Hi, I'm Peter Giles and I do folk dance calling

I'm an experienced Ceilidh caller and folk dance performer/writer from Cambridge. I've been dancing in various British, European and American styles since university, and teaching for over 15 years.

When I'm not dancing or calling, I enjoy playing the trumpet (when I get the chance!). I am married to Alison, who is also a very experienced caller, you may have seen us out and about at festivals or other dancing events.

But what does a caller do?

The caller at a folk dance stands at the front, choosing and explaining dances to people. My style is inclusive, friendly and approachable. I will adjust the programme to suit the tastes and abilities of the dancers.

Peter is the first person we ask when we get a gig, for all types of events. He calls adeptly and clearly for crowds of all ages, from complete beginners to those who have been dancing for years. He's called with us for weddings, birthdays, student events and more. Whatever the dance, he brings a bounce and joy the event. He also calls brilliantly for various band members in different guises including for Barn dance, Ceilidh, Contra, Playford and French Bal.

Fluidic Folk.

What can I do for your event?

I do lots of different kinds of events for anyone and everyone, including but not limited to

Weddings, birthdays, May Balls and other shindigs
Work events such as summer or Christmas parties
Charity fundraisers
Local events such as village fetes
Burns' night celebrations

Since 2011 we have been holding annual fundraising Ceilidhs in our village. At the start, we had various callers, but quickly realised our absolute favourite callers are Peter and Alison Giles. Now, when we book the next Ceilidh, we make sure it is Peter or Alison (or, hopefully, both!) who will be calling for us and then we know we can look forward to another great Ceilidh.

Nick from Haynes (Bedfordshire).

I also work within the folk dance community at dance clubs, ceilidh series, Playford balls and other events for more experienced dancers.

As well as calling, I offer workshops on a variety of dance styles and topics, from beginners to advanced dancers.

Get in touch to book me for your event.

What have I done in the past?

Far too many ceilidhs to count, such as private parties and ceilidh series
Lots of workshops, including at Halsway Manor alongside dance teacher Kerry Fletcher
2019 Suffolk Playford Ball with Purcell's Polyphonic Party
I help organise the CHIME event, a recurring dance week for American contra dancers held in Ely
I am the regular teacher for Cam-French, which I run together with my wife Alison. I sometimes manage to get the trumpet out for that!

Last night was full of fabulous calling to the most unusual and intricate dances we've had at our Suffolk Playford Balls. Thanks so much for all the hard work.

Maggie, organiser of the Suffolk Playford Ball.

What bands do I work with?

I've worked with a wide variety of bands in the past, here's some of my favourites.

If you're booking me for your event, I'm happy to work with a band you've already booked, or to help you find one to meet your needs.

Peter's experience, professionalism and infectious grooving to the music make him an asset to band and audience alike. He's a pleasure to work with, and a very reassuring presence on stage!

Alice and Carl, Firecrest.

How do you book me for your event?

Send me an email at [email protected], telling me about your event and what you'd like.

You can book just me to work with your own band, or I can bring a band with me.

If I'm not available on your preferred date, I may be able to recommend you to Alison instead, she's also great.