The School of American Music (SAM) is proud to announce Jazz Fest 2026: The Art of the Song, a dynamic three-day festival celebrating the voices, stories, and spirit of jazz through world-class performances, intimate venues, and community connection.
Taking place September 18–20, 2026, Jazz Fest will bring acclaimed national and regional artists to Three Oaks for an unforgettable weekend of music, culminating in a Sunday jazz brunch. This year’s festival also offers new ticketing options, including individual day passes, General Admission Weekend Passes, and VIP Weekend Passes, giving attendees flexibility to experience the festival their way.
The weekend begins with a special preview screening of the classic jazz film Paris Blues on Thursday, September 17 at The Vickers Theatre (6 N. Elm Street), setting the stage for a weekend immersed in the history and artistry of jazz.
Friday, September 18 | The Acorn Theater
Wildflowers: Kurt Elling with Ben Paterson
VIP Reception: 6:00 PM ET
Former Alapash Mercantile, 111 N. Elm Street
Concert: 8:00 PM ET
The Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Drive
Jazz Fest opens with Grammy Award-winning vocalist Kurt Elling, widely regarded as one of the most innovative and expressive jazz singers of his generation. Known for his rich baritone, poetic lyricism, and fearless improvisation, Elling brings his signature artistry to Wildflowers, a collaborative performance with acclaimed pianist Ben Paterson.
Paterson, praised for his virtuosic technique, blues-infused style, and playful creativity, has become one of the most exciting pianists on the contemporary jazz scene. Together, Elling and Paterson promise a powerful evening of interpretation, spontaneity, and musical storytelling.
Saturday, September 19 | The Vickers Theatre
1:00 PM ET
Merrimans’ Playhouse Players Open Mic Showcase
Saturday afternoon begins with the beloved Merrimans’ Playhouse Players, bringing together some of the region’s finest jazz musicians for an energetic opening set, followed by an Open Mic Showcase highlighting emerging local talent and creating space for spontaneous musical collaboration.
6:00 PM ET
Patti Schaffner with Leandro Lopez Varady + Buddy Pearson
Vocalist and songwriter Patti Schaffner brings her distinctive blend of jazz, soul, and storytelling to the stage. Known for her emotionally rich performances and dynamic phrasing, Schaffner will be joined by guitarist Leandro Lopez Varady, whose sophisticated harmonic style and global influences create a compelling musical landscape, alongside bassist Buddy Pearson, a respected fixture in the regional jazz community known for his deep groove and versatility.
8:00 PM ET
Sam Burckhardt with Jeremy Kahn + Jake Vinsel
Saturday evening’s headliner features internationally respected saxophonist Sam Burckhardt, known for his bold improvisational voice and deep roots in straight-ahead jazz. Burckhardt has performed with jazz luminaries around the world and brings both intensity and elegance to the stage. Joining him is pianist Jeremy Kahn, a masterful accompanist and inventive soloist, along with bassist Jake Vinsel, whose dynamic playing anchors the trio with rhythmic precision and melodic depth.
Sunday, September 20 | Commune + Market
Jazz Sunday Brunch | 12:30 PM ET
105 N. Elm Street
Jazz Fest concludes with the ever-popular Jazz Sunday Brunch, featuring celebrated vocalist Jeanne Franks with Mark Burnell and Josh Ramos. Known for her warm, soulful voice and expressive interpretations, Franks has built a devoted following throughout the Midwest. Her style bridges jazz standards, blues, and contemporary influences with ease and authenticity. She will be joined by guitarist Mark Burnell, known for his rich harmonic sensibility and elegant phrasing, and percussionist Josh Ramos, whose rhythmic versatility brings vibrant texture and energy to the ensemble.
“Jazz Fest is about more than performances, it’s about bringing people together through music and celebrating the incredible artistry that jazz offers,” said Heidi Smith, Executive Director of the School of American Music. “This year’s theme, The Art of the Song, reflects the storytelling, improvisation, and connection that make jazz so powerful.”
Tickets for Jazz Fest 2026 are on sale now and can be purchased at:
School of American Music: https://www.schoolofamericanmusic.com/events-tickets
The Acorn Theater (Friday, Saturday + Sunday tickets): https://www.acornlive.org/events/wildflowers-9-18-26/
For sponsorship opportunities, festival updates, and full event details, contact Heidi Smith, executive director at executivedirector@schoolofamericanmusic.com.
About the School of American Music
Founded in 2012, the School of American Music (SAM) is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to making music education and performance accessible to all in Harbor Country and beyond. Through concerts, classes, outreach programs, and festivals, SAM celebrates the power of music to connect, inspire, and transform lives.