Join us this November 22Come dance and enjoy of your favorite Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cumbia and more.*** Doors open 7:30pm*** Beginner friendly Salsa on1 Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano*** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am*** Spinning your favorite music DJRonAdv Tickets $16Door $25ASHKENAZ1317 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley CaParking is available in the REI parking lot across the street after 9 pm. At other times, street parking is available on Gilman, San Pablo and neighboring streets. Please respect Ashkenaz's neighbors and keep voices down as you walk through the neighborhood, especially late at night.FOR MORE INFO CONTACT <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:krdance.official@gmail.com">krdance.official@gmail.com</a>

RICO Fridays: Latin dance

<h1>Doors at 7:30 PM / Show at 8 PM </h1>The 17-piece Morchestra jazz orchestra has been a going concern for over 10 years, performing at the California Jazz Conservatory, La Peña, Ashkenaz, Bach Dancing and Dynamite, Pacifica Performances, and several times as part of Berkeley's Music in the Parks series. Led by its Lone Arranger, guitarist Tony Corman, the band features top Bay Area musicians, and has welcomed a series of distinguished guest starts including Jackie Ryan, Clairdee, Nicholas Bearde, Roger Glenn, and Masha Campagne. <h2>TICKETS:</h2>GA Presale: $21GA DoS: $25Student (at door with ID): $12(Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

The Latin Side of the Morchestra

Thank you for supporting our Bachata events and classes at Ashkenaz. We hope you can join us Tuesday November 26 for our 9th annual FREE Bachata class and social. Let’s keep on dancing!RSVP and spread the word.Bachata class 7pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier StefanoSocial Dancing 8:30pm top Midnight - DJRon in the mix!Performances at 10pm

FREE Bachata class and Social- Thanksgiving Tuesday

Doors @ 7:30PMShow @ 8PMJoin us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the amazing Anna Elva's 40th birthday with a musical extravaganza! Anna, a powerhouse drummer and beloved member of our music community, will take the stage for a special night of rhythm and soul, leading an all-star lineup through two legendary musical worlds: The Band’s “The Last Waltz” and Grateful Dead. Expect electrifying performances of classic hits, jam sessions that will take you on a cosmic journey, and heartfelt tributes to these iconic bands. Whether you’re a Deadhead, a fan of The Last Waltz, or just here to celebrate Anna's milestone birthday, this show will be one for the ages. Don’t miss the chance to groove, dance, and honor Anna Elva's incredible spirit in true rock ‘n’ roll fashion. Let’s make this a birthday bash to remember!

Anna's 40th Grateful Waltz

CLOSED

BACHATANightz one of the oldest Bachata Socials in the East Bay!December 5*** Doors open 7:30pm *** Beginner friendly Bachata Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano *** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am *** DJ Ron in the mixAdvance Ticket $16 / At door $25

BACHATA Nightz

<h2>Doors @ 7:00PM</h2><h2>Beginner Cajun/Zydeco Dance Lesson @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show &amp; Social Dancing @ 8:00PM</h2>Mark St. Mary's Louisiana Blues &amp; Zydeco Band is a 5 member band that plays traditional Louisiana blues and zydeco music. Dubbed the "Delta King" and awarded the "Best Zydeco Band" in 2007 by Bay Area Blues Society, Mark's been playing his traditional style of zydeco music since the age of 13. His music is best described as infectious - once the band starts playing, the crowd doesn't want him to stop, yelling "Play One More" over and over! Mark sings in both English &amp; Creole French. The band prides themselves in being able to give the crowd a variety, zydeco, blues, R&amp;B and even a lil' country. Followers of this music loves the excitement it brings and the joy they get from dancing to it, be it a waltz, two-step, line dance or a down home flat-foot zydeco! The band plays festivals, Mardi Gras, weddings, anniversaries, private parties, corporate events, New Years and/or whatever you like. With Mark's gift of gab, he comes prepared to really put on a show, making you not wanna sit down. We guarantee to keep you entertained, keeping the skirt-tails floppin' and the cowboy boots stompin'. LET'S HAVE A PARTY YA'LL!!! ET TOI!! ET TOI!!

Mark St. Mary

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>The Caribbean Allstars are pioneers in the Bay Area reggae scene and longtime regulars at Ashkenaz. The ensemble, whose geographical roots range from Jamaica and South America to West Africa and the U.S., began joining together their musical forces and international backgrounds during the early 1970s. Out of such predecessors as Obeah and the Sons of Creation, the Caribbean Allstars were formed and became the founding fathers of Bay Area roots reggae. Although many musicians have come through the band since its founding, it has long been guided by its director, Trinidad-born drummer Hugh “Sweetfoot” Maynard. The Caribbean Allstars not only play Jamaican reggae with a traditional electric bass-drums-guitars-keyboards lineup, but also add steel drums to bring in South Caribbean calypso and soca styles of Trinidad and Tobago, producing rhythms that drive listeners to the dance floor. Over the years the band has performed with an array of talent sitting in, including Taj Mahal, Narada Michael Walden, and Carlos Santana. Santana played on their second album and introduced them as “my favorite band” at the 1987 Bay Area Music Awards (Bammies). The Allstars were featured on Ashkenaz’s 30th anniversary CD and have for many years been one of the core bands of the extended Ashkenaz world music and dance community.

Caribbean Allstars

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show at 8:00PM</h2><iframe-embed src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GWUhvHfxN00?si=0teIq-MSt-BeZZXL" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="true" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" height="315" width="560" style="" metaposition="flex-start" metatype="youtube"></iframe-embed>Gamelan Sekar Jaya (GSJ) fosters artistic exchange between Bali and the United States through residencies, workshops, performances, and the creation of innovative new works for music and dance. Founded in 1979, the company is based in the San Francisco Bay Area and specializes in the performing arts of Bali. GSJ has been called “the finest Balinese gamelan outside of Indonesia” by Indonesia’s Tempo Magazine, and the group has performed in venues ranging from New York’s Symphony Space to LA’s Hollywood Bowl to remote village squares in Bali.

Gamelan Sekar Jaya

<h2>Doors at 5:00PM</h2><h2>Show 5:30PM - 6:30PM Sacred Music Fellowship’s Interfaith Holiday Concert &amp; Jam Join in song with Christian, Jewish, and Muslim music leaders!</h2> Kick off the holiday season singing and playing music together! Join us for an inspiring and participatory evening of music and unity at Sacred Music Fellowship’s Interfaith Holiday Concert &amp; Jam, a unique gathering celebrating the universal language of song. People of all ages and backgrounds are invited to come together in harmony as spiritual leaders from diverse traditions lead us in songs of love, hope, and connection.Lyrics and chords will be projected throughout the event, ensuring everyone can join in, whether you're a seasoned singer, musician, or simply a lover of music.Featuring music leaders from Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and secular groups including: Congregation Netivot Shalom, College Avenue Presbyterian Church, Islamic Sufi Mevlevi Order of America, SingJam, Congregation Beth Israel, Epworth United Methodist Church, Sufi Ruhaniat International, Chochmat HaLev, Berkeley Hillel, The Big Effin Sing, and more!Whether you love to sing, play, or just want to listen, this event is an opportunity to connect deeply with others and explore the healing power of music.When: Sunday, December 15th, 2024 5:00 - 6:30 pm Where: Ashkenaz, 1317 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley, CA 94710 Tickets: $15-20All are welcome—bring your instruments, your voice, and your open heart!<iframe-embed src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFO5bdVB3sY?si=6Yr4GKfrPDflHnSg" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="true" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" height="315" width="560" style="" metaposition="flex-start" metatype="youtube"></iframe-embed>

Interfaith Holiday Concert & Jam

<h2>Doors at 7:30 PM / Country Two Step Lesson at 8 PM / Show at 8:30 PM</h2>We're bringing you the best of country music and dancing in the Bay Area!The big guy from out West and larger than life energy (he’s also 6’5’) performer, guitarist, singer, banjoist, songwriter, composer, entertainer, musical historian and teacher Mitch Polzak wears his heart on his sleeve and his playing in his heart.Polzak performs rockabilly and 60’s country music with the religious fervor of Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash and delivers a Honky Tonk ballad with the sincerity of Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings. Mitch will bring a room to a fevered pitch of joyous energy on the dance floor and then tell you a story in a song like two old friends sitting at a kitchen table at midnight.Join us for a dance lesson followed by a great night of country music and dancing -- featuring the best country artists in the Bay!TICKETS: STUDENT discount price: $10 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready) GA Presale: $16 GA DoS: $20(Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

Country Night with Mitch Polzak & the Royal Deuces

<h1>Doors at 7:30 PM / Swing Dance Lesson at 8 PM / Show at 8:30 PM </h1>Want to get your party started? Steve Lucky &amp; Miss Carmen Getit are a recipe for good times. Lucky’s soulful piano and vocals, and the vivacious Miss Getit’s vocals and acclaimed guitar shredding create a powerful sound that appeals to fans both young and old. They perform as a 6 piece band, Steve Lucky &amp; the Rhumba Bums, with 2 saxes, bass, drums, piano, guitar and vocals. Swingin' Vintage Jazz, Sultry Blues, Jumpin' R&amp;B, original tunes and delicious covers.Described as a “perfect union of skilled and fueled merrymaking" (SF Bay Guardian), they thrive at engaging an audience. Muddy Waters' legendary blues/boogie pianist Pinetop Perkins called Miss Getit his "favorite guitarist". <h2>TICKETS:</h2>STUDENT discount: $15 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready)GA Presale: $21GA DoS: $25(Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

Steve Lucky & The Rhumba Bums

Balkan New Years Eve

<h2>Doors @ 7:00PM</h2><h2>Beginner-friendly Cajun/Zydeco Dance Lesson @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>Motordude Zydeco return once again to Ashkenaz! Based in Oakland, CA, Motordude Zydeco plays the music of South Louisiana with soul, grit, and funky-in-your-face style Zydeco music. Named after a racehorse owned by zydeco legend Bozoo Chavis, MotorDude brings the real deal to the Ashkenaz dance floor! For over 15 years, founding members Billy Wilson (accordion/vocals), Lloyd Meadows (RubBoard/Vocals) Dennis Calloway (Bass)Willy Jordan (Drums/Vocals), and Ian Lamson (Guitar), have been entertaining the Bay Area Zydeco scene.

Motordude Zydeco

Scott Guberman takes the lead this week with talented friends!Wednesday, November 20 DOORS: 7:30PM SHOW: 8:00PMTICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Ashkenaz Grateful Dead Night with Scott Guberman

Dodana & Jam Session

<h2>Doors at 7:30 PM / Country Two Step Lesson at 8 PM / Show at 8:30 PM</h2>We're bringing you the best of country music and dancing in the Bay Area!The big guy from out West and larger than life energy (he’s also 6’5’) performer, guitarist, singer, banjoist, songwriter, composer, entertainer, musical historian and teacher Mitch Polzak wears his heart on his sleeve and his playing in his heart.Polzak performs rockabilly and 60’s country music with the religious fervor of Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash and delivers a Honky Tonk ballad with the sincerity of Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings. Mitch will bring a room to a fevered pitch of joyous energy on the dance floor and then tell you a story in a song like two old friends sitting at a kitchen table at midnight.Join us for a dance lesson followed by a great night of country music and dancing -- featuring the best country artists in the Bay!TICKETS: STUDENT discount price: $10 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready) GA Presale: $16 GA DoS: $20(Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>Already being hailed as “the next Woody Guthrie,” Nashville resident Crys Matthews is among the brightest stars of the new generation of social justice music-makers. A powerful lyricist whose songs of compassionate dissent reflect her lived experience as what she lightheartedly calls "the poster child for intersectionality," Justin Hiltner of Bluegrass Situation called Matthews’s gift "a reminder of what beauty can occur when we bridge those divides." She is made for these times and, with the release of her new, hope-fueled, love-filled social justice album Changemakers, Matthews hopes to take her place alongside some of her heroes in the world of social-justice music like Sweet Honey in the Rock and Holly Near. Of Matthews, ASCAP VP &amp; Creative Director Eric Philbrook says, “By wrapping honest emotions around her socially conscious messages and dynamically delivering them with a warm heart and a strong voice, she lifts our spirits just when we need it most in these troubled times.”Matthews began performing in 2010 but cemented her acclaim at Lincoln Center as the 2017 NewSong Music and Performance Competition grand prize winner. That year she also released two new projects — her album of thoughtful songs on love and life called The Imagineers, and her EP called Battle Hymn for an Army of Lovers, which tackles social justice themes. Matthews also won the People’s Music Network’s Social Justice Songs contest at the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance. Loyal fans quickly followed as Matthews racked up performances at large music festivals and prestigious venues across the country including the Sundance Film Festival, Kerrville Folk Festival, and locally at venues like The Birchmere, The Hamilton, Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center, and Jammin' Java. In her TedTalk about difficult conversations called "Sing, Don't Shout — An Alternative Approach" Matthews spoke about being born and raised in a small town in southeastern North Carolina by an A.M.E. preacher, and how she witnessed the power of music from an early age. A former drum major and classically trained clarinetist turned folk singer, Matthews is using her voice to answer Dr. Martin Luther King's call to be "a drum major for justice."“I believe in hope,” Matthews said. “As a social-justice songwriter, it is my duty to keep breathing that hope and encouragement into the people who listen to my music.” And, from the title track to the last track, Changemakers does just that all while tackling some heavy topics like immigration, the opioid crisis, Black Lives Matter, and gun safety to name a few. “Ani DiFranco said, “People used to make records as in a record of an event,"” said Matthews, “so I hope that these songs will serve as a time capsule, a record of the events of the last four years and what it was like to live through them.” Crys Matthews's thoughtful, realistic, and emotional songs speak to the voice of our generation and remind us why music indeed soothes the soul.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.crysmatthews.com/">https://www.crysmatthews.com/</a>

Crys Matthews & Julian Taylor

<h2>Doors @ 7PM</h2><h2>Beginner-friendly Cajun/Zydeco dance lesson @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8PM</h2>The Midnite Ramblers are Agi Ban (Aux Cajunals) on fiddle and vocals, Mark Marcin on accordion and fiddle (Mark also plays occasionally with The California Bluerunners), Karen Celia Heil (Knuckle Knockers, KC &amp; the MooNshine Band and Plaid Strangers. - Karen is a San Francisco Bay Area musician who plays Old-time and Cajun music on fiddle and guitar), and Allegra Thompson (Thompsonia and Aux Cajunals) on upright bass and vocals. For our show on November 14 at Ashkenaz we will be joined by Michaelle Goerlitz on Drums (Michaelle is a regular member of New Orleans group ‘Chelle &amp; Friends and pan Latin ensemble Sudamericanto) Bring your dancing shoes and join the Midnite Ramblers for lively two steps, soulful blues and haunting waltzes.Tickets: Advance: $16 Day of Show: $20 Student discount price: $12 (Only at door—have your student ID ready)

Midnite Ramblers

<h2>Wednesday, November 5th</h2><h2>Doors at 7:00PM Show at 8:00PM</h2>A tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done beforeDoors at 7:00PM Show at 8:00PMAshkenaz is all ages, all the time. Kids and minors are always welcome. Those 12 or under are admitted FREE (unless otherwise noted).

Stu Allen & Mars Hotel

<h2>Friday, November 8th</h2><h2>Doors at 7:00PM Show at 8:00PM</h2>A tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done beforeTickets: Advance: $36 Day of Show: $40 Student discount price: $20 (Only at door—have your student ID ready)Doors at 7:00PM Show at 8:00PMAshkenaz is all ages, all the time. Kids and minors are always welcome. Those 12 or under are admitted FREE (unless otherwise noted).

BACHATANightz one of the oldest Bachata Socials in the East Bay!November 7*** Doors open 7:30pm *** Beginner friendly Bachata Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano *** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am *** DJ Ron in the mix Students with Valid ID $15 at door. Ticket service fees apply.

Bachata Nightz

<h2>Doors at 6:30 PM / Balkan Dance Lesson at 7 PM / Dance 7:30-10 PM</h2>Teaching by Nadav Nur and Susie ShoafDiscover the captivating world of Balkan folk dancing at our monthly event, where we revive the '70s-style Berkeley folk dance scene to the exhilarating rhythms of the Balkans. Join us as we pay homage to the spirit of Ashkenaz founder David Nadel, who first introduced Balkan folk dancing in 1973 by dancing to recorded music that captures the essence of that era.This event is a heartfelt tribute to David Nadel and the music and dance that made Ashkenaz an award-winning dance club. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Balkan music or a newcomer eager to learn traditional Balkan folk dances, this gathering is for you. Dance teachers and fellow participants will be on hand to instruct and guide you through a diverse array of dances spanning Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, the Roma culture, and more.Expect a mix of fun, easy, and more challenging dances. Come and be a part of this vibrant celebration of Balkan culture through dance and music!TICKETS: GA: $10 (Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

Balkan Night

<h2>Doors @6:45 pm Tango class @ 7:00 pm (back studio) Milonga begins @ 8:00 pm Live music begins @ 8:30 pm </h2>Bandonegro is a world-class tango orchestra, among the most original and recognizable performers of this genre. The ensemble presents traditional Argentine tango, tango nuevo, and creates its own compositions with elements of jazz. The musicians constantly strive to discover and showcase the diverse facets of tango. They quickly developed their own musical language, encouraging listeners to experience the genre in a completely new light. In their music, tango gains new life, continuously inspiring next generations of listeners. They have an extraordinary passion, fresh sound, and unique style that is perfect for dancing.All four members of Bandonegro were born in Poznań, Poland, and have been playing music together since they were young teens.&nbsp; The musicians are Michał Główka, (bandoneon), Jakub Czechowicz (violin), Marek Dolecki (piano), and Marcin Antkowiak (double bass).&nbsp; The band has performed all over the world, and this is their second US tour.The tango class is taught by Luz Castineiras, a Bay Area tango teacher who was born and raised in Buenos Aires.&nbsp; Luz&nbsp;is a heart-and-soul tango dancer, and her dance communicates her strength and knowledge of music.​&nbsp;In her classes, students are encouraged to explore tango and dance techniques, connection and musicality.&nbsp;&nbsp;She creates a friendly, inviting atmosphere for learning and always looks for active feedback from students.Tango DJ Diego Zubiat plays music for dancing during the breaks.$21 in advance $25 at the door $12 with student ID (at the door)

Bandonegro Tango Orchestra

<h2>Doors @ 7:00PM</h2><h2>Dance Lesson @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>OSR performs samba de gafieira, funk and forró music from Brazil. Their horn section-forward sound has been moving audiences since 2019 when they premiered at SF Carnaval. Featuring vocalists Catia Lúnd, Katiana Vilá and Brian Moran and some of the Bay's best musicians, OSR performs classic Brazilian music from the 60's - 80's with original arrangements and fun surprises.

Oakland Samba Revue

Sharpen your swords and light the beacons—it’s time for the One Square Dance to Rule Them All! The second-ever LotR Square Dance Costume Party is coming to Ashkenaz! Dust off your elf ears and hobbit feets, adjust your elven cloaks and gather your fellowship for a night of merry-making straight out of Middle-earth.&nbsp; Skillet Licorice will take on their shadowy alter-egos, Molly Ringwraith &amp; Second Breakfast Club, bringing you tunes hotter than Mount Doom. With square dance calling from Robin ‘Gandalf the Gray’ Fischer and Evie ‘Gandalf the White’ Ladin, this night will be so epic even Smaug will be jealous. Trust us, this party will be precious—YOU SHALL NOT PASS... on this square dance!No costume required, but if you want to show up as an orc, elf, or even a Stormtrooper, we won't cast you into the fires of Mordor. All dances taught. No experience necessary! Everybody welcome.&nbsp;And if square dancing isn’t your thing, fear not! An old-time/bluegrass jam will be happening in the back studio, so bring your fiddle, banjo, or mandolin and join the fun. Doors at 7:30 PM / Show at 8 PM This event is also a fundraiser for Hurricane Helene Relief and Recovery Efforts going on right now. Funds donated will ensure that frontline nonprofits have the resources they need for the critical early response and continuing recovery. 80% of all proceeds from this event are being donated to Hurricane Helene relief via the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina. If you'd like to make an additional donation go to this website:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://cfwnc.org/initiatives/hurricane-helene-relief-and-recovery">https://cfwnc.org/initiatives/hurricane-helene-relief-and-recovery</a>Lord of the Rings Halloween Costume PartyPerformance by Colonel Longshanks &amp; The Back on the Menu BoysCalling by Robin Fischer &amp; Mike Lewinksi Skillet Licorice is the latest project from San Francisco Bay Area roots-music luminaries Elise Engelberg and Matt Knoth.Fiddle: Elise EngelbergGuitar: Matt KnothMandolin: Rowan McCallisterBanjo: Jordan RuyleBass:&nbsp; Allegra Thompson TICKETS:STUDENT discount price: $10 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready)GA Presale: $16GA DoS: $20

Lord of the Rings Square Dance

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show &amp; Social Dancing at 8:00PM</h2>Way more fun than trick or treating!&nbsp; Join the Death and Taxes Swing Band at Ashkenaz in Berkeley for something a little bit different on Halloween Night.&nbsp;The Death and Taxes Swing Band is a crazy amalgamation of seasoned professionals and overly enthusiastic college students. Half jazz band, half rock band, the Death and Taxes Swing Band brings a fresh look to hosting a swing dance.&nbsp;At Ashkenaz from 8 - 10 pm on Oct 31, there will be a dance lesson followed by a wild swing dance. Come in costume or come casually.&nbsp;The Death and Taxes Swing Band was formed as a reaction to the cancellation of a local college program and had their first show at Ashkenaz a year and a half ago. Since then the group has been bringing out big crowds all over the Bay Area and as far afield as Florida, Singapore and Bali. The cast of this wild ensemble features a diverse group of people, from local Oakland Symphony Orchestra members to young guns still working on graduating college.&nbsp;“The Death and Taxes Band generates pure excitement and a swingin’ good time.” Bay County Coastal Newspaper

Death & Taxes Swing Band

<h2>Doors at 7:00PM Show at 8:00PM </h2>A tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done beforeAshkenaz is all ages, all the time. Kids and minors are always welcome. Those 12 or under are admitted FREE (unless otherwise noted).

<h2>Doors @ 7:00PM</h2><h2>Beginner Cajun/Zydeco Dance Lesson @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show &amp; Social Dancing @ 8:00PM</h2>Pronounced I - KO - YAH-YAH - since 2013, Iko YaYa's been flooding dance halls with their Louisiana-influenced music that gets folks on their the feet – what they like to call “swamp ‘n roll!” Enjoy a full plate of their favorite New Orleans flavored dance gumbo—blues &amp; boogie, Cajun/Zydeco, R&amp;B, Second Line, and even a lil’ Country—all delivered with a Mardi Gras vibe! From the San Francisco Bay Area, Iko YaYa’s members are longtime veterans of some other bay area favorite dance bands, including California Cajun Orchestra, SwingThing, CZ &amp; The Bon Vivants, The Poyntlyss Sistars, Medicine Ball Band, and Mark St. Mary. With Cheryl McBride, Jim Scott, Sam Siggins, Lance Houck, Andre Nigoghossian &amp; Susan Copperman

Iko Ya Ya: Halloween Zydeco Dance

Honoring the life of Prince Joni Haastrup - son of a King and a big star in Nigeria moving in the Afro Beat, Afro Funk music scene with the likes of Fela Kuti, Hugh Masakela and others, performing primarily on vocals, percussion and keyboards. He was also a member of English rocker Ginger Bakers Airforce. You can find his music on YouTube and Spotify under his name and Monomono whose members included our own Baba Ken Okulolo as a driving force propelling those amazing grooves.&nbsp;The event is a potluck open to the public with donations encouraged and of course a no host bar. Please include it in the calendar and your marketing efforts.&nbsp;

Gathering for Joni Ademola Haastrop

Join us this October 25th at our annual costume party at Rico Fridays. Come dance and enjoy of your favorite Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cumbia and more.<hr>BEST COSTUME TAKES $100 Cash!*** Doors open 7:30pm *** Beginner friendly Salsa on1 Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano *** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am *** Spinning your favorite music DJRonASHKENAZ 1317 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley Ca Parking is available in the REI parking lot across the street after 9 pm. At other times, street parking is available on Gilman, San Pablo and neighboring streets. Please respect Ashkenaz's neighbors and keep voices down as you walk through the neighborhood, especially late at night. FOR MORE INFO CONTACT <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://ricofridaysinberkeley.eventbrite.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2vI4wL-JictqOXMsDOcCcbPjVfSrDd6_8Gm21mSiGguKURMf_pGZEiM34_aem_2kf6hfG_AuSb6MS_00Radg">krdance.official@gmail.com</a>

RICO Fridays: Latin dance and Costume Party

NO SHOW

Doors at 7:30PMShow at 8:00PMWith special guests including Bella Rayne Moonbloom is a UC Berkeley-based Psychedelic Indie Jam Band (@<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://moonbloom.band">moonbloom.band</a> on instagram). Gaining buzz and a following in our local college music scene allowed us to start playing venues and other university-affiliated events all around California, including Santa Barbra, San Luis Obispo, Santa Cruz, LA, Davis, and Petaluma. The artists in Moonbloom are seasoned jazz musicians and accomplished artist in our genres of interest, the most popular of which being the Grateful Dead, indie music, the blues and jazz. The group is focused and deeply passionate in the art of improvisation and live performance.A continuation of the Ashkanaz's Grateful Dead night with the Bay Area’s newest and up and coming UC Berkeley based psychedelic indie jam band. With the Grateful Dead being by far their biggest influence and upbringing, they will be bringing a youthful, modern, and jazzy interpretation to the Grateful Dead song book; hoping to keep alive the tradition for the next generation.Moonbloom’s lead guitarist Spencer Krenz has been featured sitting in at various Grateful Dead nights with resident artist such as Scott Guberman, Grahame Lesh, Alex Jordan, Zach Nugent, Anna Elva and many more.

Grateful Dead Night with Moonbloom

Doors at 7:30PMShow at 8:00PMOut Of Many One Productions presents the Peter Tosh Birthday Celebration onSaturday, October 19 on what would have been Peter Tosh’s 80th&nbsp;birthday. This37 th installment of this Bay Area tradition will be held at Ashkenaz in Berkeley.Attendees will enjoy rare footage of Peter Tosh’s early life. Music will be providedby a local DJ, plus a special guest. The host of the evening is local celebrity radioDJ Spliff Skankin.The Out Of Many One Nyabinghi Drummers will also be performing ceremonialRastafarian drumming and chanting.Peter Tosh, the “Stepping Razor”, was a Rastafarian, and in keeping with hisbeliefs, the entire event will be performed by Rastafarian practitioners. The publicis welcome to come and enjoy this pure “Rasta” ceremony.Event producer, Carlton Campbell, who is also Peter Tosh’s cousin and touredwith him extensively in the 80’s, keeps the fire burning for Tosh’s music andmessage by producing this annual event. Campbell says, “We have celebratedPeter Tosh’s birthday one way or the other since his passing in 1987. Some of thecelebrations have been huge concerts and others were more intimate. This year,we are excited to be able to share rare film footage of Peter Tosh.The Peter Tosh Foundation in Jamaica is also holding Tosh Fest on the same day,as the Berkeley, CA event, as part of a new initiative aimed at addressingdisparities in the reggae legend’s hometown of Belmont, Bluefields-Westmoreland.The Ashkenaz Music &amp; Dance Community Center is located at 1317 San PabloAvenue in Berkeley, CA. This is all- ages event.$20 tickets are available in advance online or at the door.$15 STUDENT discount price (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready)For more information visit, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/events/522900226808581">https://www.facebook.com/events/522900226808581</a>

Peter Tosh Birthday Celebration

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show at 8:00PM</h2>George Jones is widely recognized as the greatest singer in country music. From his start as a flat-topped honky-tonker, to his reign as king of the country crooners, his hit-making career spanned the history of country music after WWII, scoring number one hits in four different decades and helping to define the art of singing country music. Jill Rogers &amp; Crying Time bring their celebration of the King of Country to Ashkenaz, featuring some of the Bay Area’s most celebrated singers interpreting the heart-breaking and boot stomping songs of George Jones. Hear the hits, the duets, and the deep cuts performed by Smelley Kelley (Red Meat), Joe Rut (Sunshine Shovelers - Best Local Band 2024 - East Bay Express), Maurice Tani (77 El Deora), Andrés Miguel Cervantes (Speakeasy Records), Leigh Crow and Ruby Vixen (Velvetta), and Hank and Lynne of Nashville Honeymoon, along with Jill Rogers &amp; Crying Time.

King George: Crying Time and Friends Celebrate the Music of George Jones

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show at 8:00PM</h2>Witty &amp; engaging, Damn Tall Buildings’ energizing music finds beauty and glory in the mundane workaday struggle of everyday life: time keeps passing and the seasons come and go, you scroll too much, you smoke too much, you lose yourself, only to sit with yourself &amp; find yourself again, you laugh with your friends, and you look out the window &amp; dream about what else might be out there. It all keeps coming around. You carry on, intent on flourishing and thriving. This is what Damn Tall Buildings sings about, what they seek to share with their audience.In their early days, Damn Tall Buildings didn’t rehearse – they busked. Now, whether live or on record, the trio still radiates the energy of a crew of best friends playing bluegrass on the street. Anchoring that energy is their instrumental chops, their strong songwriting, and their varied influences that stretch beyond bluegrass, even beyond American roots music altogether. Whether sharing lead vocals and instrumental solos or blending their voices into high-spirited harmony, Damn Tall Buildings is a tight unit that contains more than the sum of its parts.Primary vocalist and lyricist Max Capistran’s singing recalls old blues and The Band-style roots-rock, whereas Sasha Dubyk’s time studying musical theater is evident in her rich vocal tone and soulful flair. Avery Ballotta’s fiddle brings stratospheric dimension to the churning rhythm section of Capistran’s guitar and Dubyk’s bass. The band’s harmony singing is tight without being too slick – they sound like three individual voices joined together in celebration, not a perfectly polished machine. Their choruses are the kind you sing along to with a glass raised into the air.In 2013, then students at Boston’s Berklee College of Music, the band took their instruments to nearby street corners and jammed for hours on old bluegrass and blues songs, traditional fiddle tunes, and eventually their own original music. Busking, a continuous test of one’s ability to command an audience’s attention, cemented their closeness and fostered their infectious, captivating performance style. It’s how they learned half of their repertoire, and it’s where Dubyk first picked up the bass.Since their busking days, Damn Tall Buildings have grown to new heights over the course of their decade of creating together. They’ve made four albums: 2014’s Cure-All, 2015’s self-titled, 2019’s Don’t Look Down and 2022’s Sleeping Dogs. The band has also relocated to Brooklyn, NY and toured widely, appearing at festivals like Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, Philadelphia Folk Festival, Freshgrass Festival, Ossipee Valley Festival, Walnut Valley Festival, Blissfest and Merlefest. Now based in Brooklyn, NY, they have begun to travel the globe playing bigger and bigger stages, making lots of friends wherever they go. They carry with them a connective spirit, welcoming audiences to join in the moment with the band as they take us on a journey through a well-crafted show. The trio has a knack for making any room feel a little more like home.

Damn Tall Buildings

Anna Elva takes the lead this week with friends TBA!WED, OCTOBER 16TH DOORS: 7:30PM SHOW: 8:00PM <img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t16/3/16/1f39f.png" alt="🎟">TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Grateful Dead Night with Anna Elva

<h2>Doors at 6:30PM</h2><h2>Show at 7:00PM</h2>Coffeehouse is back for a third year from Albany Vocal Music! Our show consists of all specialty acts that are acoustic. No choirs perform at this event, only solos and groups that have been selected by an audition. Please join us; there will be coffee!

Albany Vocal Music - Coffeehouse

<h2>Doors at 4:00PM</h2><h2>Show at 4:30PM</h2>The Really Terrible String Orchestra of SF Bay is dedicated to providing rehearsal and informal performance opportunities to Bay Area amateurs who have some training in classical bowed strings (violin, viola, cello and double bass). As local string teachers, we(the organizers) noticed that many of our adult students have few opportunities to make music outside of their lessons, and many are searching for an opportunity to play where there would be both a supportive atmosphere and "strength in numbers!"&nbsp;There are other organizations of this nature in the US and abroad, but we are the first to start one in the Bay Area. The RTSO was inspired by the Really Terrible Orchestra, founded by Alexander McCall-Smith and friends in Edinburgh, Scotland.&nbsp; We are loosely affiliated by affinity and personal contacts, but are financially and organizationally independent. We and the other satellite orchestras stay in touch, share stories and trade tips on effective rehearsal and concert techniques.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a typical gathering, players come with instruments and music stands on the last Sunday evening of&nbsp; every month at St. Clement's Episcopal Church in Berkeley CA.&nbsp; We meet at 6:30pm for questions about orchestra skills and warm up, then proceed to review pieces previously played through. After the substantial break with snacks and socializing we explore new material and end at 9pm. Folks are encouraged to join in at any point in the rehearsal schedule that suits them. The musical genres cover everything from the baroque era to 19th, 20th and 21st-c. compositions and arrangements, including pop standards and new works. The mood of our sessions is upbeat, very supportive and somewhat irreverent, with lots of laughter. During the year we intend to have one or two public performance opportunities, TBA. Every December we have an annual Holiday Pot Luck Sing-a-Long to which friends and family are warmly invited.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We have a three member board with Sara Usher serving as President (and General Manager), Renee Sheehan as Secretary and&nbsp;Donna Eyestone as Treasurer.&nbsp;The official Music Director is David Morris, with back up by Sara, Rachel and&nbsp;Shira Kammen as needed!&nbsp;We are a 501(c)(3) California Public Benefit Corporation,&nbsp; donations are tax deductible.

Really Terrible String Orchestra: 15th Anniversary Celebration

<h2>Doors at 7:30 PM / Country Two Step Lesson at 8 PM / Show at 8:30 PM</h2>We're bringing you the best of country music and dancing in the Bay Area!The big guy from out West and larger than life energy (he’s also 6’5’) performer, guitarist, singer, banjoist, songwriter, composer, entertainer, musical historian and teacher Mitch Polzak wears his heart on his sleeve and his playing in his heart.Polzak performs rockabilly and 60’s country music with the religious fervor of Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash and delivers a Honky Tonk ballad with the sincerity of Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings. Mitch will bring a room to a fevered pitch of joyous energy on the dance floor and then tell you a story in a song like two old friends sitting at a kitchen table at midnight.Join us for a dance lesson followed by a great night of country music and dancing -- featuring the best country artists in the Bay!TICKETS: STUDENT discount: $12 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready) GA Presale: $15 GA DoS: $20(Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

<h2>Friday, October 11th</h2><h2>Doors at 7:00PM Show at 8:00PM</h2>A tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done beforeDoors at 7:00PM Show at 8:00PMAshkenaz is all ages, all the time. Kids and minors are always welcome. Those 12 or under are admitted FREE (unless otherwise noted).

<h2>Doors @ 7:00PM</h2><h2>Beginner Cajun/Zydeco Dance Lesson @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show &amp; Social Dancing @ 8:00PM</h2>Pete Okie Weiss (yes, his middle name is Okie) hails from Austin, Texas, where he played keys &amp; accordion with local legends Gumbo Ce Soir, The Gritones, and Leo Rondeau. Now based in Oakland, Okie assembled a zydeco rhythm section featuring members of soul band Emily Day &amp; the Knights and honky-tonkers The Country Business. The result is Okie Weiss &amp; the Zydeco Playboys, a new zydeco band that knows how to walk the soul-country line and keep that dance floor packed 'til closing time.

Okie Weiss & The Zydeco Playboys

<h2>Doors at 6:30 PM / Balkan Dance Lesson at 7 PM / Dance at 7:30 PM</h2>Teaching by Nadav Nur and Susie ShoafDiscover the captivating world of Balkan folk dancing at our monthly event, where we revive the '70s-style Berkeley folk dance scene to the exhilarating rhythms of the Balkans. Join us as we pay homage to the spirit of Ashkenaz founder David Nadel, who first introduced Balkan folk dancing in 1973 by dancing to recorded music that captures the essence of that era.This event is a heartfelt tribute to David Nadel and the music and dance that made Ashkenaz an award-winning dance club. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Balkan music or a newcomer eager to learn traditional Balkan folk dances, this gathering is for you. Dance teachers and fellow participants will be on hand to instruct and guide you through a diverse array of dances spanning Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, the Roma culture, and more.Expect a mix of fun, easy, and more challenging dances. Come and be a part of this vibrant celebration of Balkan culture through dance and music!TICKETS: GA: $10 (Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

BACHATANightz October 3RELLEO Live*** Doors open 7:30pm *** Beginner friendly Bachata Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano *** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am *** DJ Ron in the mixPre-Sale $15 At Door $25 Students with Valid ID $15 at door.

<h2>Wednesday, October 2nd</h2><h2>Doors at 7:30PM Show at 8:00PM</h2>A tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done beforeDoors at 7:30PM Show at 8:00PMAshkenaz is all ages, all the time. Kids and minors are always welcome. Those 12 or under are admitted FREE (unless otherwise noted).

<h2>Doors @ 7:00PM</h2><h2>Show @ 7:30PM</h2><h2></h2>Since they began their journey in early 2015 in Barcelona, Balkan Paradise Orchestra has shown, in each and every performance, their potential as an unusual and ground-breaking group. Composed by wind and percussion players, the Balkan Paradise Orchestra (aka BPO) is a breath of fresh air for the music panorama of their country.Despite taking as a starting point the sounds of Balkan roots, their compositions mix different rhythms and traditions worldwide, resulting in an eclectic and festive music. BPO has a surprising capacity to generate empathy with the public, bringing joy and desire to dance in every corner of the world.In their first year, Balkan Paradise Orchestra won the Projecte Cabal Musical 2015 prize from Taller de Músics de Barcelona, which allowed them to record their first ep and video clip. Later on, they were also awarded by the 1st Prize at Haizetara 2017 and the International Street Music Competition from Amorebieta-Etxano (Euskadi), Sons de la Mediterrània 2017 in Catalonia, which helped them release their first album, K’ataka. After three nominations at the prestigious Enderrock 2018 Awards as best Folk album best video clip and young talent band, they were awarded for the Best Folk Album 2018 by popular vote for “K’ataka”. During 2019, they received one more prize as a new talent, from Premis Alícia 2019 organized by Acadèmia Catalana de la Música. In 2022 they received the Premis Arc for Best International Tour.After releasing “K’ataka” and their presentation throughout Catalonia and Spain, it began the “Unza Unza Tour”; a show characterized by its energy, freshness and originality, by the hand of Sonde3.In 2020, in the middle of the pandemic, the band released their second album,”Odissea”, inspired by Homer’s Odyssey and 2001: The Kubrick’s Space Odyssey. The album includes nine original tunes and a traditional song, creating a very varied sound universe; a kind of kaleidoscope where shapes, colors and textures all blend together.In 2021, Balkan Paradise Orchestra also released a new project called “Game Sessions”, an EP based on four tracks from their latest album “Odissea”. For each song they invited a different producer and collaborator; reliable artists they admire musically, to play and create new experiences around these songs.The members of the BPO in 2022 presented "BPΩ", a concert full of magnetism (B), which captivates the audience, making it impossible not to dance to their beat; on the power (P) of their choreography and the sound of their instruments; and on their physical resistance (Ω) to give it all and engage with their music, transmitting a powerful force in constant movement.This 2023 BPO premieres “Catarsis”, its new show. “Catarsis” symbolizes the moment of emotional release through music, movement and the party feeling that BPO transmits in their concerts. The energy shared between the band and the audience makes this catharsis possible; a unique and powerful show, whose choreographic staging blends perfectly with their original music proposal. In “Catarsis” you will be able to listen to their own songs and some new versions with very diverse sound influences, such as Balkan, Latin or electronic music.After having premiered the concert in New York, BPO will travel from Barcelona to many cities of the Iberian Peninsula, Europe, America and Asia in what will be their most international tour.

Balkan Paradise Orchestra

RICO Fridays: Latin dance party

Doors @ 7:00PMBeginner Cajun/Zydeco Dance Lesson @ 7:30PMShow &amp; Social Dancing @ 8:00PMThe California Blue Runners is a high-energy band, playing Cajun and Zydeco music in the original format. The band features the legendary Andrew Carriere on accordion and vocals. Andrew has been playing Cajun/Zydeco music for the last 30 years throughout California. The supporting members are all veterans of the Cajun/Zydeco music scene. Tom Stewart on guitar, 10 years experience with a number of bands. Haywood Douresseau Scrubboard a veteran of the Farmers Market, Off the Grid and other bands. David Hymowitz drums, over 30 years experience with Cajun/Zydeco bands. Andre Nigoghossian fiddle,vocals and accordion, experienced and active in a number of bands.Named from a song created by Bae Bae Carriere the lead singer and accordion players dad. This band plays authentic Louisiana Cajun and Zydeco music. The lead singer and accordion players is Andrew Carriere a native of Lawtell Louisiana and a Creole French Speaker. The band plays original Cajun and zydeco songs in the original format and original language. The band fills the night with two step dances, the waltz, and line dances which creates a night full of toe tapping fun. The band is featured in major festivals including Cotati Accordion Festival, the Crawfish&amp; Catfish Festival and a number of other venues.

The California Blue Runners

Doors at 7:30PMShow at 8:00PMWith Jon Chi, Jeremy Hoenig, JP McLean, and Mike Emerson and special guests.Wildfires, floods, quarantine and isolation, protests, riots, and raising children who are coming into awareness of these issues all influenced Jon Chi as he wrote the words and music to his 3rd solo album, River of Marigolds. “How do you take struggle and adversity and turn that into hope and love?” is a central question on the album, Chi says. The Marin County-based songwriter, guitarist, and producer coalesces disparate styles here that he has explored on prior releases. Chi’s lyrics, at times dark and moody and at others hopeful, meld with a musical blend of spacious Americana and psychedelic soul. Much of the album features Dave Schools (Widespread Panic) on bass along with long-time rhythm collaborators John-Paul McLean and Jeremy Hoenig (Melvin Seals and JGB), Jordan Feinstein and Mike Emerson on keyboards, and pedal steel ace Dave Zirbel. &nbsp;&nbsp;Jon is the former frontman for the band Rainmaker who found their fans among the jamband and world music scene.&nbsp; The band’s second album, Long Slow Fade, reached #2 on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://jambands.com/">jambands.com</a> radio chart and featured Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart. Chi has gone on to create two solo efforts, Just For Now and Another Rising Sun which were more focused, songwriter-style records. “I love both of those styles, and I think we blended them together really well on (River of Marigolds). I feel like we’re adding a little something new to the conversation.”​While River of Marigolds is undeniably steeped in the challenges of today(“Toss us a tourniquet, send us a sage / We’ve been waiting on the wind to blow the other way”), it ultimately yields perspective and hope in lines like “She’s hanging on the hands of time, but don’t they have their way? / Let love and laughter rule your days” and invites you to “Raise a glass, come sing along / praise the earth that we’re all walking upon”.&nbsp; Chi started with 40 songs and culled them back to the 9 that were most cohesive. &nbsp;"There had to be an emotional thread that ran through the entire album," he says. The second half of the album is connected with seamless segues and there is an inviting mix of atmospheric Americana (“River of Marigolds and “Sweet Surrender”), gritty rock (“Road to Revival”), and driving soul (“Got to Give the Devil His Due” and “Cold Clear Winter”).&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Jon is also an engineer and producer and has collaborated with artists including guitar greats Erenest Ranglin, Robben Ford, and Paul Barerre of Little Feat, songwriting talents Jolie Holland and James Mercer of the Shins, and renowned session players Chris Chaney (Alanis Morisette), John Wesley McVicker Jr. (Sheila E, Usher), among many others. Chi’s songs have received major and college radio play, and have appeared in documentaries, commercials, and on NPR’s All Things Considered. &nbsp;His recordings have been described as “Musical magic” (Honest Tune Magazine) and “Moody and magnificent” (Liverpool Sound and Vision).

Grateful Dead Night with Jon Chi

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2><h2></h2>Caña Dulce y Caña Brava offers a performance which exhibits the music, poetry, dance and traditional attire of Veracruz, Mexico, interpreted by artists who are beneficiaries of the jarocho culture and noteworthy performers with years of experience on both national and international stages. The group stands out as an artistic project that highlights feminine poetry and voices. Creating an experience that connects the spectator with distinct emotions, one is taken on a voyage through multiple rhythms, accompanied by traditional string instruments such as the harp and the jarana, percussion and zapateado, poetic improvisation in rhyme and the projection of visual effects. Offering a assortment of colors, textures and images to diverse and multi-generational audiences, the ensemble is defined by an original aesthetic concept that unites the traditional with the vanguard in a contemporary stage proposal.<iframe-embed src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H5LbobpvtB4?si=DE-Fokiktq3fdi2S" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="true" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" height="315" width="560" style="" metaposition="flex-start" metatype="youtube"></iframe-embed><h3 style="text-align: start">Spreading and recreating the traditional music of Veracruz</h3>Since its formation in 2007, the group has carried the seal of feminine strength and beauty within the traditionally masculine world of Mexican son.The sounds of the strings interweave with the poetic messages written from a woman’s perspective, creating a facet not before seen within this musical genre.The zapateado (percussive dance) on the tarima (wooden platform) accentuates the beat, while the band’s colorful wardrobe embellishes their musicality. Appealing instrumental landscapes include the captivating vibrations of the horse jaw, the profound and mystical harmonies of the harp, the percussive atmosphere created by the jarana, the robust rhythm of the guitarra grande, and the renaissance-sounding bowed instruments created ex profeso for the group, resurrecting extinct baroque instrumentation.Thanks to their dedication, innovation and consistency, the group has positioned itself as a reference point for current son jarocho music. They have collaborated with well-known artists such as Lila Downs, Geo Meneses, María Inés Ochoa and La Santa Cecilia (recording “Volver a los 17” by Violeta Parra, in the Grammy nominated album “Amar y Vivir”, 2017). Furthermore, Caña Dulce y Caña Brava has represented Mexico in forums and festivales worldwide in Latin America, the United States, Canada, Africa, Asia and Europe.

Caña Dulce y Caña Brava

<h2>Doors @ 2:45PM</h2><h2>Live Music &amp; Square Dancing @ 3:00PM</h2>Berkeley Old Time Music Convention presents their annual family square dance, music by Cathy Fink &amp; Marcy Marxer, calling by Susan Michaels. FREE!

BOTMC FREE Family Square Dance

<h2>7:00 &nbsp;doors</h2><h2>7:30 &nbsp;flatfooting clogging lesson with Evie Ladin</h2><h2>8:00 &nbsp; Square dance begins</h2><h2>Three bands in this order:</h2><h2>Propagators</h2><h2>Bigfoot</h2><h2>The Onlies</h2><h2>Two callers: &nbsp;Susan Michaels and Robin Fischer</h2><h2>In the back studio:</h2><h2>8:00 &nbsp; Song circle hosted by Viv &amp; Riley (the Onlies)</h2><h2>9-ish &nbsp; Old Time jam hosted by Cathy Fink &amp; Marcy Marxer</h2>Bios:The Onlies with Nokosee FieldsThe Onlies are a young group of old friends who perform together in a stringband. They grew up playing fiddles, guitars, and banjos in their hometowns of Seattle, WA and Lexington, VA. With their latest self-titled recording, the band digs deep into performances of traditional american popular (old time) music. The music moves with a pulsating drive, sharp arrangements, and rich vibration — it resounds with the present.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Onlies are:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://samibraman.com/">Sami Braman</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://vivandriley.com/wp/">Riley Calcagno</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.vivianleva.com/">Vivian Leva</a>, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/leoshannonmusic/">Leo Shannon</a>. At the BOTMC, they'll be joined by frequent collaborator Nokosee Fields. Their latest release (THE ONLIES) is their fourth full-length record, though it will be their first one as a quartet since joining with Leva in 2017. The band, all still in their twenties, won first place at the Clifftop Appalachian Stringband Festival in 2017, has toured the US extensively, and has performed and collaborated with Bruce Molsky, Elvis Costello, Tatiana Hargreaves, Foghorn Stringband, The Bee Eaters, John Herrmann &amp; Meredith McIntosh, and Darol Anger, among others. Their newest record is produced by Caleb Klauder (Foghorn Stringband, Caleb Klauder Country Band), and features Nokosee Fields (Western Centuries, Steam Machine) on bass. It is a committed engagement with the histories and futures of old time fiddle music. BigfootFormed in 2010 to compete in the traditional string band contest at Clifftop, they took the name Bigfoot from Rhys Jones’ swollen foot at the time, and they also took first place! The band members are Rhys Jones &amp; Cleek Schrey on fiddles, John Herrmann on banjo, Susie Goehring on guitar and Meredith McIntosh on bass. Everyone but Cleek sings.&nbsp; John Herrmann: Best known as a banjo player, John is also an expert guitarist, bassist and fiddler. He has played with many notable bands such as the Henrie Brothers, Ralph Blizzard, One Eyed Dog, the Wandering Ramblers and Songs from the Mountains. He and his partner Meredith McIntosh have been part of the Midnight Mockingbirds, Ida Red and the Rockinghams. Meredith McIntosh:&nbsp;With a degree in music education and a great love for old-time music, Meredith plays fiddle, guitar, bass, flute and piano. She has performed with Ida Red, the Heartbeats, Balfa Toujours, The Rockinghams, and The New Southern Ramblers (with John Herrmann, Gordy Hinners and Phil Jamison). She lives in Asheville NC where she is a certified massage therapist and teacher of The Alexander Technique. Rhys Jones:&nbsp; Born in Chicago, he began his fiddling in the fertile environment of the Chicago Barn Dance Company. Soon after, his family moved to southern West Virginia where he learnt from the older generation of fiddlers, including Ernie Carpenter, Melvin Wine and Wilson Douglas. Rhys has won both fiddle and band contests at The Appalachian String Band Festival (Clifftop) and has played for concerts, dances, workshops and festivals across the United States and Europe. Cleek Schrey:&nbsp; Cleek Schrey is a fiddler and composer from Virginia, now based in NYC. The journal Sound Post has noted that Cleek “possesses a rare combination of traits: deep respect for traditional music and the people who make it, and an unbounded curiosity about new directions for sound.” Susie Goerhing:&nbsp;has been playing old-time fiddle and guitar and singing Appalachian ballads and Carter Family songs since the late 1970s when she first joined forces with long time musical partners Jeff and Rick Goerhing. This musical trio formed the core of the Red Mules, an old-time string band that performed at festivals, music and dance camps, square dances and social gatherings throughout the 1980s and 90s. Susie has also performed and recorded with Rayna Gellert. The PropagatorsThe Propagators are experts in playing fiddle tunes that make you want to get up and dance! With Michelle Yu on fiddle, Evie Ladin on banjo, Rowan McCallister on guitar, and Keith Terry on Bass, The Propagators bring together four of the Bay Area’s finest old-time musicians. Susan Michaels: Susan Michaels has been calling old-time square dances, family dances, and community dances for more than 35 years, including her hometown “chicken coop” square dance on Vashon Island in Washington. She believes it is her calling in life to teach people how to hold hands in a circle and move to music. She loves all kinds of choreography, specializing in traditional Appalachian dances with drive and flow that hold on to the roots of community dance while taking off in new directions. Susan's&nbsp; special brand of dry quirky humor helps kids, newcomers, 2 left-footers, and shy persons blossom through dance.Susan has called dances at festivals and camps throughout the U.S. including the Berkeley Old Time Music Convention (CA), Dare2BSquare West (Oakland, Seattle, Portland) the Alaska Folk Festival, Pinewoods American and Family Weeks (MA), Lady of the Lake June and Family Weeks (ID), Mentone (AL), Chehallis (BC), &nbsp;Louisville Square (KY), Moosejaw (MN) Mountain Madness (TN), and John C. Campbell Folk School (NC).Robin FischerRobin Fischer loves calling for both new and experienced dancers. She calls square dances in the traditional style - no &nbsp;formal lessons, no levels, no prerecorded music, just a live band and emphasis on everyone having a good time. As a fiddler, she understands the music from the inside out!&nbsp;Robin has called &nbsp;community dances up and down the West Coast, from San Diego to Portland; and children's dances at FiddleKids Camp, Camp Augusta, and the Oakland Museum of CA. She has called at festivals including the CBA Father’s Day Festival, Berkeley Old Time Music Convention, Los Angeles Old Time Social, and Parkfield Bluegrass Festival.

BOTMC: Square Dance Party!

Doors @ 7:30PMShow @ 8:00PMJoin us for an exciting performance of Shibaali, presenting Afro-Iranian music that will move and delight you.Shibaali's Afro-Iranian music is an electro-folk show, exploring the path between traditional music from Southern Iran and the electronic musical scene.

Shibaali: Habib Meftah and Rouzbeh Esfand

<h2>Doors @ 8:00PM</h2><h2>Cumbia Dance Lesson @ 8:30PM</h2><h2>Los Bahianatos @ 9:00PM</h2><h2>Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto @ 10:00PM</h2>Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto are a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colombia">Colombian</a> traditional folkloric <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cumbia">cumbia</a> group formed in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caribbean_Region_of_Colombia">Caribbean Region of Colombia</a> which have been active since 1940. Their folkloric music preserves the traditional <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhythm">rhythms</a> and sounds product of a mixture of the Colombian <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_peoples_in_Colombia">Indigenous</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_people">Spanish</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afro-Colombian">Afro-Colombian</a> heritage.The gaiteros meaning those who play the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect mw-disambig" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaita_(disambiguation)">gaita</a> flute and San Jacinto for the town the group originated from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Jacinto,_Colombia">San Jacinto</a> in the Colombian <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Departments_of_Colombia">Department</a> of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bol%C3%ADvar_Department">Bolívar</a>.On November 9, 2007 the group won a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latin_Grammy_Awards_of_2007">Latin Grammy award</a> in the category Folkloric Music for their album "<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Un_Fuego_de_Sangre_Pura">Un Fuego de Sangre Pura: Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto from Colombia</a>" (A Fire of Pure Blood), released on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smithsonian_Folkways">Smithsonian Folkways</a> Recordings.<iframe-embed src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jl7oFYsc6gU?si=umDVQDBQPPwkVK2K" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="true" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" height="315" width="560" style="" metaposition="flex-start" metatype="youtube"></iframe-embed>Los Bahianatos (by ya NAH * tos) specialize in Colombian dance music featuring the button accordion, including cumbia, vallenato, música sabanera, salsa colombiana and everything in between; plus psychedelic Chicha Peruana featuring shimmering, surf-style electric guitar. Founded in Oakland, California, during the early months of the pandemic, Los Bahianatos remain the premier cumbia and vallenato group in 'La Bahia' de San Francisco. José Rivera, vocals and guacharaca; Chris Reid, vocals and accordion; Brax, bass and electric guitar; and Dave Eagle on caja vallenata, conga, tambor, campana and high-hat.Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/bahianatos?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2qoFvyEZE5JgTaegwWGxLvUtABS_cjg1aut4e1d6u2ZQwU3ePOLbSbn4M_aem_sP1i7Nw7YXfcZneT51zsFQ">www.instagram.com/bahianatos Facebook</a>: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/bahianatos?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2qoFvyEZE5JgTaegwWGxLvUtABS_cjg1aut4e1d6u2ZQwU3ePOLbSbn4M_aem_sP1i7Nw7YXfcZneT51zsFQ">www.facebook.com/bahianatos Youtube</a>: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/bahianatos?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2qoFvyEZE5JgTaegwWGxLvUtABS_cjg1aut4e1d6u2ZQwU3ePOLbSbn4M_aem_sP1i7Nw7YXfcZneT51zsFQ">https://youtube.com/playlist</a><a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x1ejq31n xd10rxx x1sy0etr x17r0tee x972fbf xcfux6l x1qhh985 xm0m39n x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz x1sur9pj xkrqix3 x1fey0fg" href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF34S_5GuEo5EXjW9V2I1HRysUywNR4XB&amp;fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0Cdg6PvLe8CC6CvlN65fnV0JfPto72Y_D4ZytUlLZS5_w8lLL_W8LzmoE_aem_dOTFeMftUlLNt8KmU1iczQ">...</a>

 Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto & Los Bahianatos

<h2>Doors 6:30</h2><h2>6:30 to 7:00:&nbsp; Honky tonk and Cajun dance lesson with Sarah Travis</h2><h2>7:00&nbsp; HONKY TONK DANCE with Marley's Ghost. &nbsp;</h2><h2>8:15 ish til ??:&nbsp; Front room, CAJUN-CREOLE DANCE with Ed Poullard &amp; Cedric Watson backed by Thompsonia. Back studio, old time jam hosted by BOTMC performers</h2>INSTRUMENT CHECK AVAILABLE<h1>BIOS:</h1><h2>Cedric Watson</h2>One of the brightest young talents to emerge in Cajun, Creole and Zydeco (Louisiana French) music over the last decade, Cedric Watson is a four-time Grammy-nominated fiddler, singer, accordionist, banjo player &amp; songwriter with seemingly unlimited potential. Originally from San Felipe, TX (population 868), Cedric made his first appearance at the age of 19 at the Zydeco Jam at The Big Easy in Houston, TX. Two years later, he moved to south Louisiana, immersing himself in French music and language.&nbsp; Cedric has performed French music in 17 countries and on 7 full-length albums with various groups, including the Pine Leaf Boys, Corey Ledet, Les Amis Creole with Ed Poullard and J.B. Adams, and with his own group, Bijou Creole. With an apparently bottomless repertoire of songs at his fingertips, Cedric plays everything from forgotten Creole melodies and obscure Dennis McGee reels to more modern Cajun and Zydeco songs, even occasionally throwing in a bluegrass fiddle tune or an old string band number. He is also a prolific songwriter, writing almost all of his songs on his double row Hohner accordion. Cedric’s songs channel his diverse ancestry (African, French, Native American and Spanish) to create his own brand of sounds. “We don’t want to forget that one of the biggest contributions to our culture, music and heritage was made by the Native Americans. I find that the old Zydeco rhythms sound like a mix of African and Native American ceremonial rhythms. This mélange very possibly came about through the intermingling of the Native American population and the Maroons.” – Cedric Watson Note: &nbsp;Cedric Watson also will be appearing at Freight &amp; Salvage on Thurs. Sept. 19. <h2>Ed Poullard</h2>Ed Poullard is regarded as the most significant Creole fiddler of his generation. Born in Eunice, Louisiana in 1952, the Poullard family relocated to east Texas in search of better work when Ed was still a baby. &nbsp;The Poullard family was rich in musicians on both sides. Ed’s father, John Poullard Sr., three uncles and Ed’s late brother, Danny Poullard, all played accordion and Ed’s grandfather was a fiddler. Ed learned the music by watching his father; his first instruments were drums, guitar and accordion. When he began to play his grandfather’s fiddle, he embarked upon a long apprenticeship with legendary Creole fiddler Canray Fontenot. &nbsp;Ed has played with Jesse Legé, Lawrence Ardoin, Preston Frank, his late brother Danny Poullard, and many others. He has recorded numerous albums, including several on the Arhoolie label. Ed worked as a cabinet builder for many years. Danny Poullard was the first to suggest to Ed that he combine his two interests by building accordions and now there’s a long waiting list to get one of these prized hand-crafted custom instruments! <h2>Thompsonia</h2>Thompsonia combines Eric &amp; Suzy Thompson’s deep devotion to Cajun, old-time, blues and bluegrass with daughter Allegra’s fresh perspective, creating feel-good music that richochets between the rowdy and the sentimental, with an abundance of groove and a bit of a quirky edge. This year at the BOTMC, the opening night Cajun dance will feature Cedric Watson and Ed Poullard, backed up by Thompsonia. &nbsp;This will&nbsp;be a reunion of sorts; Eric &amp; Suzy played for nearly 20 years with Ed’s older brother, Danny Poullard, in the California Cajun Orchestra, with two award-winning albums on Arhoolie. Allegra’s middle name is Danielle, named for Danny. &nbsp;Eric &amp; Suzy have performed and/or recorded with many other notable Cajun musicians including Marc and Ann Savoy, D.L. Menard, Joel Savoy and Jesse Lege, Steve Riley, Mike Doucet, etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;Allegra Thompson plays bass with the Cajun bands Midnite Ramblers and (with Eric &amp; Suzy) the Aux Cajunals. She hosts the long-running Pig in a Pen radio show on KPFA-FM, which airs every other Sunday from 3:00 to 5:00 pm.&nbsp; Allegra is also a co-host of the "Bluegrass Signal" radio show, which airs on KALW-FM, Saturdays from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Suzy Thompson is an Artistic Director Emeritus of Festival of American Fiddle Tunes (the others are Dirk Powell and Joel Savoy) and is the Director of the Berkeley Old Time Music Convention. <h2>Marley’s Ghost</h2>This Seattle-based band has been a perennial favorite at the Strawberry Music Festival for decades and we are delighted to welcome them back to the BOTMC where they’ll delve deep into their honky-tonk and country &amp; western material, with three strong vocalists, pedal steel playing that screams “country” and a rocking rhythm section.&nbsp;&nbsp;Marley’s Ghost is composed of singer/multi-instrumentalists Dan Wheetman, Jon Wilcox, Mike Phelan, Ed Littlefield Jr., Jerry Fletcher, and Bob Nichols.&nbsp; Vocalist&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/wheetman-mn0001558206">Wheetman</a>&nbsp;plays bass, rhythm guitar, fiddle, harmonica, banjo, Dobro, and lap steel. Wilcox, who holds a law degree from Stanford, sings and plays mandolin and rhythm guitar. Columbus, OH, native&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/phelan-mn0001906756">Phelan</a>&nbsp;sings and plays lead guitar, fiddle, Dobro and bassl.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/littlefield-mn0001232472">Littlefield</a>&nbsp;sings and plays mostly pedal steel. Jerry Fletcher sings and plays keyboards and accordion and Bob Nichols plays drums.​Pedal steel player Ed Littlefield served a five-year apprenticeship during the 1970s with Lance Romance, a six-piece, country-western band that traveled to a new bar every week all over the Pacific Northwest. “Later, we got down to four nights a week, playing three, one-hour sets with half-hour breaks for 'attitude adjustment.' We played up-tempo, truck driving hillbilly barroom music for working-class folks - loggers and cowboys - in bars, saloons, roadhouses, and honkytonks. In the Northwest, cowboys and loggers are pretty much the same guys with different hats and boots - one ropes cows, the other logs. Both are known to drink, use quaint language, and chew snoose. And all of them like working outdoors.”&nbsp;The band began in 1986, &nbsp;when&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/danny-wheetman-mn0001558206">Danny Wheetman</a>&nbsp;was invited by his friend&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/ed-littlefield-jr-mn0001232472">Ed Littlefield Jr.</a>&nbsp;to work on a solo effort in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/littlefield-mn0001232472">Littlefield</a>'s studio in Arlington, WA. Jon Wilcox and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/mike-phelan-mn0001906756">Mike Phelan</a>&nbsp;came up from California to help out. While working on the solo effort, the three began recording the tracks for what would become the Marley's Ghost debut album&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/haunting-melodies-mw0000922252">Haunting Melodies</a>.&nbsp; More than three decades and a dozen albums from that initial spark, they’re still playing together with the same passion, purpose and chemistry that inspired them early on.

BOTMC Welcome Party: Cajun-Creole & Honky-Tonk Dance!

Inspired by Brazil’s Fritura Livre monthly public gathering of structured Body Music improvisation and jam, Keith Terry and Crosspulse is starting a Bay Area series (that had its first meeting just before pandemic, Feb 2020!). This is the first of many!This is a guided body music jam session, all levels welcome, no experience required!About Crosspulse:Crosspulse is a non-profit arts organization dedicated to the creation, performance and recording of rhythm-based, intercultural music and dance.

'FREE FRY' BODY MUSIC JAM with Keith Terry

Doors at 7:00PMBeginner Friendly Cajun/Zydeco Lesson at 7:30PMShow &amp; Social Dancing at 8:00PMThe Back Dimples is an electrifying new Zydeco band based in Oakland, CA. With a mission to ignite the dance floor, they serve up irresistible grooves that will compel even the most hesitant dancers to move their feet. Drawing inspiration from the greats like Clifton Chenier and Buckwheat Zydeco, The Back Dimples infuse their music with a range of influences, including blues, R&amp;B, jazz, Cumbia and ska. Their sound is a testament to the Bay Area’s diverse and vibrant music scene.

The Back Dimples

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM / Show at 8:00PM</h2>A tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done before

<h2>Doors @ 7:00PM</h2><h2>Beginner Cajun/Zydeco Dance Lesson @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show &amp; Social Dancing @ 8:00PM</h2>Special Louisiana / Texas guests leading a night of the best zydeco music and dance!

The Swamp Krewe

Doors @ 6:30PM Lesson @ 7:00PM Dance @ 7:30PMTeaching by Nadav Nur and Susie ShoafDiscover the captivating world of Balkan folk dancing at our monthly event, where we revive the '70s-style Berkeley folk dance scene to the exhilarating rhythms of the Balkans. Join us as we pay homage to the spirit of Ashkenaz founder David Nadel, who first introduced Balkan folk dancing in 1973 by dancing to recorded music that captures the essence of that era.This event is a heartfelt tribute to David Nadel and the music and dance that made Ashkenaz an award-winning dance club. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Balkan music or a newcomer eager to learn traditional Balkan folk dances, this gathering is for you. Dance teachers and fellow participants will be on hand to instruct and guide you through a diverse array of dances spanning Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, the Roma culture, and more.Expect a mix of fun, easy, and more challenging dances. Come and be a part of this vibrant celebration of Balkan culture through dance and music!

Date: Saturday September 7Time: 12:15pmLocation: Ashkenaz Music and Dance - 1317 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley, Ca.Baby Ages: 0-3 yrsBachata is a music genre and dance that originated in the Dominican Republic.This will be a fun footwork class for you and your baby or toddler to stay active, engaged and bond.Class is offerer by Kathy Reyes, A Latin Dance instructor with 14 years of professional experience. Kathy now has a baby and is looking forward to continue to spread the love of dance while spending time with baby J.What to BringBaby ear protection.Baby carrierBaby essentialsParent essentials.Comfortable attire.WELLNESS PROTOCOLSPlease stay home if you or your baby have a fever, have a cold or feel sick.For questions please contact: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:krdance.official@gmail.com">krdance.official@gmail.com</a>

Bachata Baby Bonding

BACHATANightz September 5*** Doors open 7:30pm *** Beginner friendly Bachata Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano *** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am *** DJ Ron in the mixPre-Sale $15 At Door $25 Students with Valid ID $15 at door.

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>Joe Marcinek Band is an experience you will never forget. That is because each show features a different lineup of musicians creating a different set of music every night. The music is equal parts Chicago Blues, New Orleans Funk, Grateful Dead Psychedelia, and Jazz Fusion! Joe Marcinek tours nationally from New York to LA and everywhere in between. Most of the lineups will only happen one time making every night a can't miss show. The group has featured many prominent special guests including Bernie Worrell (P-Funk, Talking Heads), Melvin Seals (Jerry Garcia Band) George Porter JR (The Meters), Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk), Nikki Glaspie (Nth Power), Alan Evans (Soulive), Kris Myers (Umphrey's McGee), Tony Hall (Dumpstaphunk, Dave Mathews &amp; Friends), Shaun Martin (Snarky Puppy, Kirk Franklin), Allen Aucoin (the Disco Biscuits), Marty Sammon (Buddy Guy), Jason Hann (String Cheese Incident / EOTO), Erik "Jesus" Coomes (Lettuce), Borahm Lee (Break Science), Jennifer Hartswick and Natalie Cressman (Trey Anastasio Band), Mike Greenfield (Lotus), Borham Lee (Break Science), Steve Molitz (Phil Lesh &amp; Friends / Particle) Joey Porter (The Motet / Juno What), Fareed Haque, Scott Metzger, Nate Werth (Snarky Puppy) Garrett Sayers (The Motet) Allie Kral (Yonder Mountain String Band), Freekbass, Vinnie Amico and Jim Loughlin (moe.) and more!

Joe Marcinek Band

<h2>Doors @ 8:00PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:30PM</h2>The Bay Area's 7th Street Band has made its name backing some of the greats and new voices of reggae. For over two decades 7th Street has been hitting West Coast stages such as Reggae on the River, Sierra Nevada World Music Festival, Seattle Hemp Fest, Reggae In the Hills, Monterey Bay Reggae Fest, Catalyst, New Parrish, Elbow Room/Dub Mission, Maritime Hall, Rockit Room, Palookaville, Sweetwater Musichall, Dub Club LA, Nectar, Moes Alley, Yoshi's SF, New Karribean City, Craneway Pavillion, Shattuck Down-Low, The Hopmonk, Leap Farms, Bolinas Community Center, Area 101, Mateel Community Center, and their favorite hometown, home-cookin Ashkenaz. Drummer Edi Arnold and keyboardist Benjamin Goff, friends since high school, have played together since 1992. The East bay early 90's reggae scene heavily influenced 7th Street. Live shows at Ashkenaz and Berkeley Square by artists such as Strictly Roots, Burning Bush, Reggae Angels, Sista I-Live, Carl T and the Out of Many One crew, gave 7th Street early inspiration. Bonded like brothers, they continue to push the music. Edi, commander in chief, and Ben, secretary of state, have been the fire, commitment and drive behind 7th Street's works.Called one of the Bay Area’s best-kept musical secrets, 7th Street has backed many top touring Reggae vocalists, including Sanchez, Gappy Ranks, Glenn Washington, Konshens, Warrior King, Marlon Asher, Keznamdi, Delly Ranx, Louie Culture, Ziggy Recado and Million Stylez. Over the years, 7th Street has worked with over 50 different dynamic vocalists including: Perfect, Reemah, Blakkamoore, Arkaingelle, Mega Banton, Norris Man, Danny I, Army, Rocker T, Wadi Gad, Tuff Lion, Soulmedic, Zahira, Earl Zero, Winstrong, Bobby Hustle, Junior Toots, Binghi Ghost and the late, great Luv Fyah. Bay Area staple Jason 'Jay Stone' Collins, leader of the legendary Funkanauts on guitar and Salinas' own, Mony Lujan (lead singer and bassie of Dubwize) round out the quartet that makes up the heart of 7th St. Band. Additional musicians include Barry Capiaux, Kerry Wing, Cliff Manswell, Ryan 'Hotta Tunes', Rocker-T(rhythm guitar) and Seth Theodore.

7th Street Sound

<h2>Doors at 7:30 PM / Forró Dance Lesson at 8:15 PM / Show at 9:00 PM </h2>Foleada is a dynamic dance band based in Seattle that plays traditional "Pé de serra" Forró music from the northeast of Brazil. Along with their own compositions and hits from contemporary Forró artists like Mestrinho, Trio Macaíba, and Dois Dobrado, Foleada plays classics from Luiz Gonzaga, Ary Lobo, Anastacia, Dominguinhos, Gilberto Gil, and more. Dancers will enjoy moving to a range of rhythms including baião, xote, arrasta-pé, xaxado, forró sambado, maracatu and more.Recipient of the 2023 Jack Straw Artist Support Program, Foleada features Jamie Maschler and Gabe Hall-Rodrigues on accordion and vocals, Jeff Busch and Sam Esecson on percussion, Michael Catts on bass, and lead vocalist/percussionist Adriana Giordano from Brazil. TICKETS: STUDENT discount: $10 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready) GA Presale: $15 GA DoS: $20

Foleada

Cumbia Night- Dance lesson and party

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>The twelth annual Ashkenaz celebration of Jerry Garcia’s birthday, “Very Jerry 12”, is upon us! This All-Star Tribute to Garcia &amp; Benefit for Ashkenaz features the very best tribute musicians and bands in the Bay Area.The show will take place at Berkeley, CA’s Ashkenaz and serve as a benefit for the club. Local musicians have generously donated their time and talents in a creative and inspiring series of tributes supporting the nonprofit local institution that is Ashkenaz.<h2>LINEUP</h2>Sunshine BeckerGordon Taylor &amp; Grateful Tuna/Sea ChildNeil HamptonDavid GansAnna ElvaMaurice TaniAmy and Michael Berry with Alamo Mission BandMike Meagher+more to be announced!<h2>TICKETS:</h2>STUDENT discount: $10 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready)GA Presale: $15GA DoS: $20

Very Jerry XII

<h2>7:30PM Doors</h2><h2>8:00PM Dance Lesson</h2><h2>8:30PM Show &amp; Social Dancing</h2>The powerful vocals of Felix and Zareen lead the traditional Cuban Ensemble of Los Boleros. Take a ride to the Buena Vista Club... Let your passion guide you!

Los Boleros

CANCELLED - Etana

<h2>Doors @ 7:00PM Cajun &amp; Zydeco Dance Lesson @ 7:30PM Show &amp; Social Dancing @ 8:00PM</h2>Tom Rigney is one of the premier American Roots Music fiddle players on the planet. His band Tom Rigney and Flambeau–specializes in blazing Cajun and Zydeco two-steps, low-down Blues, funky New Orleans grooves, Boogie Woogie piano, and heartbreakingly beautiful ballads and waltzes. Much of the repertoire is composed by Rigney, but they mix in some classics from the Cajun/New Orleans songbook. Along the way you may pick up a trace of Rigney’s Irish roots, or echoes of folk music styles–it just makes the musical gumbo that much tastier.Flambeau showcases Rigney’s fiery, virtuoso fiddling, his charismatic stage presence, and his range and originality as a composer. He and Flambeau have forged a unique sound that blends American Roots styles into something original and HOT–mixing irresistible grooves with deep musicality and spectacular soloing. Rigney’s high-energy showmanship pulls the audience into his performances and makes them feel they are a part of the music and the show.

Tom Rigney & Flambeau

Doors at 7:00PM / Show at 8:00PMA tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done before.

<h2>Doors at 7:30 PM / Country Two Step Lesson at 8 PM / Show at 8:30 PM</h2>We're bringing you the best of country music and dancing in the Bay Area!The big guy from out West and larger than life energy (he’s also 6’5’) performer, guitarist, singer, banjoist, songwriter, composer, entertainer, musical historian and teacher Mitch Polzak wears his heart on his sleeve and his playing in his heart.Polzak performs rockabilly and 60’s country music with the religious fervor of Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash and delivers a Honky Tonk ballad with the sincerity of Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings. Mitch will bring a room to a fevered pitch of joyous energy on the dance floor and then tell you a story in a song like two old friends sitting at a kitchen table at midnight.Join us for a dance lesson followed by a great nice of country music and dancing -- featuring the best country artists in the Bay!TICKETS:STUDENT discount: $12 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready) GA Presale: $15 GA DoS: $20(Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show at 8:00PM</h2>Terga, a North African band inspired by the rich and diverse cultural tapestry of the region. Terga blends traditional North African rhythms with modern musical influences, creating a unique and captivating auditory experience. Their music reflects the intricate mix of Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean cultures, infusing each track with rhythms, melodies, and instruments that tell the story of their homeland's vibrant heritage.&nbsp;The name Terga, meaning "dreams" in the Berber language, symbolizes the band's vision of blending the old with the new and their aspiration to transcend cultural boundaries through music. Terga's performances are a colorful journey through time and space, where ancient sounds meet contemporary beats, and folklore dances with innovation. The band members, hailing from various parts of North Africa, bring their own regional influences, creating a harmonious blend that resonates with audiences worldwide.

TERGA

A night to celebrate, dance and enjoy Latin music. Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cumbia and more.*** Doors open 7:30pm *** Beginner friendly Salsa on1 Lesson 8:00pm with Xavier Stefano and Edna Ramirez *** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am *** Spinning your favorite music DJRonASHKENAZ 1317 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley Ca Parking is available in the REI parking lot across the street after 9 pm. At other times, street parking is available on Gilman, San Pablo and neighboring streets. Please respect Ashkenaz's neighbors and keep voices down as you walk through the neighborhood, especially late at night. FOR MORE INFO CONTACT <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://ricofridaysinberkeley.eventbrite.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2vI4wL-JictqOXMsDOcCcbPjVfSrDd6_8Gm21mSiGguKURMf_pGZEiM34_aem_2kf6hfG_AuSb6MS_00Radg">krdance.official@gmail.com</a>

RICO Thursday: Latin dance party

Scott Guberman takes the lead this week with talented friends!WED,AUGUST 14TH DOORS: 7:30PM SHOW: 8:00PMTICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Grateful Dead Night with Scott Guberman

Live music, dancing, shopping, and so much more!Official website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://suhaila.com/belly-dance-by-the-bay/">https://suhaila.com/belly-dance-by-the-bay/</a><h2>Workshops:</h2> Miriam Peretz: Nava Dance &amp; The Art of Turing: 10:00am - 12:00pm Isabella Salimpour: Belly Dance Drum Solo Choreography! 12:30pm - 2:30pm. Shahrzad Khorsandi: 3:00pm - 5:00pm Explore through Improvisation to strengthen arm and hand movement. All in the context of Persian dance. Faisal Zedan: Beginner drumming workshop 5:30pm - 7:30pm.Ala Cart Workshops: $50 each All 4 workshops: $160 (must be for all 4, no discount for 3 or less). Day Festival Entrance: $20 Live Extravaganza and Dance Party ticket: $30 VIP all access ticket: $175 includes all workshops, festival &amp; Live Extravaganza Dance party.Participants taking a workshop or signed up to perform in the Day Festival have an entrance fee to the festival for free.<h2> Festival Schedule:</h2>10 AM: WorkshopsNoon: Festival Shopping/Dancing8 PM: Live Extravaganza Dance Party9:30 PM: Isabella Salimpour Comedy Show10 PM - 12 AM: DJ by Amal Sigil &amp; AmarOfficial website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://suhaila.com/belly-dance-by-the-bay/">https://suhaila.com/belly-dance-by-the-bay/</a>

Belly Dance by the Bay

CANCELLED - Not Entirely Dead Night

<h2>Doors at 7:00PM</h2><h2>Dance Lesson at 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show at 8:00PM</h2>The Zydeco Flames have gained a reputation as the West Coast's premiere Zydeco band. The Flames consistently pack the house in venues ranging from contemporary clubs to major festivals and traditional dancehalls. Their sizzling roots rhythms are timeless and the execution of them relentless, with a stunningly powerful groove. The Flames' sixth CD release "Fire It Up", provides fans with hot Zydeco in the tradition of masters like Clifton Chenier, Buckwheat Zydeco and Queen Ida.

Zydeco Flames

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show at 8:00PM</h2>As part of her 2024 International tour, Nattali Rize and her show-stopping band from Jamaica &amp; Australia make their way to the USA for a select run of summer shows to unite the people with Music.The Nattali Rize live show is world-renowned and known for being high energy, thought-provoking,inspiring, and uplifting. The powerhouse band channel a deep world &amp; reggae influence to present anepic one of a kind experience.“There is NO band that sounds likethem—NONE. The music connects you with island vibrations tointernational lands all over the world. The creativity that has come forth from her and her band willinspire everyone to follow their heart and go for what they want in life! Thank you, Nattali!!“-Top Shelf MusicHer global anthem “One People” has amassed over 8.8 million views on youtube, Nattali and hergroup continue to connect across borders &amp; waters with many highly acclaimed International festivalappearances around the world.The night includes a special opening set from Minori. Hailing from Jamaica, Minori continues to rizewith her powerful must hear voice and exceptional live interactive performances. A conscious artistwith a love of Dancehall, Hip Hop and Reggae, Minori will haveyou vibing, thinking and dancing atthe same time.NATTALI RIZE states; “When the world is in a state of dark, there will always come a Light, thatLight is the one within the People, not external but internal and ever bright, burning in all directions,in all ways, awaiting the breeze of momentum delivered through individual and collective growth,overstanding, compassion and acceptance of our human family. Who we are, where we’ve been,where we’re going... it must always be Forward. Music is our way of connecting to that energy, toeach other, to the frequency of Possibility and Full Freedom for one and All.”Get ready for an epic night with the intention to co-create positive vibrations for the planet on thewings of Live Music!Get your tickets now!“Nattali is a bright light in the world with a vision that extends beyond the stage.”-Michael Franti(Spearhead)“They Present as an Army on a mission!”-Deb Kloeden“One of the nation’s most refreshing voices”-Rolling Stone

Nattali Rize

<h2>D﻿oors at 7:30</h2><h2>Show at 8:00 PM </h2>International kora star Karamo Susso celebrates Malian music. One of the best-known African performers to grace our stage, he has appeared in the past few years in numerous settings, contributing his unique spirit, from solo to such world fusions as the World Blues Band, Symphony of Koras, Soul Union, and the Manding Band. Susso was born in Gambia, raised in Mali, and is a singer and kora master. He grew up in a compound of griots, next door to Toumani Diabate. His uncle was Ballake Cissoko. Susso played kora and performed before he was big enough to hold the instrument. He has since gone on to perform with many of Africa’s top stars and American musicians including Taj Mahal.The kora, the 21-stringed harp lute of West Africa, originated in the ancient Kingdom of Mali more than a thousand years ago. Tradition tells that djinns brought it into this world and gave it to the griots: families whose place in the culture was to sing the epics of heroes and relate histories. The griots played kora and sang in court to praise the kings, and in the villages to carry news and to celebrate traditional ceremonies. The music is intricate, elegant, and potent. It is sweet while strong, percussive while lyrical, active while calm. Centuries of complex tradition are heard in it, as are simple truths.

Karamo Susso

Dave Lebental & The Driftwood Souls

BACHATANightz August 1*** Doors open 7:30pm *** Beginner friendly Bachata Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano *** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am *** DJ Ron in the mixPre-Sale $15 At Door $25 Students with Valid ID $15 at door.

Scott Guberman takes the lead this week with John-Paul McLean, Jeremy Hoenig, and Brian Curtin!WED, JULY 31ST DOORS: 7:30PM SHOW: 8:00PMTICKETS ON SALE NOW!

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Swing Dance Lesson @ 8:00PM</h2><h2>Show at 8:30PM</h2>Lavay Smith returns to Ashkenaz, one of our longtime favorite venues! A Bay Area institution, Ashkenaz is a wonderful venue for listening or dancing, with a great dance floor and delicious food and drinks available for sale. Lavay will light up the dance floor with an evening of swing classics, performed by her all-star 8-piece band. One of the first and still the best of the “swing revival” bands. Lavay Smith &amp; Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers remain popular after 25 years of keeping dancers ecstatic. Along with the East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop grooves by the band, Smith swings from sultry torch songs to the grit of the great blues singers. She and the band keep adding new elements to their timeless blues-jazz-swing repertoire, including new songs as well as rotating the hits and lesser-known gems from their four CDs.

Lavay Smith & Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers

Doors @ 7:30PMShow @ 8:00PM

Grateful Dead Night with Matt Hartle

<h2>Doors at 7:30 PM / Country Two Step Lesson at 8 PM / Show at 8:30 PM</h2>We're bringing you the best of country music and dancing in the Bay Area!The big guy from out West and larger than life energy (he’s also 6’5’) performer, guitarist, singer, banjoist, songwriter, composer, entertainer, musical historian and teacher Mitch Polzak wears his heart on his sleeve and his playing in his heart.Polzak performs rockabilly and 60’s country music with the religious fervor of Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash and delivers a Honky Tonk ballad with the sincerity of Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings. Mitch will bring a room to a fevered pitch of joyous energy on the dance floor and then tell you a story in a song like two old friends sitting at a kitchen table at midnight.Join us for a dance lesson followed by a great nice of country music and dancing -- featuring the best country artists in the Bay!TICKETS:STUDENT discount: $12 (ONLY AT THE DOOR - have your student ID ready) GA Presale: $15 GA DoS: $20(Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

<h2>Doors @ 8:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 9:30PM</h2>David Saenz aka ELeNA was born in L.A California, raised by Ecuadorian parents, moved to Ecuador and started playing drums and guitar at an early age. In his teenage years started his music adventures in the Ecuadorian skate punk rock scene and formed a punk band called K.O. influenced by 80’s punk bands. At the age of 18 moved to San Francisco, California pursuing a career in the music business as a singer songwriter, producer and audio engineer.In 2009 formed a punk rock band called Alcoholics where he played guitar and lead vocals after the Alcoholics band was over, In 2014 formed part of a ska, punk band called Sick Pigeon where he was the lead singer. At the same time on his way to fulfill his dreams as a musician, he was also training professionally to achieve what is also his passion as a sound engineer and producer, starting from the bottom he got the opportunity to start working at the legendary Hyde Street Studios where he currently works as a audio engineer, Producer.In January 2020, David started his new project ELeNA, lyrically Elena discusses the worlds’ social political and ecological problems, interpersonal relationships issues and love. Elena performs primary reggae music, however experiments and fusions with genres, such as punk, Ska, cumbia, latin jazz and hip hop.

Elena & The Rudians

Scott Guberman takes the lead this week with Sean Nelson, Brian Curtin, and Justin Purtill!WED, JULY 17TH DOORS: 7:30PM SHOW: 8:00PMTICKETS ON SALE NOW!

<h2>Doors @ 7:30 pm Tango dance lesson with Mira Barakat @ 8:00 pm First live set @ 9:00 pm With DJ'd tango music by Xiaomin Jiang $20 in advance; $25 at the door</h2><h2></h2>In Berkeley on their second US tour, Juan Villarreal and Patricio "Pato" Crom take us on a trip to Buenos Aires with fresh interpretations of classic tangos on guitar, one of the original instruments of the genre.&nbsp; As a singer, Juan connects with the dancers with heartfelt emotion.Social dancers themselves, Juan &amp; Patricio have a special gift for taking their two guitars and voice and creating music that is "100% MILONGUERÍSIMO BAILABLE" (100% super milonga-appropriate danceable music). They craft exquisitely danceable sets from their six albums, especially from their last two: D’Arienzo en Guitarras (2022) and Moderno Trovador (2023).Juan and Patricio met on stage at the Milonga del Moran in 2010 in Buenos Aires. Patricio had come to play with his quintet “Malo Conocido,” and Juan was there to sing as a guest with Hernán “Cucuza” Castiello. From that meeting the Duo Villarreal-Crom was born, and the musicians started a long journey, performing at festivals, milongas and concert halls in Buenos Aires, and also in various countries of South America and Europe.&nbsp;"Our guitars brought us together more than a decade ago, and we swore loyalty to them . . . For us, the duo is a way of life."&nbsp; --Juan Villarreal and Patricio Crom

Villarreal Crom

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>OSR performs samba de gafieira, funk and forró music from Brazil. Their horn section-forward sound has been moving audiences since 2019 when they premiered at SF Carnaval. Featuring vocalists Catia Lúnd, Katiana Vilá and Brian Moran and some of the Bay's best musicians, OSR performs classic Brazilian music from the 60's - 80's with original arrangements and fun surprises.

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>T Marie and Bayou Juju play traditional and original Louisiana music. The band started through gatherings at fires, suppers, porches, and levees, and you’ll feel this vibrant community of friendship echo through all of their music. In addition to honoring traditional Cajun, Creole, Zydeco, Swamp Pop, Country, Blues, and New Orleans songs, the band also contributes to the next generation of South Louisiana sound with their own original tunes, performed in both Louisiana French and English. These days you can catch them at dive bars, dancehalls, and festivals, sharing that same good juju and joy. Get on your dancing shoes and shrimp boots, and join in on .... Cajun below sea level!

T Marie & the Bayou Juju

<h2>Doors at 6:30 PM / Balkan Dance Lesson at 7 PM / Dance at 7:30 PM - 10 PM</h2>Teaching by Nadav Nur and Susie ShoafDiscover the captivating world of Balkan folk dancing at our monthly event, where we revive the '70s-style Berkeley folk dance scene to the exhilarating rhythms of the Balkans. Join us as we pay homage to the spirit of Ashkenaz founder David Nadel, who first introduced Balkan folk dancing in 1973 by dancing to recorded music that captures the essence of that era.This event is a heartfelt tribute to David Nadel and the music and dance that made Ashkenaz an award-winning dance club. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Balkan music or a newcomer eager to learn traditional Balkan folk dances, this gathering is for you. Dance teachers and fellow participants will be on hand to instruct and guide you through a diverse array of dances spanning Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania, Albania, the Roma culture, and more.Expect a mix of fun, easy, and more challenging dances. Come and be a part of this vibrant celebration of Balkan culture through dance and music!TICKETS: GA: $10 (Kids under 12 are welcome for FREE)

Balkan Dance

<h2>Doors at 6:00PM</h2><h2>Show at 6:30PM</h2>That’s right, it’s free! We are excited to showcase two legendary groups from the Bay Area that represent what Ashkenaz is all about.Join us for a vibrant celebration of music and culture at Ashkenaz! This free festival features the electrifying Caribbean Allstars, bringing the best in reggae, and the dynamic SambaDa, delivering infectious Brazilian rhythms. If you’ve been to one of our free open house experiences before, you know you will get an unforgettable evening of dancing, joy, and community spirit.

Ashkenaz Open House!

TONIGHTS SHOW IS CANCELLEDFour of the core performers are stuck overseas on their tour - we look forward to having the group back at Ashkenaz in September!

CANCELLED - Nyonmo Da

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>Le Jazz Hot (the Quartet/Trio of the Hot Club of San Francisco) is an ensemble of accomplished and versatile musicians celebrating the music of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli’s pioneering Hot Club de France. The ensemble borrows the all-string instrumentation of violin, bass and guitars from the original Hot Club, but breathes new life into the music with innovative arrangements of classic tunes and original compositions from the group’s superb lead guitarist Paul Mehling. Hearing the ensemble live, or on any of their eleven albums, carries the listener back to the 1930’s and to the small, smoky jazz clubs of Paris or the refined lounges of the famous Hotel Ritz. Often called gypsy jazz, the music of Le Jazz Hot has entranced audiences around the globe for over 30 years. Critics have hailed the group’s playing as “intricate, scorching and often brilliant…” Acoustic Guitar. From festivals in Mexico and France to concert halls across North America, Le Jazz Hot keeps this historic music fresh and alive. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.LeJazzHot.biz">www.LeJazzHot.biz</a>

Le Jazz Hot Quartet

Get ready for a night of dancing at BACHATANightz Berkeley on this 4th of July!Tickets are $15 Advance / $25 Day of Show / $15 Students at door.Hosted by award-winning Bachata contest master <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.facebook.com/kathyreyesdance.fitness/">Kathy Reyes</a>, who also teaches dance at Ashkenaz. Bachata is a form of Latin dance/music that originated in the Dominican Republic. It is now danced all over the world. Reyes teaches the dance lesson at 8:00 p.m., followed by Live dance performances and social dancing to recorded music spun by DJRon.Let's get ready for this incredible night.*** Doors open 7:30pm*** Beginner friendly Bachata Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano*** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am*** DJ Ron in the mixPre-Sale $15 (end day of event at 6:00pm) / At Door $25 / Students with Valid ID $15 at door.ASHKENAZ1317 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley CaParking is available in the REI parking lot across the street after 9 pm. At other times, street parking is available on Gilman, San Pablo and neighboring streets. Please respect Ashkenaz's neighbors and keep voices down as you walk through the neighborhood, especially late at night.FOR MORE INFO CONTACT <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/kathyreyesdance.fitness/">krdance@gmail.com</a>

<h2>Doors at 7:00PM / Show at 8:00PM</h2>A tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done before.

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>Please join us for a special night to celebrate our good friend Joe Graziosi!

Joe Graziosi's 70th Birthday Party with Édessa & Helios

JUNE 28 Come join us at Ashkenaz in Berkeley.A night to dance and enjoy Latin music. Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cumbia and more. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://ricofridaysholidayparty.eventbrite.com">https://ricofridaysholidayparty.eventbrite.com</a> *** Doors open 7:30pm*** Beginner friendly Salsa Lesson 8:00pm with Kathy Reyes and Xavier Stefano*** Social Dancing 9:00pm- 1:30am*** Spinning your favorite music DJRon*** Beer, Wine and Snacks available for purchase. Pre-Sale $15At Door $25Students with Valid ID $15 at door.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://ricofridaysholidayparty.eventbrite.com">https://ricofridaysholidayparty.eventbrite.com</a> ASHKENAZ1317 San Pablo Ave. Berkeley, CA Parking is available in the REI parking lot across the street after 9 pm. At other times, street parking is available on Gilman, San Pablo and neighboring streets. Please respect Ashkenaz's neighbors and keep voices down as you walk through the neighborhood, especially late at night.FOR MORE INFO CONTACT <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:krdance.official@gmail.com">krdance.official@gmail.com</a>

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM / Dance Lesson at 8:00PM / Show at 8:30PM</h2>The Back Dimples is an electrifying new Zydeco band based in Oakland, CA. With a mission to ignite the dance floor, they serve up irresistible grooves that will compel even the most hesitant dancers to move their feet. Drawing inspiration from the greats like Clifton Chenier and Buckwheat Zydeco, The Back Dimples infuse their music with a range of influences, including blues, R&amp;B, jazz, Cumbia and ska. Their sound is a testament to the Bay Area’s diverse and vibrant music scene.

<h2>Doors at 7:00PM / Show at 8:00PM</h2>A tradition started back in the 20th century, Ashkenaz’s Grateful Dead Night is always evolving. Led by acclaimed guitarist-singer Allen (of Phil Lesh &amp; Friends, Melvin Seals &amp; JGB, Ghosts of Electricity), a revolving cast of incredibly talented musicians inhabits Mars Hotel, drawing from the Grateful Dead’s vast catalog to delight Deadheads and dancers of all generations. A Mars Hotel show is always an energetic evening of good vibes, good music, and good community.When it became apparent that Jerry Garcia had played his final show in 1995, Stu Allen began working to keep Garcia’s music, sound, and spirit alive in the concert setting. He regularly works with Phil Lesh and has also played sets with Bob Weir and Bill Kreutzmann. Allen is perhaps most known for fronting Melvin Seals’ tribute to the Jerry Garcia Band from 2004 to 2011. He received more national acclaim in 2010 when he toured with Dark Star Orchestra. Allen shares the Grateful Dead’s commitment to making each performance a unique event, from preparation to execution. He will perform multiple shows before playing the same song twice, and even then, that song will not be realized in quite the same way.Mars Hotel takes this idea a step further by presenting a new band at each performance. Drawing from the rich music scene of the Bay Area, Allen has assembled a broad and ever-rotating group of musicians that makes each concert a once-only experience. As far as Grateful Dead tribute bands go, this is a concept that has never been done before.

<h2>Doors @ 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show @ 8:00PM</h2>&nbsp;West Grand Brass Band (WGBB) is a group of 6 talented musicians that together combine the brass band tradition with modern musical genres. Their music takes the form of an ever changing mix of traditional songs, re-imagined covers, and genre-expanding originals. Based in Oakland, California, WGBB prides itself in creating a party wherever they perform, from bars and breweries to weddings and parades.

West Grand Brass Band

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM / Show at 8:00PM</h2>You’re Going to Die Presents: Mourning Our Fathers Mourning our Fathers is an open mic event, the communal offering to come together and make space for the fathers &amp; paternal figures we have lost. In a world that would rather sweep sadness, anger, confusion, &amp; grief under the rug, we will make space for it together. The event will feature music from Kisura Nyoto throughout the night. Sign-ups will be the night of &amp; the list fills up quickly, so if you want to perform, get there early… If you’re going to perform, keep it under 5 MINUTES. That’s right: 5 MINUTES. WE WILL TIME YOU. And we will stand up &amp; get on stage with you and offer you a hug if you want one. Poetry, prose, music, dancing, comedy, drama, happy, sad, &amp; on &amp; on &amp; on… Remember: EVERYTHING GOES… so do whatever you want. There will be an acoustic guitar made available at the show. You don’t have to perform anything; the audience is as essential as the performers, and your listening draws forth the depth of what can be shared. We ask that you don’t perform anything with a setup that takes much more time than the time it takes for you to walk onstage. We invite you to share your stories and your heart with a community that is committed to holding both the reverence and irreverence that emerges when we contend with our own mortality, and with the losses that have shaped us. You’re invited to eulogize, cry, laugh, wail, remember, listen, sing - anything you want to offer. You're Going to Die. No. Really. You are. Sliding Scale $15-$100 No one turned away for lack of funds (applies to advanced sales too)! Email <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:connect@yg2d.com">connect@yg2d.com</a> if you’d like a ticket reserved for you at a lower or $0 price. We got you. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ You're Going to Die [YG2D]&nbsp;is a 501(c)3 nonprofit bringing diverse communities creatively into the conversation of death &amp; dying, inspiring life by unabashedly sourcing our shared mortality,&nbsp;with a free creatively conscious mortality podcast, monthly sell-out live open mics, concerts, &amp; workshops facilitating creatively conscious mortality space for community, a free online&nbsp;grief space offered every week, an elderhood program intergrating senior citizen wisdom into our general communal experience, a hospice program sending musicians to patients' bedsides, prison programming&nbsp;faciliating&nbsp;a suicide prevention group and hosting creatively connecting open mic space and workshops with community in San Quentin &amp; working with community impacted by the prison system [inside &amp; out], and&nbsp;cancer patient workshops &amp; bedside visits for healing through creative writing. -&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.yg2d.com/">https://www.yg2d.com/</a> Kisura Nyoto is a singer/songwriter with Soul, Pop, Folk, Jazz, Rock and R&amp;B influences. She has a special love of Radiohead, Aretha Franklin, Roberta Flack, Fiona Apple, and Fleet Foxes. Though she's been singing all of her life, Kisura Nyoto was the co-lead singer of the San Francisco soul band, Midtown Social, who released a full-length album called Fantastic Colors in February 2020. Currently, Kisura Nyoto is working on her first solo project M U S E U M | Life.&nbsp; Ashkenaz is committed to making our events accessible to everyone including those with disabilities. We have an ADA-compliant ramp to the left of the main door.  Upon arrival, anyone needing access to the ADA-compliant ramp completes their purchase prior to entering the building. Ashkenaz personnel will then assist with finding an appropriate space.  In order to best accommodate any specific accessibility needs, we request that you call (510-525-5099) or email (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:ashkenaz@ashkenaz.com">ashkenaz@ashkenaz.com</a>) us at least 72 hours prior to the performance with your request

YOU’RE GOING TO DIE PRESENTS: MOURNING OUR FATHERS - A YG2D Open Mic Event

Scott Guberman takes the lead this week with friends TBA!WED, JUNE 19TH DOORS: 7:30PM SHOW: 8:00PM <img src="https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t16/3/16/1f39f.png" alt="🎟">TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Grateful Dead Night with Scott Guberman & Friends

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM</h2><h2>Show at 8:00PM</h2><h2>[SEATED]</h2>Okorie Johnson is an American cellist-songwriter who performs under the moniker OkCello. His artistry integrates cello performance, live-sound-looping, improvisation, and storytelling - all culminating in original compositions that collide classical with jazz, EDM, reggae, and funk.&nbsp;OkCello is inspired by the exploration of African Diasporic melodies and narratives and their intersection with people’s perceptions and assumptions about the classical and European nature of the cello.&nbsp; As well, his work with improvisation attempts to embody the phenomenon of wordless prayer.

OkCello

<h2>Doors at 7:30PM / Show at 8:00PM</h2>Jenerator is the Bay Area-based&nbsp;love child of bassist/singer/songwriter&nbsp;Jen Rund. Jen’s bass has taken her all over the western United States and Canada, as well as the UK, Ireland, Germany and Netherlands. Performing and recording in many genres - psychedelic jam funk (Talley Up!), jazz/funk/soul (Mangobus), folk/Americana (The Real Sarahs), reggae (Lumanation), straight-ahead rock (Infinite Frequency), and R&amp;B/soul (Soulman Sam) - has given her exeperience in, and appreciation for, a wide variety of musical forms. She is also deeply influenced by the Grateful Dead, and you can find her keeping the music alive with other jam lovers at various venues around the Bay and beyond. Jenerator’s signature sound is one part lively Americana, one part gritty blues, and one part searing rock-n-roll. Brought to life by a variety of Northern California’s top talent, Jenerator’s sound is continuously evolving; live performances leave plenty of room for the rich combination of stellar instrumentalists to shine alongside bandleader&nbsp;Jen Rund's compelling, smoky vocals and deep bass grooves. Original songs bring characters and the Western landscape to life with stories about the open road, the&nbsp;weirdness of being alive, and the joy of making music, interspersed with pointed, yet hopeful, social commentary. Rounding out live shows are favorite picks from venerated artists such as Tom Waits, Muddy Waters, Railroad Earth, Jerry Garcia, Bob Dylan, John Prine, and more, creating an uplifting and supremely danceable experience.&nbsp; With the release of their first recording, Home In Here, Jenerator is bringing their always fun, exciting sound to ever widening audiences across Northern California. Keep your ears peeled for a show near you! You can hear the album, and learn more about the band, at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.jeneratormusic.com">www.jeneratormusic.com</a>. You can also follow (and stream) Jenerator on all of your favorite digital platforms.

Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center

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