What is Old Time?

What is old time?

Old time music is the string band music that kept Americans humming along before the invention of the radio or the steam engine. It’s a musical tradition that grew out of the cultural diversity of the southeastern United States and has been passed down through the generations. ‘Old time’ isn’t a term that refers to any music that sounds older than the hills — it’s a specific style of string band music with fiddle, banjo, and guitar that pre-dates Bluegrass and influences much of modern American music.

The culture around old time music is more about participation than performance. Old time music is about having a good time with friends — it’s shared in living rooms and at informal gatherings more often than on a stage. If you are new to old time music, one of the best ways to get acquainted is by finding a nearby square dance or listening at an old time jam. Our events page will let you know upcoming opportunities to start getting involved with old time music and the fun, inclusive community that goes along with it.