New York City's multi-genre string music festival centering BIPOC artists — across classical, jazz, hip-hop, roots, and experimental sound.
The Story
Redefining string music
Ode to the Black Fiddler is a dynamic one-day experience celebrating string musicians of color working across classical, jazz, hip-hop, roots, and experimental genres.
Founded in 2017 and powered by IAH Studio, the festival blends performances, DJs, food, vendors, and direct connections between artists and audiences — redefining string music while developing the next generation of cultural creators.
Past · Present · Future
The Festival Through the Years
The 10th Annual Festival
A milestone year on St. Nicholas Avenue in Harlem — a full day of genre-bending string music, vendors, food, and community, centering BIPOC artists.
A Growing Movement
Since 2017, Ode to the Black Fiddler has brought together 30+ artists across genres, building a platform that centers string musicians of color and the communities around them.
Meet the PerformersBuilding the Future
We're growing the festival with new programming, partnerships, and opportunities for emerging cultural creators.
Support the MissionTickets
Get Your Tickets
10th Annual OBF Music Festival
Join us for a milestone year of genre-bending string music, vendors, food, and community in Harlem. Secure your spot for the 10th Annual Ode to the Black Fiddler.
Get Tickets on Eventbrite ↗The Experience
The Festival in Your Pocket
On event day, unlock the official OBF companion app — your live guide to the whole festival. Explore an interactive Harlem map, follow the schedule and set times, scan fiddlers on a scavenger hunt, climb the leaderboard, and share your day.
Alumni
Artists Who've Graced Our Stages
A few of the 30+ performers who've been part of Ode to the Black Fiddler over the years.
Vendors
Become a 2026 Vendor
Be part of the 2026 vendor lineup and showcase your products, mission, or creative work at one of NYC's most distinctive music festivals. Apply now to join our curated marketplace.
🏛️ Indoor — Harlem School of the Arts
$125 · single space (10×10 ft)
$75 · shared space, per vendor (2 max)
🎪 Outdoor — St. Nicholas Ave
$150 · single space (10×10 ft)
$85 · shared space, per vendor (2 max)
Get Involved
Be Part of OBF
Gallery