Local Bands

The Old Sod Band, Ottawa Contra’s original house band, has been playing contra dances for thirty-plus years to the delight of countless dancers. See more at History of Ottawa Contra. The band currently draws on a roster of great local musicians and is known for laying down beautiful fresh grooves for dancing.

Peach Jam is a talented trio of local musicians featuring Duncan Gillis, James Stephens and Paul Hawtin. As well as playing for our local contra dances, the band has played for dances and dance weekends in Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, and other locations. They have gained a loyal following of dancers!

Stolen Goods, founded in 2012, is an Ottawa based group of musicians who play for our local contra dances. They are proud to be a community ‘contraband’, borrowing from other bands to create great dance music. You’ll enjoy their playful and fun sound! Learning new tunes, regular practices, and potlucks are part of the band experience. Stolen Goods is led by Emily Addison and you can reach her for more information at EmilyLAddison@gmail.com

Local Callers