[2] He was a seminal figure in the contra dance folk revival in the United States in the mid to late 20th century.
Sannella devoted much of his adult life to traditional New England dance as a caller, choreographer, dancer, and leader.
He began calling professionally in 1946 and organized dance series in Cambridge, Westport Point, and Concord, Massachusetts, and in his final years, North Whitefield, Maine.
Sannella was long involved with the New England Folk Festival Association (NEFFA) as a leader and board member.
He served as president of NEFFA and the North of Boston Callers Association and was also on the board of the nationally-oriented Country Dance and Song Society.