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Entering Music

Invitation to Dance

By Stratton Rawson,

Richie English

Published May 22, 2026 at 10:00 AM EDT

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While watching an old film, Roberta, a 1934 musical comedy starring Irene Dunne and Joel McCrea with music by Jerome Kern, Stratton heard a great tune called “I Won’t Dance,” with lyrics by Dorothy Fields. While he sang it, a young Fred Astaire danced, of course. Watching Astaire’s fancy footwork, a question formed in Stratton’s mind, “Can you be dancing when you’re not actually dancing?” Does all music convey an invitation to dance? Best to ask Richie what he thinks.

Entering Music 2026

Stratton Rawson

Stratton Rawson grew up in the Hudson Valley of New York State midway between the Hudson River and the Appalachian Trail in the shadow of some the oldest mountains on earth.

See stories by Stratton Rawson

Richie English

Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Richie English has worked extensively as a pianist, teacher, and composer since childhood. He began studying piano at ten years old with Frieda Manes, and within a year was the youngest piano teacher registered with Denton, Cottier & Daniels in state history.

See stories by Richie English

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