2026 Danny Barker Banjo and Guitar Festival

Saturday, March 21, 2026
Kick off the festivities with our 2nd Annual Inaugural Golf Tournament at Joe Bartholomew Golf Course. Swing to the rhythm of the beat and start the celebration in style. Sign up here.

Tuesday, March 24, 2026
We officially kick off the festival with a Patron Party at the Terrell House Bed & Breakfast, featuring spectacular performances to set the tone for this year’s Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival.

Wednesday, March 25, 2026
We welcome Cynthia Sayer as our guest artist. She will lead a lecture and clinic for students and the public, alongside New Orleans’ own Don Vappie, at the New Orleans Jazz Museum.
Clinic time: 1:00–3:00 PM

The day concludes with the Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival Gala Night, from 6:00–9:00 PM at the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA). Enjoy enchanting performances by the incredibly talented Doreen Ketchens, special guests Cynthia Sayer and Don Vappie, and a show-stopping finale by the Queen of New Orleans Soul, Irma Thomas. This is an evening you won’t want to miss.

Thursday, March 26, 2026
Banjo and Guitar Clinic will be held at the University of New Orleans, featuring lectures by Steve Masakowski, John Rankin, and Seva Venet.
That evening, enjoy a special performance by Cynthia Sayer with Don Vappie at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, with two shows at 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM. Tickets are available on the Snug Harbor website.

March 27–29, 2026
The Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival continues with three immersive days at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Check out the detailed agenda for a lineup of exceptional artists and events, and show your support for the musicians who enrich our cultural landscape.

The Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival not only celebrates the musical heritage of New Orleans but also actively contributes to its preservation and evolution. The festival stands as a testament to Danny Barker’s enduring legacy and the unbreakable spirit of New Orleans’ musical community.

Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of music! This year’s Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival offers exciting opportunities to explore the rich history of New Orleans, its vibrant culture, and the legendary contributions of Danny Barker.Venues:
Joseph M. Bartholomew Municipal Golf Courset

6514 Congress Dr, New Orleans, LA 70126
Terrell House Bed & Breakfast
1441 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130
New Orleans Museum of Arts (NOMA)
1 Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans, LA 70124
UNO - Performing Arts Center - Room 215
2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans, LA 70148
University of New Orleans at the intersection of St. Anthony Ave & Milneburg Rd.
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro
626 Frenchmen Street, New Orleans , LA 70116
New Orleans Jazz Museum
400 Esplanade Avenue New Orleans, LA 70116

Join us for an incredible lineup of events:

Whether you’ve been a lifelong fan or are seeking a cultural adventure, this festival invites you to embrace the melodies that connect us all—promising an experience filled with joy and inspiration.

Info: Performers: Gregg Stafford, Mari Watanabe, Dr. Michael White, Mitchell Player, Frank Nandorf, Bruce "Sunpie" Barnes, Herman LeBeaux and Detroit Brooks.

Info: We are honored to welcome special guest Cynthia Sayer, along with New Orleans’ finest, Don Vappie, who will lead a banjo clinic for students and the public. They will present a lecture on the history of the banjo and perform music by Mr. Barker, offering a rich blend of education and live performance.

Info: The Danny Barker Banjo and Guitar Festival presents a Special Gala Night, an unforgettable evening celebrating the rich musical legacy of New Orleans. The night features outstanding performances by the Doreen Ketchens Band (6:30–7:00 PM), followed by the dynamic duo Cynthia Sayer and Don Vappie (7:05–8:05 PM), and concludes with a special performance by the legendary Irma Thomas (8:20–9:00 PM). Join us for a night of exceptional music honoring tradition, artistry, and the enduring spirit of Danny Barker.

Info: The Danny Barker Festival presents a music clinic at the University of New Orleans, open to students and the public. Lectures will be led by John Rankin, Steve Masakowski, and Seva Venet, who will discuss the history of New Orleans music and culture, with a special focus on the lasting contributions and influence of Danny Barker on the city’s musical legacy.

Info: Interview by David Kunian

Info: Interview by Gregg Stafford

Info: Interview by Jon Pult

Info: Interview by Al Colon

Info: Interview by Ben Sandmel

Info: Interview by Sally Young

Info: Interview by TBA

Info: Interview by TBA

Info: Interview by Fred Kasten

Info: Fairview Baptist Church Pastor Chris Sylvain, Minister George Brooks, Jr., and Minister Tara Alexander.

Info: Interview by Gwen Thompkins

Info: Interview by Eric Cager

Info: Interview by Norbert Susemihil

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