Local Bands

In early 2025 the band JET, made up of James Stephens, Emily Addison and Tim Cutts, started delighting Ottawa Contra with there tuneful groove! Since then they have returned many times and are now a favorite of the Ottawa Contra dance scene. 🙂

The Old Sod Band, Ottawa Contra’s original house band, was playing contra dances for thirty-plus years to the delight of countless dancers. See more at History of Ottawa Contra. The band drew on a roster of great local musicians and was known for laying down beautiful fresh grooves for dancing. They last played for Ottawa Contra in December of 2022. Some band members continue in other local contra bands.

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!

Local Callers