His music is like a time machine, transporting the audience to a long-gone era: Seth Shumate plays old-time music with such virtuosity and inventiveness that it is a real joy to listen to him. Old-time is considered one of the oldest forms of music in the USA, drawing on the folklore of European immigrants, the music of indigenous peoples, and African slaves. The repertoire of the young American with Scottish roots ranges from pre-war solo masterpieces to fiddle melodies, early ragtime, country, and jug band pieces.

He received his first harmonica – a Blue Danube – from his aunt when he was seven years old. He travelled to Scotland and learned traditional tunes, but the old-time music of his childhood was always present. His music is reminiscent of his great-grandmother, who lived in the Ozarks in Arkansas and played quills (a type of pan flute), and the harmonica. His grandparents also played the harmonica. Seth continues the family tradition with his music. He plays with well-known old-time string bands such as The Ozark Highballers and The Stones River Reelers, helping to keep alive the important role of the harmonica in traditional American music.

In Berlin, Seth Shumate will be accompanied by harmonica player and guitarist Andrew Larson.