modern styles. This trio weaves together everything from swing to Parisian to rootsy Breton folk styles.

Jane Knoeck: Jane's musical beginnings were a mix of classical piano and voice studies. Sometime in the 80's she discovered instrumental folk music and contra dancing. Dance bands soon followed, and she has been playing piano and accordion with a variety of groups ever since, weaving a wide variety of musical influences into her style. Besides Montage, she plays with the Groovemongers and with the trio Riverbend. In addition to contra dance, she also enjoys playing for English and Scottish country dancing.

Rachel Bell: Rachel Bell grew up playing piano and exploring a wide range of folk instruments. Now focusing on accordion and wooden flute, she enjoys a busy gig schedule playing concerts and contra dances with Montage, Tunescape, and the Andrew and Noah VanNorstrand Band. She is admittedly addicted to composing and has a particular love for Quebecois, Scandinavian, and French music.

Tom Santarsiero: Influenced by the musical styles of New England, Southern Appalachia, and French Canada, Tom has developed an eclectic approach to playing mandolin, guitar, banjo and foot percussion with Montage and Riverbend.