The School of American Music is proud to announce the debut of Jazz Fest 2025, a three-day musical celebration taking place September 12–14 across iconic venues in downtown Three Oaks, Michigan. This inaugural event honors the legacy of the late Garth Taylor, founder of the School of American Music, whose dream was to bring world-class jazz festival to the heart of Harbor Country.
Each day of the festival features a unique headlining performance, curated to highlight the rich diversity and emotional depth of jazz, from powerhouse vocalists and genre-defying ensembles to intimate brunch performances.
The School of American Music is proud to announce the addition of renown soprano, Martha Cares to our inaugural event lineup. Cares was working on a jazz collaboration with the school’s founder, the late Garth Taylor, at the time of his passing. It was only appropriate that she would open the Jazz Fest weekend that Garth was excited to bring to Harbor Country.
Martha will open the weekend on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 8:00pm at The Acorn Theater prior to the performance by Lynne Jordan and the Shivers. The rest of the Jazz Fest lineup is as follows:
Friday, Sept. 12 – 8 p.m.
Lynne Jordan and The Shivers
The Acorn Theater
Beloved Chicago performer Lynne Jordan kicks off the festival with her band The Shivers, delivering an unforgettable night of jazz, blues, funk, and soul. Known for her explosive stage presence and powerhouse vocals, Jordan’s performances have earned her a cult following at legendary venues like the Green Mill and City Winery. With roots in gospel and cabaret, she weaves storytelling and raw emotion into every note, setting the tone for a soulful weekend ahead.
Saturday, Sept. 13 – 8 p.m.
Steven Hashimoto Quartet
The Vickers Theatre
Longtime bassist and Chicago music legend Steven Hashimoto takes the stage Saturday with a dynamic quartet. Known for his work with adventurous jazz and rock groups such as Maestro Subgum & The Whole and Flippomusic GlobalJazz, Hashimoto blends tradition and experimentation. A veteran of the Green Mill’s After-Hours Jam and leader of numerous ensembles, Hashimoto brings deep experience, groove, and a distinctive Chicago edge to the festival lineup.
Sunday, Sept. 14 – 11:30 a.m.
Jeanne Franks – Jazz Sunday Brunch
Commune + Market
The festival closes with a stylish Jazz Brunch featuring vocalist Jeanne Franks, whose polished delivery of American jazz standards provides the perfect soundtrack for a relaxed Sunday gathering. With a voice that radiates warmth and sophistication, Franks transforms each performance into an intimate experience. Guests will enjoy live music alongside curated brunch offerings at Commune + Market, Three Oaks' artisan hub for food, art, and community.
Tickets are on sale now!
For event updates and ticket information, visit https://www.schoolofamericanmusic.com/events-tickets or follow the School of American Music on Facebook at facebook.com/schoolofamericanmusic.
About the School of American Music
Founded in 2013, 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.