The FLORIDA OLD TIME MUSIC CHAMPIONSHIP has been conducted since 1982. Originally held at the Pioneer Florida Museum, the FLORIDA OLD TIME MUSIC CHAMPIONSHIP was started to help preserve and promote traditional old time music in Florida. It was started by individuals desiring to encourage participation and the passing on of old time music to future generations. It was the brainchild of master Ernie Williams, "Poppa Doc Ernie." His underlings, Dennis Devine and Jim Stickland (Mr Ethnic), did all the dirty work that Ernie didn't want to do. He basically only wanted to play the banjo and party. Some of the "elders" that inspired these once young men were Doc Fleming and Cousin Thelma Boltin. Doc Fleming lived in Dade City and was a director at the White Springs Florida Folk Festival. Cousin Thelma had family in Dade City and started the Heart of Florida Folk Festival in Dade City. She was also the director and master storytelling at White Springs Florida Folk Festival.

The concept of old time music is not static, decisions concerning what is appropriate are ultimately subjective. The evolution of old time music and the folk process in general take place within the boundaries of good taste, though difficult to state, are nevertheless familiar to those knowledgeable of the idiom. Contestants are urged to exercise their own good taste and intuitive grasp of the spirit of old time music.

The judges will award points in the following categories; expression, rhythm, timing, execution, taste, choice of tunes, ease and confidence in performance.All contestants will be judged by a panel of three judges, except Senior Fiddle, Banjo, and Band categories, and the Flemming Award, Banjo and Band will be judged by the Guest(s) of Honor, as well as the panel.

No electric instruments, drums, or recorded music will be permitted in nay category, for any reason. Electric pickups will not be permitted. Detailed rules of the FLORIDA OLD TIME MUSIC CHAMPIONSHIP are available are are provided with the Championship flyer.

Guest Judges are selected from master old time musicians from throughou the Southern United States. Finalists will be selected in the Senior Fiddle and Old Time Banjo categories. Winners will be selected from the first round of competition in all other categories unless a second round is requested by the judges.