I've read code section 12.56.010 and the sections that follow it, and it is only "sound amplifying equipment" that is prohibited if used in an unreasonably loud way. Amplified music, radios etc are included, but acoustic instruments are not. Unless you're talking about a designated "quiet zone", which a public park is not. It might be annoying but it doesn't violate 12.56.010 and 12.56.020.

Have you called the Park Rangers to see if they can help?

Hi Susan.
Actually I copied the 12.56.010 from the signs that used to be posted at the entrances to the park before the big renovation. The aforementioned OMC did specifically prohibit the playing of musical instruments without a permit. 12. 64.120. does address the amplified music situation. The new sign posted at the entrance ot the park by the library apparantly has superceded the 12.56. 010 and is now listed as 12.64.260 (musical instruments w/o a permit) and 12.64.120 addresses the amplified sound issue.
Marvin

Hi Marvin,
I don't know about the signs, but I read the actual code sections and it seems clear to me that 12.56.010 defines "sound amplifying equipment" as being electrical amplification devices only, and 12.64.120 prohibits the use of such electrical amplification equipment without a permit etc. I don't see any section 12.64.260 at all. You can read the code here: http://library.municode.com/index.aspx?clientId=16308.

I don't care that much either way, but I once had a case involving this issue and so had some familiarity with the code sections.
Best,
Susan

Thank you for your request. According to our system, we already have an open service request at this location. Your service request has been combined with service request # 454517 . If you would like to check the status of the request, please contact the Public Works Call Center at (510) 615-5566 or pwacallcenter@oaklandnet.com.
This issue can also be followed by watching http://seeclickfix.com/issues/516694

City of Oakland Public Works Agency addressed this issue on 07/18/2013, service request # 454517.

Thanks for fixing this issue!