WORCESTER – (Staff Report from Official News Release) – For decades, former Red Sox front office veep Dr. Charles Steinberg has helped shape the soundtrack of baseball – from iconic ballpark traditions to original songs that celebrate the spirit of the game. On Friday, May 8, he’ll bring that blend of music and baseball history to Worcester as the inaugural musical feature of the National Baseball Poetry Festival.
Steinberg’s session, scheduled from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Polar Park, will feature live performances of baseball songs, WooSox favorites, and mascot-themed music, along with behind-the-scenes stories drawn from his career in professional baseball. The program will conclude with an open Q&A, giving fans and families the chance to hear firsthand about the traditions, personalities, and moments that have defined the game’s cultural legacy. Participation in the session is free and open to the public.
A longtime baseball executive, educator, and musician, Steinberg has held leadership roles with the Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Commissioner of Baseball’s office, and the Pawtucket and later Worcester Red Sox, where he has been widely recognized for blending sports, entertainment, and community engagement. He is also known for his contributions to some of baseball’s most beloved traditions, including helping bring music and storytelling into the ballpark experience in ways that connect generations of fans.
“Ever since childhood, I have enjoyed baseball’s soundtrack,” said Steinberg. “Music can connect families, friends, and crowds in an endearing and enduring way. Many have recognized for decades that baseball is a game for poets; the opportunity to celebrate those words, to write those lyrics, and to add the music has been among the greatest privileges of my career. You can feel its impact.”
Among his many memorable moments in the game, Steinberg has shared stories about the origins and popularity of fan-favorite songs at ballparks – illustrating how music can transform a game into a shared cultural experience. His upcoming appearance at the Festival will offer an opportunity to hear those stories directly from the source, while also enjoying the music that has become part of baseball’s fabric.
“Dr. Charles Steinberg represents the very best of what makes baseball special – its traditions, its stories, and the way it brings people together,” said Steven Biondolillo, founder of the National Baseball Poetry Festival. “Having him join us as our inaugural musical feature adds a whole new dimension to the Festival experience. It gives attendees the chance to hear the music of the game directly from someone who has helped shape its sound and spirit for generations, and it’s another example of how we continue to grow the event in creative and meaningful ways.”
Steinberg has been instrumental in the establishment of such Fenway Park anthems as “Sweet Caroline,” “Tessie,” and “I’m Shippin’ Up to Boston,” as well as “Hells Bells” in San Diego, “Don’t Stop Believin’” in Los Angeles, plus his own compositions. His appearance is part of the fourth annual National Baseball Poetry Festival, which will take place May 7-10, 2026, primarily at Polar Park, home of the Worcester Red Sox. Founded in 2022, the Festival celebrates the intersection of baseball and the fine arts, bringing together poets, educators, students, and fans for a weekend of readings, workshops, performances, and ball games.