Berkeley Old-Time Music Convention 2026 @Central
About
In partnership with Berkeley Old-Time Music Convention (BOTMC), Berkeley Public Library is thrilled to host a series of musical programs throughout the Central Library on Saturday, September 19th. Historically, the library has hosted the Children's Concert in our 4th Floor Children's Room. Starting in 2024, the library began hosting a full day of programming in collaboration with BOTMC, including the legendary string band contest, open jam sessions, and discussion panels and forums. Additionally, the library hosts a monthly Old-Time Tune Jam hosted by Berkeley Old-Time Music Convention in the 5th Floor Art & Music area. For information regarding signups for the String Band Contest, click here: https://www.berkeleyoldtimemusic.org/contest For details on performers and presenters, and the schedule for the entire 2026 Berkeley Old-Time Music Convention, please visit the BOTMC website here . SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 10:15-11:00am (4th Floor Children's Nonfiction Room): Family Concert with the Canote Brothers 10:30-11:30am (2nd Floor Mystery Room): Panel Discussion "Black Old-Time Musicians: Perspective" moderated by Darcy Ford-James 12pm-3pm (2nd Floor Mystery Room): String Band Contest | Manning Music Fiddlers (students at Manning Music, some as young as 4!) will open the contest 1pm-2pm (5th Floor Art & Music): BOOK TALK "Custom Made Woman: A Life in Traditional Music" with the author Alice Gerrard 1pm-2pm (1st Floor Teen Room): Youth Jam, led by members of the Manning Mud Stompers 2
