Balfolk with live band: PFM

Balfolk is a dance style consisting of a collection of Western European dances, including both group and couple dances. At the balls, there is always live music, creating an interaction between dancers and musicians where having fun is more important than getting the steps right. You don’t need a fixed partner; at a ball, you can ask anyone to dance, and anyone can ask you to dance. So join in!

Live music by PFM
Trio PFM is a balfolk band from the western part of the country. The band was formed in 2020 and consists of Frans (Physics), Maurits (Aerospace Engineering), and Pieter (Electrical Engineering). Alongside unnecessarily complex beta-inspired compositions, their repertoire also includes straightforward, typical balfolk dances such as circles, swinging scottishes, romantic mazurkas, and a serene gavotte de l’Aven. These are performed on clarinet, violin, guitar, and diatonic accordion. The pieces are mostly original compositions with contributions from all three band members. Maurits van Heijningen plays the violin. Pieter Tijssen plays the guitar and a bit of accordion. Frans Stuurman plays the clarinet.

Dance introduction for beginners
Never danced (balfolk) before? No worries! The evening begins with a dance introduction by Balfolk Zuid-Holland, allowing those who are new to dancing to get familiar with balfolk in this workshop. Afterward, you’ll be able to join in for the entire evening.

The photos were taken by Balfolk Zuid-Holland.