Michigan Dance Heritage, Inc., 501(c)3 was born in 1987 when leaders in music, song, and dance from across Michigan met and began working together to create a rich educational resource in these traditional arts. They wanted to ensure the future of this cultural heritage in our state.

Over the next two decades MDH encouraged and supported traditional music and dance by providing grants for events in communities, schools and colleges across the state. The Les Raber fund helped musicians and dance leaders further their education in traditional music and dance skills. Several popular and accomplished dance musicians performing today attended our dance camps as children, honing their musical skills. (Think of the Pannings, Brad Battey, and Les Raber, names you may know.)

We are best known for our two annual dance camps, Trillium Twirl and MDH Fall Camp, going strong for more than 30 years. These camps bring nationally-known and Michigan callers and musicians together to offer workshops and dance programs. Enthusiastic participants come from across Michigan, neighboring states, and Canada.

It remains our purpose to keep traditional music and dance alive in Michigan, to be discovered and enjoyed by people of all ages. We want to encourage the next generation of musicians and dancers to continue this joyful tradition.

After 30-plus years of amazing energy and work, our Michigan dance community is in a state of generational change. This is the time to draw on the experience we have gained and to help new dancers and musicians become leaders who will continue the traditions we all value so much.