Eric Harris
7909 Tangerine Drive
Tampa, Fl 33637
813-985-3112
Dance Teacher and Contra Caller
There is no greater gift in life than the gift of dance.
12 Years ago I was an avid non-dancer, until one day a good friend twisted my arm to get me to attend my first Contra Dance. Little did I know at that time this would be come a passion for me.
For the next 4 years I attended every Contra Dance in the Bay Area I could. As I danced through the lines I discovered how much I enjoyed the dancing and live music. The rhythm came natural to me. I found I had a true talent for dancing and calling the moves in time to the music. As I progressed to the end of the line I found myself calling out the moves, helping the newer dancers. My fellow dancers encouraged me to get up on the stage and start calling dances. Which I did and I am now very successful at both teaching and calling them.
I am currently the Chairman of the Contra hall for the 2003 Square and Round Dance Convention. I am also a member of both the International Contra Callers Association and the Florida Callers and Cuers Association.
My mentor is Rich Katz, who helped me get started and held my hand through the rough patches. I have attended Callers workshops given by George and Onie Senyck and Don Armstrong.
I have called throughout the state of Florida at Saturday night Contra dances. While most of my dances are called with a band, I have recordings I can use if a band is not available.
In addition to calling and teaching Contra dances, I have called at Weddings, Social gatherings and weekend business functions promoting teamwork and adjustment skills.
My Dancing and Teaching skills consist of: Contra Dancing, Waltz, Circle Mixers, Zydeco, Swing, Cajun, Square Dancing, Round Dancing, Rumba, and Cha Cha.
My passion and enthusiasm for Calling and teaching Dance is incredibly contagious. My goal when hired to call or teach a dance is to look out across the dance floor and see everyone participating, laughing, smiling and having a delightful time.