In 2009, Jesse Palidofsky, Janey Maneely, and Glen Yakushiji began talking about creating a folk music venue in Takoma Park; a community that supports folk music with its own folk music store, and a well-respected annual folk music festival. We wanted to contribute to that tradition by making a place where musicians were welcome to present their best work (and be fairly paid for it), and where their listeners could trust they would hear great music whenever they came.

Carroll Cafe was launched in 2010 with our first world-class performer: Bob Zentz. Since that first limited season we have been alive for fifteen years, and many incredible performers have shared their dedication and inspiration with us: Jennifer Cutting and OCEAN, Magpie, Sparky and Rhonda Rucker, Phil Wiggins, Tom Prasada-Rao, Ruthie and the Wranglers, Kim and Reggie Harris, and so many more.

Besides the musicians who joined us, we appreciate Seekers Church who created the beautiful space that allowed us to do our work, and especially the people who have supported us by coming out to hear great performances. We will always remember and be grateful for the life you have given us by your interest and attention.

Seekers Church encourages everyone to let things go when there is no longer energy to support the work and effort.  And so, we honor that permission by closing the venue. Who knows… in the future someone may continue this ministry by once again offering great quality music to a loving community.

Glen Yakushiji, Sandra Miller, Doug Dodge, Denise LeClair, Margreta Silverstone