Here's the story on Ramapo Fault, Rockland's old - time string band, serving the Hudson Valley region since 1980. Concerts, square dances, weddings, parties. Open rehearsal for jammers.

Contacts

E-mail ~ (914) 942-0209

Hear us on EZFolk.com

Since this article was written, Elliott has moved to Tennessee.  Frank and Steve continue to perform together and with other regional musicians. 

Program Offerings

Stage Concerts

The Ramapo Fault concert program provides variety and audience involvement, and appeals to many tastes and ages. Our instrumentation of fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar and bass lets us handle a wide range of material. Instrumentals range from foot-stomping fiddle sets through serious production numbers, and may include rags, swing tunes, European and British Isles traditional, or nostalgia from the '40s and '50s. A similar diversity of songs is performed, from Tin Pan Alley novelties through nostalgic sing-a-longs.

Square Dancing

The Ramapo Fault square dance is usually planned for beginning dancers. A short period of general instruction comes before the first dance, and each one is taught step by step. Dances progress in difficulty according to the ability of the group. At least one circle dance is included, and we usually do the most requested dance, the Virginia Reel, and a few waltzes.

Weddings and Parties

The Ramapo Fault party program is tailored to the situation, and can be formal or informal. We realize that your party or event is special, and requires a special touch. We take pride in the fact that we can accommodate ourselves to the needs and wishes of both you and your guests.

Background Music

Whatever your event, Ramapo Fault can provide the musical touch to make it memorable. We have a varied repertoire that can handle many situations, and not intrude on your planned events. You are welcomed to use our sound system for announcements, introductions, and even speeches. Don't overlook the added effect of live music at almost any event!

Sound System

Ramapo Fault provides a 500 watt sound system for any program. It requires one 15 amp outlet (normal house current). We recommend sound reinforcement for any program with attendance of 30 or more, and for all outdoor programs.

Back to the Top

An RFSB Set List

At last count, the Ramapo Fault repertoire exceeded 700 tunes and songs! Our square dance list includes many of the well - known fiddle tunes. We're constantly adding to our collection of favorite old songs. We like this music, and you can tell!

Back to the Top

Ramapo Fault Song

Song by Dick Duncan for Ramapo Fault String Band, c. 1980. Dick was a band member at that time.

We're Ramapo Fault, we're Ramapo Fault
Mistakes are not our game
But when they occur you can be sure
The Ramapo Fault's to blame, The Ramapo Fault's to blame
We're jus' an old string band from the Hudson highlands
Don't play no jazz or soul
But when the earth quakes along the Ramapo break
We do rock and roll, yes we just rock and roll

CHORUS:
Where it's tough to fret the strings and it's hard to hold a bow
When the earth is shudderin' and shakin' down below
Some say that as musicians we're not worth our salt
We're just mortal men doin' the best we can on the shaky Ramapo Fault

Some say our music's queer due to Rollin' Rock beer
'N other well fermented malts
But don't blame the beer if this sound you hear
Just blame that ol' Ramapo Fault, that shaky Ramapo Fault
We're Ramapo Fault, we're Ramapo Fault
We're in it for the money and the fame
But when the plates shift in the Ramapo rift
Our tunes all sound the same, our tunes all sound the same

CHORUS

When mistakes occur to us we never make a fuss
Or hang our heads in shame
But if we're lookin' at the ground when you hear this sound
You'll know the Ramapo Fault's to blame, the Ramapo Fault's to blame
We're Ramapo Fault, we're Ramapo Fault
We're in it for the money and the fame
And we know damn well when we sound like hell
That the Ramapo Fault's to blame, the Ramapo Fault's to blame

CHORUS

This verse was added by Dick for a Ramapo Fault reunion jam.
We're Ramapo Fault, we're Ramapo Fault
We're older and wiser men
Back here playin' where the earth does it's swayin'
Back together again, back together again

Back to the Top

Here's to Good Listenin'!

E-mail ~ (845) 942-0209