Erik Sessions (violin) and John Goodin (mandolin & guitar) regularly perform together in a variety of settings, most notably with the nationally known folk dance band Contratopia. In the Decorah, Iowa area they frequently perform as a duo at weddings, anniversaries, family gatherings, church services and in concert settings. They also are founding members of the Western Home String Band, Bear Creek Bluegrass and the Dug Road Trio.
As a duo Erik & John enjoy playing a mixture of fiddle music (American old time, Scandinavian-American old time, Irish, Scottish, English and original tunes), folk-related classical music (especially Baroque pieces) and jazz and standard tunes. In addition to composing much of the music on Contratopia's three CDs, Erik and John have also published the Contratopia Tunebook, a collection of over 50 original waltzes, reels, jigs and airs.
Erik & John have provided unique and memorable music at many weddings, both in churches and in various locations in Winneshiek County (Seed Savers Exchange, Dunning's Spring, Phelps Park). Typically they play prelude music, a processional, a recessional and postlude music. Occasionally they play special music during the ceremony or accompany a vocalist. Below are links to brief demo recordings of some of the pieces that they have played often.