Musical Story Time @The Freight

with The Story Time Band

Music, Movement, and Stories for Children

Please join us at The Freight, one of Berkeley's oldest and most beloved music venues, for a special series of musical story time with The Story Time Band! These FREE events will take place on Thursdays, 9/3, 10/1, and 11/5, and 12/3 at 10:30 am (doors open at 10:00 am), and will feature live music, movement activities, and read-aloud stories for children ages 2-7. See you there!

Location: 

The Freight, 2020 Addison St. in Berkeley

History of the Band

What began in 2013 as a small musical story time at Berkeley’s Claremont Branch Library has grown into one of the East Bay’s most beloved family traditions. Founded by children’s librarian Michael Kwende (“Mr. Michael”) and retired librarian and guitarist Tim DeWolf, The Story Time Band is now a dynamic ensemble featuring children’s librarian, Juan Castille, library specialist, Donovan Russell, and longtime Berkeley resident and keyboardist Tienne Lee.

Blending live music, storytelling, movement, and audience participation, the group transforms books into vibrant, interactive experiences. Children and caregivers don’t just listen, they sing, dance, laugh, and become part of the story.

Since its early days in the library, The Story Time Band has expanded to parks, theaters, festivals, and community spaces across the Bay Area. Regularly drawing packed crowds, the ensemble has appeared at KQED Fest, The Freight, the Bay Area Book Festival, Oakland’s Fairyland, and San Quentin’s Family Day, bringing joy and connection to hundreds of families.

With infectious energy, a deep sense of community, and a distinctive fusion of music and storytelling, The Story Time Band is redefining family entertainment, creating joyful shared experiences and inspiring a lifelong love of books.

Since 2024, the group’s visual world has been shaped by band artist @jromonkey (Jerome Lu), whose vibrant work reflects its playful, imaginative spirit.