Berkeley Festival of Choro Tickets

The Berkeley Festival of Choro brings the vibrant Brazilian instrumental style of choro to the Bay Area, blending European classical roots, Afro-Brazilian rhythms, and jazz into an engaging live experience. Founded in 2013 by Jane Lenoir and Brian Rice, the festival operates as a fiscally sponsored affiliate of InterMusic SF and has grown into a key platform for education, community, and performance. Expect student workshops, public rodas, and an ever-evolving lineup that highlights both seasoned performers and rising stars in the choro world.

In 2025, the festival marks its 10th edition, taking place April 17–20 across Albany, Berkeley, Oakland, San Jose, and Santa Cruz. Venues range from intimate spaces like the opening free performance at the Berkeley Hillside Club to a grand finale at Orange Music Studio in San Jose. The festival also champions the Berkeley Choro Ensemble (BCE) and ongoing collaborations that nurture the next generation of choro players.

Make the most of this insider-friendly scene: secure your seats early, join a roda, and follow the festival’s official channels for timely updates and behind-the-scenes stories. We’ve got you covered with reliable, straightforward options to enjoy this uniquely Brazilian genre in Northern California.

Beyond performances, the Berkeley Festival of Choro emphasizes education and community engagement. BCE and festival organizers offer workshops for students and public rodas that invite players of all levels to learn, improvise, and connect. The 2025 lineup features standout guests including Daniela Spielmann, Clarice Cast, Catherine Bent, and Sheila Zagury, who bring extensive backgrounds in choro and related Brazilian music traditions. For fans and curious newcomers alike, the festival is a trusted gateway to immersive choro experiences in the Bay Area and beyond.

Social media presence is woven into the festival experience, with active links on berkeleyfestival.org to Instagram and Facebook. Follow along with official updates, performance schedules, and artist announcements to stay in the loop. And if you’re planning a multi-city Bay Area tour, remember: we’ll help you find the right seats, secure your passes, and keep the process simple and transparent.