The Eugene Folklore Society (EFS) is a nonprofit, volunteer-run organization
dedicated to furthering the understanding, appreciation, and performance
of traditional folk arts by providing music and dancing around the area. EFS
sponsors folk-related concerts and dances, potluck dinners and other relevant
events that members are willing to sponsor or host. All EFS events are announced
in the EFS newsletter, in e-mail notifications, as well as in the local papers,
and KLCC and KRVM radio.
BENEFITS
Members receive the EFS newsletter from September to June. The newsletter announces all EFS events as
well as community and regional events and activities. EFS members also receive a discount on tickets to all
events sponsored by EFS, and some reciprocal discounts with other regional folklore society and dance groups
in Oregon, including: the Corvallis Folklore Society and Portland Country Dance Community.
EFS members are also eligible to place a free classified ad once per year.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership in the Eugene Folklore Society is open to all who wish to support the goals of furthering traditional folk arts, music and dance.
Individual membership is $10 per year; Family membership is $9 per adult (at the same address).
To join, contact the Membership Coordinator
or send a check made out to EFS to: PO Box 1645, Eugene, OR 97440.
CONTRA DANCES
Held on most second and fourth Saturdays of the month during the school year (September-June).
Contras and squares are taught by a caller and feature live music and good
healthy fun. Neither partners nor experience are required.
SPECIAL DANCES
Often during the season, special dances will be booked. These may include swing, cajun, zydeco, and occasional out of town contradance callers and musicians.
THE ANNUAL CASCADE CONTRAS DANCE CAMP
Takes place in April, at SKY Camp, near Fall Creek, Oregon, a weekend of dancing, music, and workshops throughout the weekend.
THE ANNUAL MIDSUMMER MADNESS DANCE AND MUSIC CAMP
Takes place in July, at Camp White Branch, on the old McKenzie Hwy in Oregon, a weekend of dancing, music, and various recreation opportunites throughout the weekend.
CONCERTS
Feature regionally and nationally known artists.
The Concert Committee is looking for someone interested in taking over to
schedule concerts. The music series is currently on hold until volunteer(s)
are found.
BLAGO SCHOLARSHIP FUND
EFS members may apply for scholarships to dance camps, music camps,
or workshops. A maximum of $50 will be given per event; however the amount
awarded cannot exceed the cost of the event. A total of 15 scholarships
will be offered per year. EFS members must apply at least 2 months before
the event. Recipients of the award will be expected to reciprocate by
participating in various volunteer opportunities for the EFS community, as
suggested on the application form. The
form
will be available on the EFS website and at EFS dances.
The Eugene Folklore Society is coordinated by a Board of Directors, who are an elected body of member volunteers.
Meetings are held once a month and EFS members are always welcome. Ideas, encouragement, feedback,
and help from members and the community, in whatever form, are essential for the continued availability
of EFS events.