More Than Just a Musical Offering

On Thursday afternoons, the small cafe at 2430 Bancroft Way is normally filled with the sounds of a lively jazz trio, bustling crowds and its staff. Normally comprised of an upright bassist, drummer and pianist from Berkeley (either the university or city), the small band plays a soulful and passionate set at Musical Offering Cafe that echoes down the street.

Music enthusiasts and Berkeley regulars settle into the cafe to do their work alongside the band, or simply to sit and enjoy witnessing how the performers become one with their instruments as they solo and play off of one another. There is a distinct community at this small cafe; after a few visits and conversations, you will begin to recognize a face or two among the room— the music brings everyone together and offers more than just a pleasant environment to work.

One particular Thursday, a member from their audience was spontaneously featured as they played a tune that differed from the trio’s normal genre of jazz. She smoothly melded into the sound with soulful scatting and bits of singing in French. Although this was very different from the typical performance at the cafe, the trio did not seem any less in sync than if it had been perfectly anticipated. Later on, two piano players were switching out intermittently, never missing a beat, and adding their own distinct solos and flairs to each number. 

Lately, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 40-year-old gem that is Musical Offering Cafe is struggling to get by; unable to host their live music performances, the only means of profit and foot traffic they gather are for their lunches and four course pre-fixe dinner sales. Sadly only making about 6-7% of their normal sales, this classic Berkeley cafe is turning to the community for support and opening a GoFundMe page which is far from reaching its goal. 

The loss of this cafe would be extremely unfortunate since it has served as a safe place and community where people of all backgrounds can gather and appreciate music. For me personally, it was the birthplace of many lasting friendships that I have made during my time at UC Berkeley, as I would stop by every Thursday and study among the rotating group of visitors from the nearby residence halls. This peaceful cafe among the bustling Berkeley streets allowed for those who walked through its doors to forget all of their responsibilities and unwind.

To all music-enthusiasts out there, whether you delve into jazz or not, this spot is definitely worth supporting. Until you can either revisit or discover this cafe in the future, visit them and grab a bite and a coffee. Hopefully, they will be able to open by the end of the pandemic and will welcome us all back, giving us a community where we can all broaden our musical horizons as we enjoy a meal, a drink, or simply relax. And if you haven’t had the privilege of enjoying their live performances in the past, grab yourself a cup of coffee, pop on some headphones and listen to the this playlist inspired by the Musical Offering jazz trio’s set, until you can enjoy their tunes live:

Article by Tovah Popilsky

Art by Jessie Yang