2026 Savannah Music Festival Program Book by Savannah Music Festival

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From the first note to the last,

SEDA congratulates

The Savannah Music Festival on creating a masterpiece of musical celebration and cultural connection.

www. seda.org savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Corporate Sponsors, Government Supporters & Media Partners................. 8 Concert Circle Contributors................... 9 From the Mayor of Savannah.................11 From the Board Chair............................13 From the Festival Directors....................15 About Savannah Music Festival............ 17 SMF Features Always Around Music: Bob Faircloth... 22 Mendelssohn Meets Mercer................ 40 Generation-defining Blues Musicians.................................... 50 Men of Unbridled Musical Joy............. 62

Savannah Music Festival 2026

Community Impact

Wednesday, March, 25................... 20-24

From the Superintendent of SCCPSS....67

Thursday, March 26....................... 25-29

Explorer Pass........................................ 68

Friday, March 27............................. 30-33

Musical Explorers................................. 69

Saturday, March 28........................ 34-38

SMF Jazz Acadamy.............................. 70

Sunday, March 29..................................41 Monday, March 30................................ 42

Support Savannah Music Festival........ 72

Tuesday, March 31..........................43-44

Area Map / Venues............................... 74

Wednesday, April 1......................... 45-47

Ticket Info & Policies............................ 75

Thursday, April 2.............................48-51

VIP Wristband Experience.................... 76

Friday, April 3.................................. 52-57

About the 2026 Festival Poster...... 78-79

Saturday, April 4............................. 58-64 Sunday, April 5...................................... 65

Supporters Donors & Sponsors......................... 82-86 Headquarters Fund Contributors......... 85 Lifetime Giving...................................... 85 Committees........................................... 86 Festival Support.................................... 86 2026 Volunteers............................. 87-88 In Memoriam......................................... 89 Meet SMF.............................................. 90

SMF2017, The Wood Brothers Photo by Elizabeth Leitzell

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Just as Georgia’s first city, Savannah, relied on unique planning and the experience and knowledge of its founders, First City Capital Management adheres to disciplined planning and draws on the more than a century’s experience of its management in the care and growth of its “A View of Savannah as it Stood the 29th of March, 1734.” By Peter Gordon.

E. Lane Curlee, III, CIO President E. Lane Curlee, IV Vice President

Edgar L. T. Gay, CFA Chairman Emeritus

John P. Skeadas, III, CFA, J.D., MBA Vice President

Proud Sponsor of Sebastian Knauer: Bach & Sons

clients’ assets. Investment Management Trust & Estate Administration 136 Habersham Street, Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 233-5492 Toll Free (866) 257-1415 www.FirstCityCapitalManagement.com

It’s your financial path. Design it your way. On life’s journey, you’ll make many important decisions and everyday choices. Those are the moments we’re here for— with expert guidance and the services you need to prosper. Saving for a car, buying your first home, starting a business or planning for retirement. You tell us. We’ll work at your cadence with a constant eye on your success.

CadenceBank.com

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Extended Festival Hours! Sunday & Monday Tuesday - Thursday Friday & Saturday

8am - 3pm 8am - 9pm 8am - 10pm

325 E. Bay St. bmatthewseatery.com

(912) 233-1319

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CORPORATE SPONSORS, GOVERNMENT SUPPORTERS & MEDIA PARTNERS In-Kind Sponsors

FOUNDER

DIAMOND

♪

PLATINUM

DIAMOND

♪ PLATINUM

♪

★

GOLD GOLD

SILVER

♪

★ BRONZE

♪

BRONZE

FESTIVAL SOCIETY

♪

★

♪

45 Bistro • Fairfield Inn & Suites Midtown • Great Dane • Holiday Inn Express • John Davis Florist Lucky Savannah Vacation Rentals Shot by Somi Studios • Staging By Design LLC

Media Sponsors

FESTIVAL SOCIETY Bernard Williams & Company, LLC • Georgia Ports Authority Great Dane ♪ • Liza DiMarco Luxury Real Estate ★ Savannah Music Festival is supported in part by the Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly. Georgia Council for the Arts also receives support from its partner agency— the National Endowment for the Arts. To find out more about how NEA grants impact individuals and communities, visit www.arts.gov.

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CONCERT CIRCLE CONTRIBUTORS FOUNDER

Bob Faircloth Kimberly & Myles Gillespie The Wall Lynch Family ♪ Ron & Susan Whitaker ♪ DIAMOND

Charles A. Frueauff Foundation ♪ Diana Lee Langer Jones

Charles & Rosalie Morris Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly

Rhegan White-Clemm & Timothy Clemm ★

PLATINUM

Richard Kessler Jeff & LeeAnn Kole J C Lewis Foundation, Inc. Vicki McElreath Tom & Ruth McMullin

Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Anderson Stephanie Bell-Rose & Chris Rose Joseph & Susan Dockman ♪ Marla & Morris Geffen ♪ David & Caroline Johnson

Wilson Morris Jackie & Stephen Rabinowitz Maura Sovchen ♪ Robin & Sandy Stuart Pamela & Peter Voss

GOLD

The Courtney Knight Gaines Foundation ♪ The Hodge Foundation ♪ Bill & Bev Jaques Bill & Becky Keightley Margie & B.H. Levy, Jr.

Einar & Betsey Andersen ♪ Anonymous Ira P. Berman & Helen A. Borrello Joel Canter & Amanda Bodian Maria & Bill Dascombe Connie & Glen Darbyshire

Dayle & Aaron Levy Larry Pike Family Charitable Fund Winston & Alma Pittman Joyce Roché & Johnie Seals ♪ Shelby G. Schavoir Susan Willetts & Alan Pritz

SILVER

Kiwanis Club of Skidaway ♪ Dave Lake & Linda Wright Marysue McCarthy Dave & Sylvaine Neises The One Hundred Children’s Foundation ♪ Regina & Rick Roney Tom Ryley & Hilary Robinson

Walter G. Canipe Foundation ♪ Jessica Carter & Family The Chatham Foundation Dorothea & Tim Coy Chris & Staci Donegan Steve & Carter Eagle Find Your Light Foundation ♪ Farina & Christopher Kingsley

R.D. Sachdev & Adrienne Williams Jack Sanderson Susan Snow & John Nell The Solomons Fund Mr. & Mrs. John Tucker Nina & Bill Weil Harold & Peggy Yellin

BRONZE

Anonymous ♪ The Hugh & Charlene Armstrong Family Charitable Fund Kelley & Neil Berman Peter & Cindy Blodgett Tom & Susie Boardman Carole & Gene Brogdon Friends of the Savannah Music Festival

Brenda Kenworthy Richard K. Lane Chad & Barbara Lawson Linda McWhorter Marianna & Frank Mirabello Phillipa S. & James L. Montag Harry & Vanita Morgan Mrs. Ellen O’Bannon ♪

Charlie Pohl & Dr. Janice Nevin Cindy Prutzman & Gordon Taylor Alex & Fonda Salgueiro Marti & Austin Sullivan Mike & Elizabeth Sweeney Bill & Denise Thompson

♪ Thank you to these donors and sponsors who gave in whole or in part to support Savannah Music Festival’s community impact programs. Please see pages 68-73 for more information about these efforts. ★ Part of this gift is in-kind.

Listing above as of 03.02.2026 savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

GEORGIA EXCELLENCE We celebrate 65+ years of success powered by the talent and strength of our workforce. We look forward to continuing our investment in Georgia as we innovate for the future of business aviation.

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1/20/26 2:43 PM

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HILTON HEAD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA JOHN MORRIS RUSSELL, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Photo: thefrenchguy photography

HILTON HEAD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

44TH SEASON

xperience the passion, drama, and beauty of opera’s greatest moments as the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra presents Opera Night—an unforgettable evening of beloved arias, choruses, and overtures.

Opera Night First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island This special program features the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra Chorus alongside acclaimed soprano Elizabeth Baldwin and baritone Chad Sonka of the Savannah VOICE Festival, in an inspired artistic collaboration celebrating the power of the human voice. From Verdi and Puccini to Mozart, Bizet, and more, Opera Night brings the grand tradition of opera to life in a thrilling concert experience. With classical voices presented by Savannah VOICE Festival

For more information or to purchase tickets visit hhso.org or call the ticket office at (843) 842-2055.

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Savannah Music Festival Board of Directors Chair: David Johnson Partner, Speyside Partners Treasurer: Bill Keightley Retired, Group Chief Financial Officer, Marmon Holdings, Inc. Vice Chair: Ron Whitaker Chairman of the Board, Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. Secretary: Harold Yellin Partner, HunterMaclean Chairman Emeritus: Bob Faircloth (Ex-Officio) Retired International Executive and Community Benefactor Melissa Bouchillon Managing Partner, Sound View Wealth Advisors

Joe Marinelli (Ex-Officio) President, Visit Savannah

Dr. Jessica Carter Neurologist, Solo Practice

Olivia Parker Community Outreach Manager, Parker’s

Tim Coy Owner, Tim Coy Photography

Larry Pike Partner, Holland & Knight LLP

Glen Darbyshire Of Counsel, Bouhan Falligant LLP

Kacey Kennickell Ray Vice President, The Kennickell Group

Mary Armstrong Dugas (Immediate Past Chair) Owner, MAD Skills LLC and Founder/Executive Director of the Savannah Music Collective Steve Eagle Partner, Sterling Seacrest Prichard Mario Hilliard Market President, Cadence Bank Joe Howard Client Advisor, Critz Auto Group Brian Huskey Owner, Gaslight Group Bill Jaques President, Jaques & Company Monty Jones, Jr. OVG General Manager, Enmarket Arena & Savannah Civic Center: Martin Luther King Jr. Arena & Johnny Mercer Theatre Farina Wong Kingsley Culinary Instructor / Writer Jeff Kole President, Kole Investment Co.

From the Board Chair Welcome to the 37th season of the Savannah Music Festival. We believe that live music is transformational — both for concertgoers like you and for the thousands of Chatham County schoolchildren who participate in our music education programs. We are deeply grateful to our dedicated staff and committed volunteers who work tirelessly each year to bring the Festival to life. We also extend a warm welcome to the extraordinary musicians who share their talent and artistry with Savannah throughout these 12 unforgettable days. Enjoy the Festival.

Thomas V. Reilly Retired Chief Investment Officer, Putnam Investments Joyce Roché Retired, President and Chief Executive Officer, Girls Inc. David Sneed Senior Director of Contracts, Legal at Jet Aviation

David Johnson Chairman of the Board of Directors Savannah Music Festival

Zachary H. Thomas Zachary H. Thomas Law, P.C Trip Tollison (Ex-Officio) COO/VP, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and CVB May Wall Retired Partner, Winston & Strawn LLP Dr. Christopher Walls Vascular Surgeon, Savannah Vascular and Cardiac Institute Rhegan White-Clemm Retired Director, Sales and Marketing, Westphalian Elite Horse Auctions, Germany

B.H. Levy Attorney At Law, Bouhan Falligant LLP

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Savannah Music Festival Staff

From the Festival Directors

EXECUTIVE & ADMINISTRATION Sinisa Ciric Diana Lee Langer Jones Executive Director Steve Birrell Controller Judi Szenes Finance Assistant

ARTISTIC & PRODUCTION Ryan McMaken Artistic Director Philip Dukes Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Associate Artistic Director Abbey M. Matye Associate Director of Programming Bryan Bailey Technical Director Justice Maxey Artist Relations Coordinator Aubrie Racies Artist Relations Assistant Brenden Robertson Lead Audio Zach Karatassos Production Coordinator

DEVELOPMENT Kat Clark Associate Director of Development Katherine Mesri Institutional Giving Associate Kristopher Monroe Office Assistant

COMMUNITY IMPACT Jenny Woodruff Senior Director of Community Impact Benje Daneman Music Director, SMF Jazz Academy Aubrie Racies SMF Jazz Academy Associate Caroline Sorunke Community Impact Associate

MARKETING Grace Franklin Social Media & Website Aleccia Wood Branding & Design Klassikum, Creative Studio Marketing & Special Projects Lesley Francis Public Relations

SAVANNAH MUSIC FESTIVAL 120 E. 42ND ST., SAVANNAH, GA 31401 912.234.3378 savannahmusicfestival.org

Dear Friends, Each spring, as azaleas begin to color our squares and the salt air drifts in from the river, Savannah once again becomes a gathering place for sound. The Savannah Music Festival has always reflected this city—elegant yet unpretentious, historic yet forward-looking, gracious but ready to dance. This year, we’re proud to present a festival that feels more vibrant, more dynamic, and more intentionally shaped than ever before. In a new, more compact 12-day format, the 2026 Festival concentrates its energy. The result is a program that feels alive, ever-evolving, and deeply connected across genres. Masters stand shoulder to shoulder with rising stars; intimate moments give way to electrifying nights. Blues, jazz, and global roots traditions remain at the heart of who we are. We welcome icons and innovators alike: the fire of Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, the spirit of Old Crow Medicine Show, the unmistakable voice of Larkin Poe, the virtuosity of Pat Metheny, and the timeless artistry of the Robert Cray Band. At the same time, we celebrate the next wave—artists like Sierra Hull, Julian Lage, and Maxim Lando, who are reshaping their fields in real time. This dialogue between generations is intentional. It is how traditions stay alive. From the Sarod Trilogy led by Maestro Amjad Ali Khan to Saha Gnawa, from Dobet Gnahoré to Plena Libre, the Festival reflects Savannah’s enduring identity as a port city—where cultures meet, exchange, and create something new. The Hostess City welcomes the world once again. This year also brings the quiet excitement of new spaces joining familiar ones. Alongside beloved stages like the Lucas and Trustees Theaters, we embrace venues such as the luminous Regina Coeli Chapel at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, the Neises Auditorium at Telfair’s Jepson Center, and the Oglethorpe Ballroom at the DeSoto Hotel. Each setting adds a distinct texture to the Festival—intimate, elegant, and unmistakably Savannah. At the center of our classical music series is Associate Artistic Director Philip Dukes, whose vision continues to elevate this essential pillar of the Festival. With distinguished artists including Jack Liebeck, Sebastian Knauer, and the Escher String Quartet, these programs offer brilliance, depth, and connection. Presented in some of the city’s most inspiring spaces, they remind us that classical music breathes, surprises, and belongs fully within the living fabric of this Festival. Savannah’s cobblestones have carried centuries of stories. This Festival adds another chapter—one written in rhythm, harmony, improvisation, and shared experience. Whether you are discovering a new artist in a late-night set or hearing a beloved masterwork in a sacred space, you are part of what makes this community extraordinary. None of this—this ambitious schedule, these remarkable artists, these shared experiences— would be possible without the tireless efforts of our volunteers and crew members, and the generous support of our patrons, donors, and partners. On behalf of the entire SMF team, thank you for being an integral part of our musical community. Your belief in this Festival sustains it, strengthens it, and allows Savannah to continue shining as the most gracious of hosts. With gratitude and excitement,

Sinisa Ciric Diana Lee Langer Jones Executive Director

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Ryan McMaken Artistic Director

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

About Savannah Music Festival

SMF2019, Anda Union Photo by Elizabeth Leitzell

Savannah Music Festival (SMF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to presenting exceptional live music that entertains, educates, inspires, and unites communities. Operating year-round, SMF plans and produces its annual multi-day, multi-venue festival, a series of off-season concerts and a range of free community impact programs, including music education for local youth, professional development, residency programs, and artist Q&As. Now in its 37th season, the annual festival has evolved into one of the nation’s premier multi-genre music festivals. Over the years, its distinguished and innovative programming has drawn thousands of world-renowned artists from around the globe to perform for audiences in Savannah’s oak-lined Historic District. Hailed by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution as “one of the gleaming musical treasures of the Southeast” and by the Toronto Star as “one of North America’s most distinctive musical events,” the springtime festival is a nationally recognized event. Savannah Music Festival is committed to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of music through a variety of community engagement initiatives. Its Musical Explorers program provides free music education to students and teachers in more than 50 public, private, and home schools across urban and rural communities. This program has become the de facto music curriculum for K-2 students in the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Additionally, the SMF Jazz Academy, a year-round afterschool program, empowers students by instilling lifelong academic, social, and musical skills. SMF Jazz Academy

is also embarking on the formation of a big band project going into 2027. For more information on SMF’s Community Impact programs, see page 68. SMF records festival performances for statewide broadcast on Savannah Music Festival LIVE, a weekly public radio series now in its 18th season. The organization has also contributed concert recordings and programming to American Public Media’s Performance Today, WQXR/ WNYC, and NPR Music, and is featured monthly on KMUW’s syndicated program Global Village. Collaboration remains a cornerstone of SMF’s success. The festival has partnered with organizations such as the City of Savannah, Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD), Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, Lucas Theatre for the Arts, Savannah VOICE Festival, Savannah Philharmonic, American Traditions Vocal Collection, Savannah Stopover, Visit Savannah, Trustees’ Garden, Telfair Museums, Victory North, Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools, Trinity United Methodist Church, Congregation Mickve Israel, The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, 21st Century Learning Centers, Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute, Loop It Up Savannah, and many others. For a complete listing of artists presented by SMF since 2003, please visit the Program History page at www.savannahmusicfestival.org.

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Music. Dance. Drama. Art.

Your destination for inspiration, creativity and art of all forms.

Learn more at GPB.org 18

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A WORLD OF MUSIC. ONE CITY.

Seirra Hull & John Craigie Lucas Theatre for the Arts Wednesday, April 1, 7:00 PM savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

JONATHAN MAMORA Piano

Wednesday, March 25 | 6:00 PM Trinity United Methodist Church Sponsored by Jackie & Stephen Rabinowitz and Ron & Susan Whitaker Piano by Steinway & Sons

As part of a new partnership with the Hilton Head International Piano Competition, SMF is honored to present 2025 HHIPC First Prize winner Jonathan Mamora on the opening day of SMF 2026. Acclaimed for his “most assured pianism” and “natural, songful lyricism” by the Dallas Morning News, pianist and educator Mamora has performed with orchestras such as the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Orquesta Sinfónica de Madrid, and the New Mexico Philharmonic. He is the first-prize winner of a number of international piano

competitions, most recently the 2025 Hilton Head, 2023 Scottish, 2023 Maria Canals Barcelona, and 2022 Olga Kern. He has performed throughout North and South America, Europe, and Asia, with highlights including a 2023 debut at Carnegie Hall. “I find that my experiences in life give me the inspiration and thoughts to shape my convictions as an artist and a musician. After all, art is but a reflection of human life, human experiences, and human perspectives,” says Mamora. In addition to his SMF debut, Mamora’s current season recital engagements include the L’Auditori

SMF’S STUDENT SHOWCASE Wednesday, March 25 | 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM MLK Park at Plant Riverside

Festival Emergents in Barcelona, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and the Chopin Foundation of the US, among others. Alexander Scriabin Piano Sonata No. 5, Opus 53 Franz Schubert Moment Musical No. 6 in A-Flat Major, Opus 94, D. 780 Lowell Liebermann Moment Musical, Opus 144 Franz Liszt Après une lecture de Dante, Fantasia quasi Sonata Piano Sonata in B minor, S. 178

Against the backdrop of the Savannah River, student musicians from across Savannah will perform in the first-ever student showcase.

Funding for community impact programming is provided by the Wall Lynch Family.

Ensembles include: Charles Ellis Jazz Band Garrison Glee Club Heard Elementary Concert Band Jacob G. Smith Vibrant Voices Myers Middle Swamp Marching Band New Hampstead K-8 Night ‘N’ Gals Rice Creek Jazz Ensemble Savannah Christian Lower School Chorus Savannah Country Day Jazz & Rock Combo Savannah High School Wind Ensemble SING Children’s Choir Windsor Forest Mighty Marching Knights 20

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Proud Patron Hospitality Zone Partner of the Savannah Music Festival Visit municipalgrand.com to book your next stay. savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Always Around Music: Bob Faircloth Ryan McMaken, Artistic Director

Savannah Music Festival’s Chairman Emeritus recently shared stories about how his love of music developed.

He took advantage of the vibrant music scene there, remembering Rockhead’s Paradise, a Black-owned jazz club in the Little Burgundy neighborhood that was Oscar Growing up in northwest Ontario, Bob Faircloth’s early Peterson’s Montreal spot. After Montreal, they moved to musical exposure began when his mother urged him Vienna and later England. Faircloth was a record buyer, and two of his six siblings to take piano lessons from the and built up a collection of records that he wishes he nuns at a local convent. Although he didn’t stick with the still had. In London, they saw a lot of live music and instrument, one of his sisters went on to be a very good musical theater. As Bob put it: “my entertainment was pianist. In high school, Bob picked up the saxophone always around music, and all forms of it.” He described and joined the school orchestra. It was a point of pride his move to Savannah, and getting involved with SMF, coming home with the instrument to practice, with as a musical brothers and sisters rejuvenation. Bob all in amazement. I think I’ve always, in my life, really looked out for met founding Executive It was the 1950s, an & Artistic musicians. I’m a bit awed by it. era in which a lot Director Rob –BOB FAIRCLOTH of Black American Gibson through musicians who faced golfing and discrimination while traveling in the United States would an introduction by bassist and composer Ben Tucker, tour across Canada, even playing in relatively small and became interested in helping Gibson build up towns. Bob became a follower of the New York promoter the organization. Faircloth and Tucker also became Norman Granz, whose Jazz at the Philharmonic series fast friends, with Ben visiting the Faircloths in New featured pre-eminent jazz musicians of the day in Hampshire in the summers. As he said: “He was a great concerts, tours and recordings. He and his friends, guy. He really was. He loved my wife. And the people all 17 or 18 years of age, would look for where these up there just loved him. I remember bringing Ben to the ensembles (mostly big bands) were playing. Faircloth club one time, and he sat down at the piano. He could has one lasting memory that was pivotal in his musical play well, in addition to the bass.” [he paused] “I think journey and love of big bands, when they heard that the I’ve always, in my life, really looked out for musicians. Duke Ellington Orchestra was performing at an air base I’m a bit awed by it.” about 70 miles away. They crammed into his friend’s Volkswagen Beetle and drove to the base. Arriving at In addition to his board leadership and unmatched the gate, the teenagers were told “no, no, you can’t get philanthropic support, Bob Faircloth’s involvement in in. This is for service people and veterans, and you’re SMF was particularly strong with the Swing Central Jazz neither.” high school big band workshop and competition, which aligned with his lifelong interest in big band tours and So they snuck in. When they got into the hangar where the Ellington experience. He and Jean, who was also a the concert was taking place, they walked in right where pianist, supported the Marcus Roberts and Rob Gibsonthe orchestra was, just a few feet away from Ellington led program, with family members presenting awards to himself. “And he spotted us. And I’ll never forget,” said young musicians over the years. Since 2022, the festival Faircloth. “He saw me, and I was one of the bigger kids has honored his support with the Faircloth Jazz Series. who’d come. He motioned to me to come over, and I sat on his bench with him.” Bob sat there for a bit, after which Ellington sternly advised “you boys behave yourselves.” He remembered the skillful playing of Ray Nance, who initially was on the trumpet in the back row but would put the horn down and walk to the front and pick up the violin when there was a song with a string part. The entire experience left a lasting impression.

“

”

In 1959, after university studies, Bob and his wife Jean Faircloth moved to Montreal. He described the city as “just rocking” at the time, with clubs open until 4 a.m.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

STEFON HARRIS & BLACKOUT

Wednesday, March 25 | 7:00 PM Kehoe Iron Works

Funding for the FAIRCLOTH JAZZ SERIES is provided by Bob Faircloth Sponsored by Pamela & Peter Voss Partial support by Georgia Power Piano by Steinway & Sons

Led by the visionary vibraphonist Stefon Harris, Stefon Harris & Blackout is a pioneering force in contemporary jazz, described by Harris as “jazz for the here and now.” Harris has been named DownBeat Critics Poll Vibraphonist of the Year multiple times and has been heralded as “one of the most important young artists in jazz” by the Los Angeles Times. Characterized by a stellar lineup of musicians, Stefon Harris & Blackout seamlessly blend funk, R&B, and global influences, transcending traditional jazz boundaries. Their

music showcases a dynamic interplay of intricate arrangements and soulful improvisation, solidifying their status as trailblazers in the modern jazz landscape. “Music is about authenticity, telling your story and sharing real-life stories that are from the ‘here and now,’ not just about the past,” says Harris of the group’s philosophy. “We all come from urban environments. And there’s a bit of an urban story told throughout all of the music. Also, the origins of jazz have always been from urban centers for the most

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part. I think that has to do with the fact that you have a confluence of cultures which synthesize in urban environments.” The ensemble’s live performance promises an electrifying fusion of tradition and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and further shaping the evolving narrative of jazz expression. This is their SMF debut.

SOMETHING OLD AND SOMETHING NEW: A NIGHT OF CLASSIC BROADWAY FEATURED ARTISTS: ERICA GABRIEL (AMERICAN SPIRITUAL ENSEMBLE, SAVANNAH PHILHARMONIC, CINCINNATI POPS) ALYSHA UMPHRESS (BERNSTEIN’S ON THE TOWN, DAMN YANKEES) MICHAEL MALIAKEL (ALADDIN, PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, GREAT GATSBY) JESSE NAGER (MARY POPPINS, MOTOWN) ANDREA ROSS (SOUND OF MUSIC)

06 APRIL 2026 | 7:00 - 8:30 PM

BROADWAY CONCERT

$10 STUDENTS | $50/$65 ADULTS

ASBURY MEMORIAL CHURCH

SCAN FOR TICKETS

1008 E. HENRY ST.

MORE INFORMATION AT: WWW.ATCSAVANNAH.ORG

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

LARKIN POE Wednesday, March 25 | 8:00 PM Lucas Theatre for the Arts Sponsored by Lesley Francis PR, Vicki McElreath, Plant Riverside District, Stage Front and Robin & Sandy Stuart Sponsored in part by Harold & Peggy Yellin

Larkin Poe is the dynamic sister duo of Rebecca and Megan Lovell who are known for their electrifying blend of Southern rock, blues, and Americana. They are making their SMF debut at this year’s festival, though they played a bluegrass show as The Lovell Sisters at SMF 2009. Larkin Poe’s latest album Bloom (Grammy nominated for best Americana Album) was produced and largely co-written by Megan, Rebecca, and Tyler Bryant, and it marks a significan evolution for Larkin Poe, reflecting a synergy that extends beyond mere musical partnership. Already hailed for the sincerity of their songcraft, the Lovell sisters now place an even greater spotlight on their gift for storytelling, delving deep into personal narratives with universal themes of self-acceptance and individuality against a backdrop of contemporary blues and rock influences. With their distinctive blend of masterful instrumentation and soulful harmonies, each track unfolds like a chapter, with lyrics that wind deeper and deeper towards the heart of Larkin Poe. Now in their 30s and following their Grammywinning success with Blood Harmony in 2024, the duo has ventured deeper into their musical journey, with a distinctive musical style that resonates with introspection, authenticity, and a profound connection to their roots in American music. Hailed by Forbes as “your next favorite performers,” and by American Songwriter as “the new face of gutsy blues rock,” Larkin Poe continues to electrify audiences wherever they perform.

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NOON30: ALICIA OLATUJA & CHRISTIAN SANDS Thursday, March 26 | 12:30 PM Kehoe Iron Works

Funding for the FAIRCLOTH JAZZ SERIES is provided by Bob Faircloth Sponsored by Pamela & Peter Voss Piano by Steinway & Sons

St. Louis–born vocalist, composer, and educator Alicia Olatuja is celebrated for her rich fusion of jazz, gospel, classical, R&B, and Afropop. Classically trained as a mezzosoprano, Olatuja earned degrees from the University of Missouri and Manhattan School of Music, debuting at Carnegie Hall and Opera Memphis. Praised by The New York Times as “a singer with a strong and luscious tone,” Olatuja has said, “I see myself as a prism. Just as light goes into a prism and then scatters in different colors, that’s pretty much what I’ve always focused on being able to do as an artist, regardless of what genre I’m singing.” She gained national attention singing at President Obama’s 2013 Inauguration and later collaborated with artists like Christian McBride, Gregory Porter, Billy Childs, and Dianne Reeves. A dedicated educator and certified life coach, Olatuja founded the Vocal Breakthrough Academy, and her live

performances showcase her dynamic artistry and her kaleidoscopic global musical vision. This is her SMF debut.

try to use my fingers to play. That is the story I was told. I don’t remember, because I was one.”

Christian Sands is a celebrated jazz pianist and two-time Grammy nominee known for his mastery of post-bop and swing traditions filtered through his deeply personal and joyfully inventive musical style. A protégé of the late Billy Taylor, Sands began playing piano at age three and composing by five. “I grew up in a really creative household,” Sands told Monterey County Now last year. “My mom loved storytelling. My dad would do photography, and he also played a little music. So creation and expression was definitely in the house, all the time… No one really wanted to teach a one or two-yearold how to play piano, so it took a while to find the teacher. But I had an upright piano at my house. And the story goes that I wouldn’t kind of bang on the piano, I would actually

After studying at the Manhattan School of Music, Sands gained early acclaim through Grammy Award performances and appearances at the Kennedy Center. He was also a regular participant in the Jazz in July music camp at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he first met Taylor. He released his debut album, Footprints, at 12 and has played with luminaries such as Lou Donaldson, Kirk Whalum, Phil Woods, James Moody, and Wycliffe Gordon, among many others. Always a festival favorite in Savannah, this is Sands’ third appearance at SMF.

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Mike Marshall is one of the world’s most accomplished and versatile string instrumentalists and a three-time Grammy nominee. A master of mandolin, guitar, mandocello, and violin, he blends American roots with classical, jazz, pop, and Brazilian music. At 19, he joined the David Grisman Quintet and has since produced over 40 recordings while collaborating with Béla Fleck, Edgar Meyer,

and Chris Thile. Deeply committed to education, Mike directed the Acoustic Music Seminar at SMF and teaches globally. With his wife, German mandolinist Caterina Lichtenberg, he co-founded the Mandolin World Retreats and continues to tour internationally, inspiring musicians worldwide.

MIKE MARSHALL & ALESSANDRO PENEZZI Thursday, March 26 | 6:00 PM Regina Coeli at The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist Sponsored by Marla & Morris Geffen, Wilson Morris and Ron & Susan Whitaker Partial support by United Community

Born in Piracicaba, Brazil, Alessandro Penezzi is one of the great virtuosos of Brazilian guitar. He graduated in Popular Music from Unicamp with a specialization in Creative Processes from Faculdade Souza Lima, and has been teaching courses, workshops, and

seminars at various music festivals in Brazil and abroad. Penezzi is a multi-instrumentalist and prolific composer and has toured extensively worldwide. He plays the seven-string guitar, tenor guitar, cavaquinho, mandolin and flute, and has received numerous honors and

nominations for his performances as an instrumentalist and composer. He has also been highlighted in the Visa MPB Instrumental, Tim de Música Brasileira, and Shell de Teatro and Prêmio da Música Brasileira awards. This is his SMF debut.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

THE LONE BELLOW Thursday, March 26 | 7:00 PM North Garden Assembly Room at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum Sponsored by Rhegan White-Clemm & Timothy Clemm Partial support by Truist

Founded by lead singer and guitarist Zach Williams, singer, mandolinist, and keyboard player Kanene Donehey Pipkin, and singer and guitarist Brian Elmquist, The Lone Bellow formed after Williams’ wife was involved in an accident that left her temporarily paralyzed from the neck down. Facing an uncertain future, Williams began writing songs dealing with tragedy, hope, and redemption. After her miraculous full recovery, the couple moved to Brooklyn in 2011, where Zach met Elmquist and Pipkin and started jamming, forming the basis for what was to become a career-changing trio that takes roots rock to new depths. As Williams told Paste Magazine in 2013, “I really enjoy the harmonies of us three singing together and I feel like it’s kind of its own sound. There’s definitely a feeling that happens inside me when I sing with Brian and Kanene and it’s a stand-alone feeling.” Since their 2014 SMF debut, The Lone Bellow has appeared on The Tonight Show, Austin City Limits, and The Late Show, topped Americana charts, and headlined storied venues from Carnegie Hall to the Ryman Auditorium. Having recently recorded a new album live in Muscle Shoals after a writing retreat in a converted Kentucky firehouse, The Lone Bellow continues to solidify their sound through lush harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and genreblurring arrangements steeped in folk, rock, and gospel. Founding members Williams, Elmquist, and Pipkin are joined by drummer Julian Dorio and multi-instrumentalist Tyler Geertsma for this SMF 2026 performance.

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RICHARD THOMPSON with Muireann Bradley Thursday, March 26 | 7:30 PM Lucas Theatre for the Arts Sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Anderson and Joseph & Susan Dockman Sponsored in part by Tim & Dorothea Coy and Marysue McCarthy

“To be moving is better than to be standing still,” Richard Thompson says, and Richard Thompson should know. The influential singer-songwriter and virtuosic guitarist has been on a singular musical journey for over half a century, from his days in the ‘60s as a pioneer of British folk rock with Fairport Convention, to his seminal ‘70s duo work with Linda Thompson, to the exploratory, deeply emotional music of the solo career that has been his primary concern ever since. Along

the way he has been touted as one of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time by Rolling Stone, covered by everyone from Robert Plant, R.E.M. and David Byrne to Sleater-Kinney, Bonnie Raitt, Del McCoury Band and Emmylou Harris, bestowed with the Ivor Novello Award for songwriting, and even appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire by the late Queen Elizabeth II. This is his second SMF appearance, following a 2017 festival performance.

Opening the show is 19-year-old Muireann Bradley from County Donegal in Ireland, a prolific and nuanced fingerstyle guitarist and singer who grew up steeped in American acoustic blues music. In 2024, she told Vintage Guitar Magazine, “I was hearing old blues before I was even born. My mother tells how my father used to hold a speaker to her belly when she was carrying me, so I could listen to Blind Lemon Jefferson or Charley Patton. When we were colicky as babies, he would walk around the kitchen rocking and jiggling us to the sounds of Blind Blake or Memphis Minnie until we settled. My father was also a very good guitar player who could copy old blues perfectly – our house always had more guitars than people in it.” Bradley just released her first heralded album, I Kept These Old Blues. This is her SMF debut.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

TANK AND THE BANGAS

ENCOUNTERS SERIES

Sponsored by Vicki McElreath

Piano by Steinway & Sons

REVERIE ROAD Tuesday, March 31 | 7:00 PM Kehoe Iron Works Partial support by Richard K. Lane Piano by Steinway & Sons

Reverie Road is a genre-defying Celtic powerhouse ensemble that unites founding Solas members Winifred Horan (fiddle) and John Williams (accordion) with former Gaelic Storm fiddler Katie Grennan, and Steinway Artist, jazz, and Raga pianist Utsav Lal. Together, these four exceptional musicians are celebrated as some of today’s most accomplished traditional and virtuosic folk music artists. “Reverie Road, I guess you could say, was born out of the Covid pandemic,” Horan told The Pitch in 2024. He and Grennan were very active during the pandemic teaching and performing online when they started a fiddle workshop the first winter of the lockdown. “We called it ‘Fiddle Frenzy,’ and it was really successful… Once Covid started to let up and we were coming out of the lockdown, I was on a sabbatical from the band Solas, and Katie was leaving the band that she was in, Gaelic Storm, and we just said, ‘Why don’t we start something?’ Coming out of Covid, it was the perfect time to start something new and fresh.” Reverie Road takes the rich tapestry of Irish music and weaves it into a cinematic experience, full of expressivity and sophistication. Their performances push the boundaries of tradition, offering stunningly innovative interpretations that

retain the heart of the genre while embracing a modern twist. Whether you’re a lover of traditional music or curious about its modern evolution, Reverie Road delivers an exhilarating, boundary-pushing performance that will leave your heart soaring and your toes tapping.

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Philip Dukes & Friends II:

ESCHER STRING QUARTET Tuesday, March 31 | 6:00 PM Trinity United Methodist Church Funding for Associate Artistic Director Philip Dukes is provided by Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Anderson, Tom & Ruth McMullin and Ron & Susan Whitaker Sponsored in part by Dayle & Aaron Levy, the Larry Pike Family Charitable Fund and Marti & Austin Sullivan

Giuseppe Verdi Quartet String Quartet in E minor Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart String Quartet No. 16 in E-Flat Major, K. 428 String Quintet No. 5 in D Major, K. 593

In this concert, we welcome back to SMF the renowned Escher String Quartet who have delighted audiences on many recent occasions since their October 2021 debut. In the first half they perform Verdi’s alluring String Quartet (never performed at SMF previously), and in the second half, together with Mr. & Mrs. Thomas V. and Susan G. Reilly Associate Artistic Director Philip Dukes, they perform the great D Major Viola Quintet by Mozart – a real gem of a work and considered to be his finest Viola Quintet.

Escher String Quartet Adam Barnett-Hart, violin Julian Rhee, violin Pierre Lapointe, viola Brook Speltz, cello Philip Dukes, viola

ROOTS AND RITUALS: AGRICULTURE AND SPIRITUALITY IN THE WEST AFRICAN INTERIOR www.savannahafricanartmuseum.org

Exhibition Opening February 2026 - January 2027 mUSEUM Hours Wed - Sat 11:00 - 5:00

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SEBASTIAN KNAUER: BACH & SONS

Sebastian Knauer, piano Benny Kim, violin Grace Park, violin Robin Ashwell, viola Brook Speltz, cello Marc Chesanow, bass

Wednesday, April 1 | 11:00 AM Trinity United Methodist Church Sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Anderson and Ron & Susan Whitaker

Sponsored in part by Becky & Bill Keightley, Dayle & Aaron Levy and Nina & Bill Weil Partial support by First City Capital Management Piano by Steinway & Sons

Johann Sebastian Bach Piano Concerto in D Major, BWV 1054 Johann Christian Bach Piano Concerto in E-Flat Major, Opus 7, No. 5 Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach Piano Concerto in G Major, Wq. 475 Johann Sebastian Bach Piano Concerto in G minor, BWV 1058 Pianist Sebastian Knauer and a string quintet take a musical journey from the Baroque to the Classical period, in which the development of the piano concerto genre within the Bach family is shown in a fascinating way. Knauer has enjoyed playing Bach on the piano since he was very young, but his enthusiasm was always tempered with respect for the complex works of the composer. “I noticed at once: It is a huge challenge – not only in terms of keyboard technique, but mentally too,” he says in an introduction to the recording of Bach & Sons 2. “In my

student days and during the first few years of my career as a pianist, I was constantly working on his music, but rarely played it in public concerts. Particularly when it came to the piano concertos, I never really felt myself to be ready, because I was searching all the time for my own picture of the music.” Father Johann Sebastian was the first composer ever to give the piano/ harpsichord a solo role alongside the orchestra. His sons Carl Philipp Emanuel, Wilhelm Friedemann,

and Johann Christian masterfully continued this tradition, and adapted their concertos both to contemporary taste and to innovations in musical instrument making. In this respect, the Bach family made a significant contribution to the emancipation of the piano as a solo instrument in the mid18th century on the way to Mozart. The Bach sons’ piano concertos in this program are rarities, very rarely heard in concert.

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30+

Nonstop Destinations

JULIAN LAGE QUARTET Feat. John Medeski, Jorge Roeder, Kenny Wollesen

Wednesday, April 1 | 5:00 PM & 7:30 PM Kehoe Iron Works Funding for the FAIRCLOTH JAZZ SERIES is provided by Bob Faircloth Sponsored by Wilson Morris, Pamela & Peter Voss and Ron & Susan Whitaker Sponsored in part by Dave Lake & Linda Wright

Piano by Steinway & Sons

Hailed by The New Yorker as one of the most prodigious guitarists of his generation and the “highest category of improvising musicians,” Julian Lage has spent more than a decade searching through the myriad strains of American musical history via impeccable technique, free association and a spirit of infinite possibility. The California-born New York-based musician boasts a prolific resume on his own accord in addition to collaborating with Gary Burton and 46

John Zorn, as well as duo projects with Nels Cline, Chris Eldridge and Fred Hersch, among others. “I came in with a desire to present this as an egalitarian thing, rather than ‘I’m the leader — let’s build something around me,’” Lage says about his newest record, Scenes from Above. “This is music that’s connected to our own growth and development individually and within our relationships with one another,

with no sense that anybody’s expecting anything.” Lage has recorded 15 albums as a leader and lent his singular virtuosity to work with Charles Lloyd, Eric Harland, John Zorn, Terri Lyne Carrington, Fred Hersch, and Nels Cline. For this year’s SMF performance, Lage is joined by longtime bassist Jorge Roeder, drummer Kenny Wollesen, and keyboard master John Medeski, best known as one-third of the jazzfunk trio Medeski Martin & Wood.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

John Craigie is an American singer, songwriter, and storyteller whose live shows blur the line between concert and conversation. Blending sharp wit with heartfelt folk songs, he has built a reputation as a modern troubadour, drawing audiences in with humor, honesty, and a deep sense of connection. “I respond really well to humor,” Craigie told OffBeat Magazine. “The world is such a strange and tragic place that it’s hard not to laugh sometimes. People relate to that. If you’re going to give your attention to an artist, you want them to be honest with you and with themselves.” For over a decade, Craigie has made music that brings people in, not with spectacle but with sincerity. His latest album, I Swam Here, recorded between New Orleans and Astoria and released on Zabriskie Point Records, reflects that spirit. The

record follows 2024’s Pagan Church, which spent six weeks at No. 1 on the Americana Albums chart, and finds Craigie expanding his sound while staying rooted in storytelling and songcraft. A tireless live performer, Craigie has toured throughout the U.S., Europe, and Australia, appeared at festivals including Newport Folk, Pickathon, Edmonton Folk Festival, and High Sierra, and shared stages with artists such as Langhorne Slim, Sierra Hull, Gregory Alan Isakov, and Jack Johnson. Known for his warmth, wit, and authenticity, Craigie continues to create music that feels personal, generous, and quietly unforgettable. This is his SMF debut.

SIERRA HULL & JOHN CRAIGIE Wednesday, April 1 | 7:00 PM Lucas Theatre for the Arts

Sponsored in part by Connie & Glen Darbyshire and Bill & Bev Jaques

Sierra Hull is a seven-time IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year, sixtime Grammy nominee, and one of the most dynamic voices in bluegrass and Americana. She has shared stages with legends like Alison Krauss, Eric Clapton, Sturgill Simpson, Slash, and Robert Randolph, blending technical mastery with heartfelt storytelling. Hull explained her upbringing to The Bluegrass Situation last year by saying, “Music was part of everyday life. My whole family is very much rooted in the backwoods of Appalachia,

the boonies of Tennessee, as far back as I know. Not a lot of money, no college degrees, but such smart, strong characters and people with a wealth of knowledge and grit and toughness and all that. I think music was a way that they were able to cope and have it be part of their way to pass the time. More a way of life than trying to dream of being a performer.” In 2025, Hull became the first female artist honored with a Gibson signature mandolin and was also awarded the Tennessee Governor’s Distinguished Arts Award. This is her third SMF appearance as a bandleader, the first being in 2014.

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Philip Dukes & Friends III:

BRAHMS & FRANCK Thursday, April 2 | 5:00 PM Neises Auditorium at Telfair’s Jepson Center Funding for Associate Artistic Director Philip Dukes is provided by Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Sponsored by Tom & Ruth McMullin and Ron & Susan Whitaker Sponsored in part by Dave & Sylvaine Neises Piano by Steinway & Sons

Johannes Brahms Piano Quartet No. 3 in C minor, Opus 60

Benny Kim, violin Jack Liebeck, violin Grace Park, violin Robin Ashwell, viola Philip Dukes, viola

César Franck Piano Quintet in F minor

SMF teams up with the American Traditions Vocal Collection (ATC), Savannah’s premier singing competition, for a co-production featuring four of Broadway’s brightest stars. Join these former ATC medal winners, all of whom are notable performers on Broadway and of Broadway songs, for an evening of popular musical theatre selections. Anchored by religious themes in honor of Passover and Holy Week, this event is the kickoff to ATC’s Broadway Week, which continues through the week of April 6th. Hear tunes from Godspell, The Prince of Egypt, Fiddler on the Roof and more!

In the first of two classic chamber music recitals to close the 2026 Philip Dukes & Friends series, we hear two works from the great Romantic masters Johannes Brahms and the Belgian born composer César Franck. The first is Brahms’ stunning third Piano Quartet (noted for the particularly exquisite slow movement), contrasted by the second work, which is Franck’s dramatic Piano Quintet, and certainly a tour de force for the pianist!

Eric Kim, cello Brook Speltz, cello Sebastian Knauer, piano Simon Mulligan, piano

Gold Medalist Michael Maliakel (Aladdin, The Great Gatsby, Monsoon Wedding, The Phantom of the Opera), 2025 ATC Silver Medalist Jesse Nager (Mary Poppins, Mamma Mia, Good Vibrations, Motown), and 2018 ATC Gold Medalist Erica Gabriel (Symphonic soloist with Cincinnati Pops, Hilton Head Symphony, Savannah Philharmonic).

DIVINE HARMONY: BROADWAY TUNES FROM RELIGIOUS TO SECULAR A Co-Production with American Traditions Vocal Collection

Featuring 2023 ATC Gold Medalist Alysha Umphress (On the Town, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Damn Yankees), 2016 ATC

Thursday, April 2 | 7:00 PM Kehoe Iron Works Sponsored by Georgia Public Broadcasting Sponsored in part by Becky & Bill Keightley and Regina & Rick Roney Piano by Steinway & Sons

ENCOUNTERS SERIES ARTIST DISCUSSIONS: DIVINE HARMONY Thursday, April 2 | 8:30 PM Kehoe Iron Works

Join American Traditions Vocal Collection Executive and Artistic Director Mikki Sodergren and a panel of singers as they discuss the inspiration behind some of Broadway’s most treasured songs.

Hear directly from SMF artists at this special concert talkback events.

For ticket holders only.

Funding for community impact programming is provided by the Wall Lynch Family.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

DARRELL SCOTT STRING BAND Feat. Rob Ickes

Thursday, April 2 | 7:30 PM North Garden Assembly Room at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

At the ripe age of 66, legendary singer-songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Darrell Scott is having a career rebirth of sorts, according to Smoky Mountain News. “I think I spent a couple of years wondering if I should just turn all this down and just stay out at my farm,” Scott told the publication in November 2025. “But, in fact, I’m more energized than I’ve been in decades about music, projects, playing music, and new ideas. So, when I was very much considering toning it all down, I’m doing the opposite. I’m working on all kinds of records right now. For whatever reason, I’m more energized than ever.” The Darrell Scott String Band is a bluegrass/ folk band featuring Rob Ickes on dobro, piano, and guitar, Bryn Davies on upright bass, Matt Flinner on mandolin and banjo, and Shad Cobb on fiddle. The band’s music explores Scott’s Kentucky roots and features string-based instrumentation, with a sound that’s rooted in bluegrass and folk. Scott has collaborated with an assortment of other accomplished musicians like Steve Earle, Sam Bush, Emmylou Harris, John Cowan, Kate Rusby, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Mary Gauthier, Dan Tyminski, and so many others. Rob Ickes (see page 52)

Photo by Filippo Andolfatto

Your City. Your Magazine. 1 YEAR (10 issues) for ONLY $25.99 2 YEARS (20 issues) for ONLY $39.99

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Generation-defining Blues Musicians Article by Amy Paige Condon

Even after a hair over 50 years of playing the blues across the globe and alongside guitar icons such as Eric Clapton, Keith Richards and Chuck Berry, Robert Cray still cannot fathom that up-and-coming blues and R&B musicians look at him the way he looked at his heroes John Lee Hooker, Albert Collins and Albert King.

years later, Cray and his bandmates, including Richard Cousins who has been alongside him since day one, were backing Collins whenever he performed on the West Coast. They had moved to Eugene, Oregon—a college town—by then and found the geography (between Portland and San Francisco) helped raise their profile. It was a stop on the blues circuit and they developed their chops playing with Guy, Junior Wells and others.

“It’s a strange feeling. I don’t really see myself as that person,” Cray says over the phone from the road. “I think the younger generation under me, I think they’re looking at the –ROBERT CRAY BAND The Robert same people that I Cray Band has looked at, but maybe not slowed down since then, touring constantly and I’d fit in there somewhere, but I don’t understand how.” releasing 19 studio albums over the past five decades. But Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, considered as the “Nowadays, we have a big song list, and on a nightly defining voice of blues for newer generations, has basis, we switch it out so that we’re not playing the same name-checked Cray along with Buddy Guy and Keb’ Mo thing every night. It’s how you feel,” he explains, “to as among the blues musicians who have inspired him. keep yourself from becoming stagnant and complacent.” The admiration is mutual. Being on stage reminds him to stay in the moment. “Everything that you sing, every note that you play Cray told The Musical Box blogger Walter Tunis in 2021 means something. There’s a time for silence. There’s a that Ingram, a fellow multiple Grammy Award-winning time to explode.” blues artist, gives him hope that the blues will carry on, and he likes the way those following in his footsteps bring their own style.

“Everything that you sing, every note that you play means something. There’s a time for silence. There’s a time to explode”

“I did a lot of emulation and added my own thing to it,” he recalls. “[Music] has to move. It has to transition. It has to change. You can talk about the different styles of blues that there’s been over the years and how it went from acoustic to electric in Chicago, then there were all these guitar slingers with T-Bone Walker, and the Texas players, Freddie King and Albert Collins… “Then a group like ours comes out, and we start adding more R&B—we weren’t the first, Albert King was doing it when we was recording at Stax Records. Then came more rock. I have to give credit to Buddy Guy for being the inspiration to people like Jimi Hendrix, because Buddy was doing the rock version of stuff like that before anybody else in blues.” Even when he was a high schooler back in Tacoma, Wash., Cray had a dream to be a bluesman. He first saw Albert Collins when the “Master of the Telecaster” played his high school graduation party in 1971. Five 50

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

CHRISTONE “KINGFISH” INGRAM Thursday, April 2 | 8:00 PM Lucas Theatre for the Arts Sponsored by Stage Front, Robin & Sandy Stuart and Visit Savannah Sponsored in part by Joyce Roché & Johnie Seals

Hailed by Rolling Stone as “a rare 21st century guitar hero and the undisputed future of the blues,” Christone “Kingfish” Ingram stands at the crossroads of history and innovation, channeling the spirit of the Delta while boldly reimagining what comes next. Now, with his new album, Hard Road, Kingfish looks back at his extraordinary Grammy Award-winning journey thus far by lighting out for previously unexplored musical territory, infusing his signature sound with a genreblurring approach fraught with creative urgency and heretofore untapped emotional range.

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Designing with respect for history, and an eye on the future

NOON30: DARRELL SCOTT & ROB ICKES Friday, April 3 | 12:30 PM North Garden Assembly Room at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum Partial support by Bernard Williams & Company, LLC

Darrell Scott (see page 49) Rob Ickes is a native of the San Francisco Bay Area and a world-renowned dobro player, known for his innovative style and mastery of the instrument. Inspired at 13 by dobro legend Mike Auldridge, he began a lifelong musical journey that led him to Nashville, where he co-founded the bluegrass band Blue Highway in 1994. Ickes has earned a record-setting 15 International Bluegrass Music Association Dobro Player of the Year awards and contributed to multiple Grammy-winning albums. “When it’s done well, [bluegrass] is pretty hard to beat,” Ickes told Smoky Mountain News in a 2017 interview. “I enjoy that it’s acoustic music. Any sounds or feelings you get out of your instrument are created solely by you, some wood, and some wires. There are no electronic amps or anything involved, so I think a good acoustic musician is part musician and part magician. It’s like, ‘How are they getting all of those sounds and emotions out of wood and wires?’ That’s the challenge, and the fun of playing bluegrass.”

“Music is liquid architecture; Architecture is frozen music” - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe - 1829

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Le Vent du Nord is an awardwinning, internationally acclaimed band at the forefront of Québec’s vibrant Francophone folk scene. They blend traditional roots songs with original compositions, and their powerful, rhythm-driven sound draws from an array of Celtic influences and diverse global traditions. Since they first formed in 2002, they’ve performed over 2,200 concerts across four continents, released 12 albums, and earned numerous honors, including two Junos, a Félix, a Grand Prix du Disque Charles Cros, and a Canadian Folk Music Award. “The first album we recorded together was called Le Vent du Nord, which comes from a phrase my great-uncle Marcel used to say: ‘Le vent du nord est toujours fret, peu importe d’où il vient’ (The north wind is always cold wherever it comes from),” founding member Nicolas Boulerice explained to International Arts in 2025. “The title was very long, so people naturally started calling the project Le Vent du Nord. It stuck because it explained everything in just a few words. We are Nordic, we are French, and the elements – the wind, nature – are very important to us.” Le Vent du Nord is renowned for their dynamic live performances and inventive collaborations with artists like The Chieftains, Breabach, and Constantinople, the five musicians continually redefine folk music, fusing

LE VENT DU NORD / BREABACH Friday, April 3 | 5:00 PM & 8:00 PM

Kehoe Iron Works

Sponsored by Joseph & Susan Dockman and Rhegan WhiteClemm & Timothy Clemm Sponsored in part by Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

tradition with contemporary flair to create a sound that is both timeless and boldly modern. This is their second SMF appearance, following a well-received 2017 debut. Breabach is one of Scotland’s most dynamic and inventive contemporary folk bands that blend deep Highland and Island traditions with Glasgow’s vibrant creative energy. Over the course of 17 years, they’ve released seven acclaimed albums, toured globally, and earned numerous accolades, including five Scots Trad Music Awards and BBC Folk Award nominations. The band’s name is a Gaelic word and Scottish bagpiping term, which means “to kick” or to play energetically, like you’re kicking the music forward. “A big part of our development is collaborating with other musicians and meeting other musicians from different genres and cultures,” bassist James Lindsay told New Jersey Arts in 2024. Renowned for their collaborations with international artists such as Le Vent

du Nord, and Moana and the Tribe, Breabach continue to evolve through innovative projects like Dùsgadh, their award-winning film collaboration. Featuring Megan Henderson, James Lindsay, Calum MacCrimmon, Conal McDonagh, and Ewan Robertson, the band balances respect for their roots with bold, forward-thinking artistry that redefines modern Scottish folk music. This is Breabach’s SMF debut.

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NOON30: LE VENT DU NORD Saturday, April 4 | 12:30 PM Kehoe Iron Works

MAXIM LANDO Piano

Friday, April 3 | 6:00 PM Neises Auditorium at Telfair’s Jepson Center Sponsored by Jackie & Stephen Rabinowitz and Ron & Susan Whitaker Piano by Steinway & Sons

American pianist Maxim Lando has been lauded by The New York Times for his “brilliance and infectious exuberance.” He first made international headlines performing together with Lang Lang, Chick Corea, and The Philadelphia Orchestra led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin at Carnegie Hall’s 2017 Opening Night Gala. Since then, he has performed with major orchestras around the world, including the Cleveland Orchestra, Pittsburgh Symphony, Toronto Symphony, Israel Philharmonic, Zurich Chamber Orchestra, and over 60 others across North America and Europe.

“My goal is always to approach music from my own perspective,” Lando told Opera Slovakia in 2024. “Of course, historical contexts and traditions are important, and if I know something specific about the context in which the music was or is composed… then of course this will influence my performance. However, I usually approach music the way I hear it and naturally react to it. That seems to me to be the most honest and interesting way for a performer to become part of the big musical equation.” Lando frequently partners with Daniel Hope and has collaborated with Lynn Harrell,

Maria Zouves & Sherrill Milnes, Co-Founders & Presidents Andrew Bisantz, Artistic Director Torlef Borsting, Executive Director 54

Bach/Brahms Chaconne in D-minor for Left Hand Liebermann Three Dances from Frankenstein Holst/Lando The Planets Julian Rachlin, and the Danish String Quartet, among others. Lando is a Laureate of the Artemisia Foundation, an alumnus of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, and studies with long-time mentor HungKuan Chen at The Juilliard School. This is Lando’s SMF debut.

For tickets, visit savannahvoicefestival.org

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Q 105.3

Celebrating 35 Years of playing the songs Savannah loves. Savannah’s ONLY Locally Owned Radio Station wrhq.com

SAHA GNAWA

Friday, April 3 | 7:00 PM North Garden Assembly Room at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum Sponsored in part by Mr. & Mrs. John Tucker

Critically-acclaimed ensemble Saha Gnawa is co-led by Maâlem Hassan, Ben Jaafer, and Daniel Freedman and unites the founders of Innov Gnawa with leading figures from New York City’s jazz and contemporary music scenes to reimagine modern Gnawa music. Often referred to as

“Sufi Blues,” Gnawa is rooted in centuries of Moroccan history. It includes the infectious rhythms and polytheistic spiritual beliefs that originated from West Africa, mixed with the Islamic and the indigenous cultures of Morocco, creating a hybrid spiritual and musical combination. The lyrics of Gnawa songs are prayers invoking saints and spirits for freedom and liberation.

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OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW Friday, April 3 | 8:00 PM Lucas Theatre for the Arts

Sponsored by HunterMaclean, Lesley Francis PR, The Kennickell Group, Robin & Sandy Stuart and Visit Savannah

Sponsored in part by Queensborough National Bank and Trust

Since getting their start busking on street corners in the late 90s, the two-time Grammy Awardwinning band Old Crow Medicine Show has brought their raucous live show to audiences around the world, touring with the likes of Willie Nelson and John Prine. With founding member Will Watson back in the band, the group is revisiting its early sound and spirit on this tour. Celebrating their 25th anniversary, this SMF return finds the Nashville-based six-piece

playing their highly acclaimed early albums O.C.M.S. and Big Iron World back to back. “In a lot of people’s minds folk music seems to be relegated to a place of supposed purity, but we’ve always wanted our folk music to be the soundtrack to real living rather than something stuck behind the glass in a museum,” says frontman Ketch Secor. “We’d much prefer to smash that glass and take those

instruments back to the street corners, maybe break some strings and bleed on them a bit. To us music works best when you sing it loud and hard and lusty until your throat gets sore— it’s meant to hurt when it comes out right.” This is their second SMF appearance, following a 2013 debut.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

LEE FIELDS / MONOPHONICS Friday, April 3 | 8:30 PM Victory North

Partial support by Carole & Gene Brogdon

Lee Fields, sometimes nicknamed “Little JB” for his physical and vocal resemblance to James Brown, has recorded with acts like Kool and the Gang, Darrell Banks, and Little Royal, and worked with a wide range of musicians such as B. B. King, Clarence Carter, Dr. John, Denise LaSalle, and Bobby Womack. Originally from Wilson, North Carolina, Lee has been recording since 1969, with a repertoire that spans the gamut of soul, funk, and R&B. A documentary about his career, Lee Fields: Faithful Man, was released in 2024, and as Fields explained to WUNC in 2025, “I started out singing very young. I was about 14 when I got into the clubs in Wilson. It wasn’t my ambition to become a singer… I wanted to become a businessman. But then this movie T.A.M.I. Show came out. It had James Brown in it, and everybody was telling me how much I resembled him. I went to see the movie, and I liked what he did, and I said to myself, ‘I believe I can do that.’” Fields’ more recent work with The Expressions includes the albums Faithful Man and Special Night, and his music has permeated almost all aspects of popular culture, including movie soundtracks, popular TV shows, video games, and samples by artists from J. Cole to Slum Village.

Monophonics hail from the Bay Area and are one of America’s premier soul bands, blending classic soul, psychedelic rock, heavy funk, and timeless songwriting. Anchored by Kelly Finnigan’s powerful vocals and vintage organ, their cinematic sound honors the Bay Area’s diverse musical heritage, from Sly Stone to Haight-Ashbury’s psychedelic era. “We like texture, warmth, character... it sounds like music made in 2022 but by people who really understand how records were made in 1960 or 1970,” Finnigan told KNKX Public Radio in 2022. “We’re not reinventing the wheel, we’re just reminding you how much of an amazing invention that wheel is.” The band is known for its raw, analog recordings and electrifying live performances that capture an authentic soul energy through live rhythm sessions and meticulous production. With releases like In Your Brain and Sound of Sinning, Monophonics continue to evolve, channeling passion, honesty, and groove into every note.

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

SMF ENCORE AFTER PARTY JAY RUDD BAND Friday, April 3 | 10:15 PM Broughton Street Bowl & Brew, 129 E. Broughton St. Jay Rudd Band brings together deep southern roots, seasoned musicianship, and a fresh wave of original songwriting. After 15 years performing around the southeast in bluegrass and country bands, Jay Rudd has stepped into the spotlight with a new project that blends heartfelt originals with the timeless sounds of classic country and bluegrass. Fronted by Jay Rudd on guitar and vocals, the band features Katie Rudd on bass, Taylor Swan on pedal steel and banjo, Jeremy Hammons on drums/vocals, and Brenden Coomaraswamy on electric guitar. For tickets, scan here. Complimentary admission for ENCORE members and sponsors. ENCORE is presented by B. Matthew’s Eatery

SMF ENCORE CLOSING WEEKEND PRE-PARTY ROCKIN’ SCOTT & THE HOT SHOTS Saturday, April 4 | 4:45 PM Outside Kehoe Iron Works, 660 E. Broughton St. For over half of a century, Scott Alexander has been playing and singing blues and roots rock ‘n’ roll, seasoned with New Orleans R&B. He has appeared on stage with such artists as Taj Mahal, Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown, Roomful of Blues, and Chuck Leavell, and played on the early recordings of Tinsley Ellis and the Heartfixers. In the 1980’s, Scott founded the Night Flight All Stars, which morphed into the Savannah All Stars. Today, he has reunited with veterans from that original group, bassist Mike Perry and drummer Jesse Jordan, to form his trio, Rockin’ Scott & the Hot Shots. Together, they cook up a tasty musical gumbo! For this SMF appearance, they’ll be joined by special guest Gordon Perry on guitar. For tickets, scan here. Complimentary admission for ENCORE members and sponsors. ENCORE is presented by B. Matthew’s Eatery

*Free entry for ticket holders to any April 4 SMF concert, VIP Weekender Wristband Holders, SMF Encore members, and all SMF donors.

Dear Ryan, Sinisa, and the rest of the SMF team, Thank you for including Victory North as part of the Savannah Music Festival over the past five years. It has been a privilege to collaborate to create memorable performances featuring George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners, Rebirth Brass Band, Steep Canyon Rangers, North Mississippi All Stars, Leftover Salmon, and The Wood Brothers. We are incredibly excited about the upcoming 2026 SMF lineup at Victory North, including Tank & the Bangas (3/26), The Infamous Stringdusters (3/27), Daniel Donato (3/30), and Lee Fields and the Monophonics (4/3). We look forward to continuing this partnership and creating more exceptional live music experiences together in the years ahead. Much Love, Victory North

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Philip Dukes & Friends IV:

In the series finale, we hear music from more Romantic Era geniuses, namely Schumann and Dvořák.

Saturday, April 4 | 6:00 PM Neises Auditorium at Telfair’s Jepson Center

The concert begins with Schumann’s popular Piano Quartet in E-Flat (another ravishing slow movement to savor), before closing with Antonin Dvorak’s barnstorming and celebrated Piano Quintet in A Major. Altogether a rousing and joyous conclusion.

SCHUMANN & DVOŘÁK Funding for Associate Artistic Director Philip Dukes is provided by Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Sponsored by Ron & Susan Whitaker Sponsored in part by Margie & B.H. Levy, Jr. and the Larry Pike Family Charitable Fund Partial support by Phillipa S. & James L. Montag Piano by Steinway & Sons

Benny Kim, violin Jack Liebeck, violin Grace Park, violin Robin Ashwell, viola Philip Dukes, viola

Robert Schumann Piano Quartet in E-Flat Major, Opus 47 Antonín Dvořák Piano Quartet No. 2 in A Major, Opus 81

Eric Kim, cello Brook Speltz, cello Sebastian Knauer, piano Simon Mulligan, piano

Inspiring creativity and connection through the arts: that’s how good fuels great™ The Atlanta Gas Light Foundation proudly supports partners like the Savannah Music Festival that bring music, theater and visual arts to life in our communities. We believe that’s good worth fueling.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Closin Weeke g nd Party!

DWAYNE DOPSIE & THE ZYDECO HELLRAISERS / SALLY BABY’S SILVER DOLLARS Saturday, April 4 | 6:00 PM & 9:30 PM Kehoe Iron Works

Sally Baby’s Silver Dollars is a local gem of the New Orleans music scene and is quickly gaining devoted fans from far and wide. Seamlessly blending the sounds of the early Creole jazz bands with New Orleans R&B, Second Line music, calypso, and their own ethereal, mystical, and magical original music, their live shows always leave audiences wanting more. The creative force behind Sally Baby’s Silver Dollars, Sal Geloso, explained to NPR in 2024 about the influence of NOLA on their quintessential song, “I Got No More Tears Left To Cry.” “Having the horns and piano, it lays, like, such a - almost like a bed of roses for you to just kind of wail and sing over,” said Geloso. “This song is definitely inspired by a lot of 50s and 60s New Orleans rhythm and blues. That melody, that horn line - it was etched into my head, so I was like, I’ve got to write something that is kind of just reminiscent of these old tunes. And, you know, they all deal with heartbreak and tears on my pillow and pining over a lover.”

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Dwayne “Dopsie” Rubin is a Louisiana native from one of the most influential zydeco families and has carved his own energetic and soulful path in modern zydeco music. He taught himself accordion by studying videos of his father and Clifton Chenier, and developed a fiery style that blends tradition with innovation. He’s been called the Jimi Hendrix of accordion and made his debut on The Dolly Parton Show when he was nine years old. “Basically, I’m playing accordion like a guitar. I’m not like playing how most people would really

play it,” he told American Blues Scene in 2021. At 19, he formed Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers, a powerhouse band whose members together bring over a century of experience. As a singer, songwriter, and accordionist, Dwayne writes both lyrics and music, crafting songs rich with blues and old-time zydeco flair, citing Muddy Waters, BB King, Albert Collins, Stevie Ray Vaughan, T-Bone Walker, and Lightnin’ Hopkins as his biggest influences. Their passionate live performances radiate energy and authenticity and are sure not to be missed.

ENCOUNTERS SERIES DANCE LESSONS AT SMF: ZYDECO LESSONS Saturday, April 4 | 5:30 PM & 9:00 PM Kehoe Iron Works Need some encouragement to get on the dance floor? Learn from the experts before our 2026 dance parties! For ticket holders only.

Funding for community impact programming is provided by the Wall Lynch Family.

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Men of Unbridled Musical Joy Article by Amy Paige Condon

On Feb. 28, 2026, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tenn., celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Coen Brothers’ O, Brother, Where Art Thou?—a film credited with reviving American roots music with a T Bone Burnett-produced soundtrack that reached way back into the annals of bluegrass and gospel. Sharing the Opry stage that night were two acts—multiinstrumentalist Dan Tyminski and Old Crow Medicine Show—whose lives were changed forever by the movie and album, which sold more than 8 million copies. “O, Brother” made Tyminski, then a sideman in the venerated bluegrass and country band Alison Krauss and Union Station, a household name as the “Man of Constant Sorrow” behind George Clooney’s singing voice. “My life is nowhere near the same without that having happened to me. That was the game changer,” Tyminski recalls.

“Every concert is an opening of the proverbial case again, which puts you in that place of who will discover us tonight? What would they see when they encounter us?”Secor talks about a street preacher he saw as a kid. “That guy was scary but I couldn’t look away. I’ve tried to be the same kind of entertainer—somebody who has an intensity that makes you not want to look away and makes you think about yourself. What part of you has that fire? “There’s a kindling that happens with American music traditions,” Secor adds. “You’re supposed to cup the flame and hand it to somebody else so that they can ignite their own.” Tyminski has rekindled that fire that first fed his desire to play music in recent years by stepping away from the sidelines to be the front man in his own band. After more than 25 years with Union Station, Tyminski pursued solo projects when the band went on a touring hiatus in 2015.

For Ketch Secor, “I didn’t play music for then a 23-year-old “There’s a kindling that happens with American music a while, and I started banjo player and fiddler with a nascent traditions. You’re supposed to cup the flame and hand it really jonesing for it. I questioned how long band busking on to somebody else so that they can ignite their own.” it would be if we were street corners and -KETCH SECOR going to come back. I hitting the bluegrass really didn’t know.” festival circuit, the soundtrack’s success was a runway. After a few years, he put the Dan Tyminski Band together and started traveling, playing his own music “When we were first getting started, so many people for the first time. He says he realized he had been other would say, ‘look, it’s the Soggy Bottom Boys.’ It was versions of himself when he played with his brother, the a really beautiful time in which the consciousness of Lonesome River Band and with Alison Krauss and Union America was being reopened to this mesmerizing flow Station throughout his career. “But after I started writing of American traditional music.” my own music, performing my own songs, I felt like, for the first time in my life, I was my own version of Dan As an authentic string band with a contagious kinetic Tyminski.” energy on stage reminiscent of a tent revival, Old Crow Medicine Show soared afterward by tapping into that After a few band changes, he says, the music just kept yearning for “something old and genuine,” says Secor. getting better. “I kind of had this new vigor to go and play. It’s hard to explain when you’re my age and you’ve “When you play fiddles and banjos, there’s a kind of been playing for that many years to have a new kind of cyclic round that happens in our arts and humanities, by feeling.” which every couple of generations, young people want to know what the past was like. I’m of a generation like That feeling has forged deeper connections with that… even in the ’90s, I felt like we were losing track audiences that he could not have created as a side man. of the things that make us American, the things that are “Make no mistake, I loved what I did with Union Station. cultural epitomes of our people, of our great land.” It was the most amazing experience of a lifetime that you could ever want. But, if I’m honest with myself, I Now at the quarter century mark with a lot of road, life wasn’t connecting to the audience in the way that I now and music behind them, Old Crow Medicine Show is get to talk to the people. It’s just an entirely different making music with a nod to the familiar. The band’s job… I want my show to feel like [the audience] is getting new world tour harkens back to their earlier days, by to actually know who I am, that there is a relationship focusing on the songs and sounds of O.C.M.S and Big being formed.” Iron World, their first two studio albums. 62

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

ROBERT CRAY BAND Saturday, April 4 | 7:00 PM Trustees Theater Sponsored by Georgia Public Broadcasting

Sponsored in part by Steve & Carter Eagle and Klassikum

Since 1974, Robert Cray has been touring and recording his unique groove, born from a love of Soul, R&B, Gospel, Blues, and Rock n Roll. The five time Grammy winner has been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame and earned the Americana

Music Awards Lifetime Achievement for Performance. Robert has shared the stage with some of the all-time greats like Albert Collins, Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, and Eric Clapton. Robert Cray has released over twenty

acclaimed albums and sold millions worldwide. Yet, Robert Cray says, “The band continues with the same enthusiasm and joy in what we do, and no matter the accolades.”

DAN TYMINSKI BAND Saturday, April 4 | 7:30 PM North Garden Assembly Room at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

Sponsored by Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Partial support by Charlie Pohl & Dr. Janice Nevin

Dan Tyminski was six years old when his parents began taking him to fiddle contests, square dances, and bluegrass festivals across New England. For a young musician who would later become one of the biggest names in modern-day bluegrass, those early experiences were life-changing. His voice famously accompanies George Clooney’s performance of the Stanley Brothers’ classic song “I Am A Man of Constant Sorrow” in the film Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?, and his diverse solo projects and years of work with Alison Krauss and Union Station have yielded troves of award-winning music. In recent years, Tyminski’s live shows with the Dan Tyminski Band have become bluegrass fan favorites and are regularly on the must-see lists among music fans of any genre. Don’t miss this SMF debut! savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

SOMI BENSON-JAJA

Acclaimed Grammy-nominated indie band Lucius has been turning heads since the start of their career thanks to their irrepressibly catchy songs, explosive harmonies, and bold aesthetic. Formed by Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig, who met at the Berklee College of Music, the group got rolling with their 2013 debut album Wildewoman, and in 2025, the band released their fourth studio album, Lucius, which Rolling Stone called “the best album of their career.” Their song “Gold Rush” landed on NPR’s best songs of 2025 list, and The New Yorker praised it as reaching “the pinnacle of a vibrant, harmonic enterprise.” Laessig explained to Salt Lake Magazine last year the process of recording the newest album by saying, ”While we have been a band together, we’ve all been part of other projects, and gained a lot of knowledge within our own instruments, and it’s fun to then bring all we do and learn back to the band. Evolving separately and together has been cool. When you’re with people 64

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as long as we’ve been a band, you get to know each other so intimately.” In addition to their amazing output with Lucius, Jess and Holly are members of the recent Joni Mitchell’s Joni Jam band and have worked on recordings with John Legend, Brandi Carlile, Ozzy Osborne, Ringo Starr, Harry Styles, and Sheryl Crow, to name a few. Their SMF debut will feature an acoustic evening of songs and stories from throughout their career.

LUCIUS Saturday, April 4 | 8:30 PM Lucas Theatre for the Arts Sponsored by Joseph & Susan Dockman, HunterMaclean and David & Caroline Johnson Sponsored in part by Connie & Glen Darbyshire

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

UNLIMITED MILES SEXTET: MILES DAVIS AT 100 Sunday, April 5 | 7:00 PM Trustees Theater

Funding for the FAIRCLOTH JAZZ SERIES is provided by Bob Faircloth Sponsored by Wilson Morris Sponsored in part by Margie & B.H. Levy, Jr. Partial support by Marianna & Frank Mirabello Piano by Steinway & Sons

This special centennial program keeps one foot rooted in the rich legacy of Miles Davis while the other leaps boldly into the future. Under the direction of award-winning pianist and composer John Beasley, this all-star sextet delves into the visionary spirit and boundless creativity of Davis, exploring the vast directions his music continues to inspire. Beasley’s arrangements will cover each decade of Davis’ chameleonic career. The ensemble includes Sean Jones on trumpet, Mark Turner on saxophone, Kurt Rosenwinkel on guitar, John Beasley on piano, Ben Williams on bass, and Terreon Gully on drums.

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Striking the Right Chord At SCCPSS, we’re dedicated to giving every scholar the advantage they deserve. We proudly applaud the Savannah Music Festival for championing the power of music and sharing our belief that music education inspires whole-child growth - nurturing creativity, discipline, collaboration, and emotional intelligence.

Discover our award-winning Visual and Performing Arts programs and see how the Public School Advantage opens the door to a world of opportunity. Learn more at sccpss.com. 66

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Savannah-Chatham County Public School System 190 Technology Circle / Savannah, Georgia 31407 / 912.395.5600

As Superintendent of the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, I am proud to celebrate our continued partnership with the Savannah Music Festival. For 20 years, SMF has helped expand what is possible for our students, both in the classroom and beyond it.

SMF’s diverse programming introduces our students to global musical traditions and rich artistic histories, broadening their perspectives and deepening their understanding of the world around them. Just as importantly, these experiences help students see themselves in the arts – not only as participants, but as future performers, composers, educators, and industry professionals. By creating access and visibility, SMF demonstrates that music and the arts are not simply extracurricular experiences – they are viable and inspiring career pathways.

Our district’s strategic plan prioritizes whole-child development, ensuring students grow not only academically, but also creatively, socially, and emotionally. The arts are essential to that work. Through programs like Musical Explorers and the SMF Jazz Academy, students build discipline, confidence, cultural awareness, and collaboration skills – competencies that prepare them for success in school and in life.

We are grateful for a partnership that reflects our shared commitment to students and to the vibrancy of our community. When schools and cultural institutions work together with intention, everyone benefits – especially the young people at the center of our mission.

Thank you for supporting the Savannah Music Festival and for celebrating the extraordinary talent of our students.

Sincerely, Denise Watts, Ed.D. Superintendent Savannah-Chatham County Public School System

Mission - Together, we ignite and foster lifelong learning at the highest levels for all Vision - From school to the world; All students prepared to be successful and productive citizens “AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER”

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Community Impact

Community impact is a cornerstone of Savannah Music Festival’s mission. SMF’s music education and engagement programs spark artistic and cultural curiosity and nurture artistic development. We want all kids in Savannah to experience the freedom and the power of music and find meaningful connections with others in their community. SMF offers all educational programs at no cost to participants through the generous support of donors and sponsors.

Explorer Pass Explore all SMF has to offer with the Explorer Pass! All Savannah-Chatham County Public School System students can attend SMF general admission shows absolutely free—and bring an adult family member along! Students must

Major Investment for all community impact programming provided by the Wall Lynch Family.

present proof of SCCPSS enrollment at the

SMF Jazz Academy’s founding sponsors are Ron & Susan Whitaker.

show time.

venue box office beginning one hour prior to

SMF’s education and community impact programs are sponsored by Maura Sovchen.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Musical Explorers Now in its eleventh year, Musical Explorers is an unparalleled year-round music education program for children in the coastal region. Taught in every SCCPSS K, K-5 and K-8 school, Musical Explorers teaches students about a world of music throughout the year, incorporating multicultural music education into every aspect of a child’s schooling. Students learn about three musical traditions over the course of the year; this year students explored opera, Korean songs, and Afro-Cuban music.

For more information, visit musicalexplorers.savannahmusicfestival.org.

Developed in partnership with

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

SMF Jazz Academy Ron & Susan Whitaker, founding sponsors SMF Jazz Academy provides a unique opportunity for youth all across Savannah to develop their skills and immerse themselves in the city’s rich musical tradition. Through weekly ensemble rehearsals, private lessons, jam sessions and more, students from over 20 different schools at all levels learn the great art of jazz. Jazz Academy provides a place for youth to nurture their creativity and build self-confidence in a rich musical environment. From public concerts at District Live to a New Orleans Second Line down Broughton Street, Jazz Academy students have multiple opportunities to showcase their talents. Whether they are pursuing a career in music or simply enjoy playing in a band, students in SMF Jazz Academy gain valuable experience, recognition and most importantly, a loving community! SMF Jazz Academy is free for all participants.

SMF Jazz Academy 2025-26 Students Taylor Asquith Jirnae Berksteiner Caleb Brodhead Gabbrielle Bryant Christina Campbell Tori Carter Carter Chapman Vincent Chapman Madison Coaxum Yohan Coaxum Jaden Cooper Louisa Corbell Frank Crain Ny’mia Day Davy Deacon Rian Del Sol Kameron Gatson-Townsend Jalen Gillon Gregory (Sam) Griffin Sean Hayden Amelia Head AnneMarie Head Matai Horne Lebron Housey Charles Howell Jr. A’Naria Hutchinson Reuben Johnson

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Charlie Karpf Sam Karpf Javae’ Kirlew Charley Lambert Gram Lambert Matthew Palmer Landon Liara Lewis Ja’Breon Manigo Justin McBean Michael McClain Emery McKinney Joshua McLean Harmony Melendez Aurora Micieli Ezra Miller Ma’Laysia Moultrie Jackie Owens Jackson Temple Dion Thompson Jayden Varner Raziyiah Williams Kaleb Winder Elyana Woods Koby Yakabovits Oz Yakabovits James Yarnold

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE SAVANNAH MUSIC FESTIVAL TR

10 East Broad Street, Savannah, GA, 31401 Event Inquiries Call: 912-233-8938

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Support SMF

Giving is easy, and all gifts, no matter their size, are meaningful. Make your gift today in one of the following ways:

Donate to Savannah Music Festival and Enjoy Festival Perks! Did you know ticket sales only cover 40% of Savannah Music Festival’s annual budget? As a nonprofit organization, Savannah Music Festival relies on grants, sponsorships, and donations from music lovers like you to provide crucial operating funds to fuel our mission to present exceptional live music that entertains, educates, inspires, and unites communities. Community support enables Savannah Music Festival to present top-tier artists from around the world at intimate venues while keeping ticket prices affordable (three times lower than the national average!). We can’t do it without your help!

Donors and sponsors of Savannah Music Festival can enjoy such perks as: • Personalized Ticketing Assistance • Early Entry at General Admission Performances • Reserved Seating • Access to a Private Donor Lounge • Artist Meet & Greets • Invitations to Donor Receptions …and more!

• Call (912) 234-3378 x106 • Online at savannahmusicfestival.org/support • Mail to 120 E. 42nd St., Savannah, GA 31401 • Email development@ savannahmusicfestival.org You can also: • Set up recurring monthly sustainer gifts with your credit card • Give from a Donor Advised Fund or Qualified Charitable Distribution • Transfer a gift of stock • Contact your employer for corporate matching gifts • Make an in-kind gift • Include Savannah Music Festival in your estate plans For more information about benefits for donors and corporate sponsors, contact the Development Department at 912.234.3378 x106 or development@savannahmusicfestival.org.

Commitments between March 25 and June 30, 2026, will receive donor benefits and recognition during our 2027 season.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Leave Behind a Legacy of Music By including Savannah Music Festival in your estate plans, you can help ensure the organization’s longevity and sustainability. This will ensure that future generations of music lovers of all ages can experience incredible live music performances and access free music education programs. Planned gifts or outright contributions to SMF’s endowment fund are an investment in the longevity and sustainability of our organization. They can also reduce current estate and income taxes for individuals. By joining SMF’s legacy society, we will ensure your values are stewarded in our long-term work. Gifts through SMF’s Legacy Society can be made through one of the following ways (or a combination): » Bequests » Life Income Gifts » Gifts of Retirement Assets » Gifts of Real Estate » Charitable Lead Trusts » Gifts of Life Insurance

Savannah Music Festival would like to recognize the following Legacy Society members who have committed to SMF’s future through a planned gift: Anonymous (3) Melissa & Kelly Bouchillon Marilyn Brady Bob Faircloth Mimi & Joe Krupp Vicki & Jerry McElreath Tom & Ruth McMullin Inge & Mark Moore Dave & Sylvaine Neises Larry Pike Robert Rosenblum Susan Snow

We recommend you speak with your financial advisor about all considerations. To ensure your intent is honored and donations are invested in the SMF endowment, please name Savannah Music Festival in your estate plans (Tax ID number 58-1401616). Savannah Music Festival is a 501(c)(3) Georgia nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. For more information, please contact: Kat Clark, Associate Director of Development development@savannahmusicfestival.org (912) 234-3378 x106

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Area Map / Venues  SCAD Box Office

216 E. Broughton St., Savannah, GA 31401 912-525-5050 Monday to Friday, 10 AM–5 PM

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Pop-Up Shop 402 E. Broughton St., Savannah, GA 31401 Wednesday to Saturday, 12–7 PM Sunday 1:30–4:30 PM

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B 7 3

Venues 1

Kehoe Iron Works

2 Lucas Theatre for the Arts 3

Neises Auditorium at Telfair’s Jepson Center

4 North Garden Assembly Room at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

Hotel Partners 5 Oglethorpe Ballroom at The Desoto Hotel 6

Regina Coeli at The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist

7 Trinity United Methodist Church 8 Trustees Theater 9 Victory North Savannah

AC Hotel Savannah Historic District 601 East River Street, 912-912-9200

The Ann Savannah 110 Ann Street, 912-446-1002

JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District 400 West River Street, 912.373.9100

Municipal Grand 45 Abercorn Street, 912-785-0620

Perry Lane Hotel 256 East Perry Street, 912-415-9000

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Get your tickets! Purchasing tickets to the Savannah Music Festival is easy. Browse the lineup online and buy tickets 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ONLINE savannahmusicfestival.com Choose performances and seats 24 hours, 7 days a week. Print-at-home and mobile ticket options are available.

BY PHONE Call SCAD Box Office at 912.525.5050 Monday to Friday, 10AM - 5PM Saturday, 11AM - 4PM IN PERSON SCAD Box Office located at 216 Broughton Street Monday to Friday, 10AM - 5PM Saturday 11AM - 4PM

Tickets are also available starting one hour before showtime at the performance venue. All tickets are subject to availability. By purchasing tickets to the Savannah Music Festival, patrons agree to the SCAD Box Office and Savannah Music Festival ticket policies.

Ticket Policies CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS: Except in the event

discretion of house management.

discounted rate of $20 for all General Admission

of cancellation or postponement of a performance,

PATRON CODE OF CONDUCT: We are committed to

shows; children 6 years of age or older attending a

Savannah Music Festival does not offer ticket

providing an inclusive environment that celebrates

Reserved Seating show will need a full price ticket.

refunds. Tickets can be exchanged or donated to

exceptional live music, highlights diverse voices and

Performances marked as Family Friendly will have

the festival for resale. Exchanges are subject to

genres, and unites our community. We are dedicated

added kid-friendly activity zones at the show, and

availability and exchange fees. Tickets for donation

to cultivating a safe, comfortable and enjoyable

children are welcome to stand, move, and dance

must be received by the SMF office at least 24 hours

experience for everyone who interacts with the

throughout the venue with adult supervision. All

prior to the scheduled performance. You will receive

Savannah Music Festival. Patrons are expected to

Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools students

a tax-deductible donation receipt after the festival.

contribute to our mutually respectful and welcoming

qualify for the Savannah Music Festival Explorer Pass

HOUSE RULES: While outside food and drink will not

community, supporting the richness of music from

and can attend Savannah Music Festival general

be permitted inside any venue, food and drink will be

around the world and its transformative power. Please

admission shows for free along with one adult.

available for in-house purchase at select concerts.

refrain from behavior that could disturb other patrons

Free or reduced-price tickets for children are only

Smoking is not permitted inside any SMF venue.

and performers. Patrons may be asked to relocate or

available in person at the Savannah Box Office at 216

Animals (except service animals covered under ADA

leave if their behavior is disruptive to other audience

East Broughton Street or at the on-site box office on

regulations) are not allowed inside venues. Savannah

members or if they are violating any safety protocols.

the day of the show.

Music Festival does not admit animals that are for

Untolerated behavior includes, but is not limited to:

Classical performances are not recommended for

• Ignoring requests from SMF staff and security

children who cannot sit still for up to twenty minutes

recognized as service animals by the ADA.

regarding facility operations and emergency

at a time. All patrons, regardless of age, must have a

DANCING / STANDING: Patrons are advised to note

response procedures

valid ticket to enter the venue. This includes infants

emotional support or comfort; these animals are not

that certain shows within the lineup are marked as

• Verbal or physical harassment, including

and children who may normally sit on the lap of a

performances in which patrons are likely to be on

abusive language and gestures, threats, cursing

parent.

their feet and/or dancing. In theaters, those sensitive

or sexual language directed at others

Savannah Music Festival staff reserves the right to

to this activity are encouraged to purchase early and

• Any form of discrimination or harassment

ask children and adults who become disruptive to

select balcony/mezzanine seats closer to the front.

because of race, color, creed, religion, national

leave the venue. For questions about the suitability

ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION: All venues are

origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital

of a performance or venue for your child, please call

accessible, but please note that the Lucas and

status, sexual orientation, gender identity or

912.306.3286.

Trustees theaters, as well as Trinity United Methodist

expression, disability or veteran status

FEES: SCAD Box Office fees are included in the

Church, do not have elevators to access balcony seating. Patrons using wheelchairs must confirm

• Behavior that violates government laws and regulations

listed ticket prices but some delivery methods may be subject to additional fees. Tickets ordered over

seating access when purchasing their tickets by

CHILDREN: We strive to provide a welcoming

the phone at 912.525.5050 or in person at the SCAD

calling the SCAD Box Office at 912.525.5050.

environment for everyone. Several concerts within

Box Office at 216 East Broughton Street, Savannah,

COME UNPLUGGED: Thank you for leaving your

the lineup are family-friendly.

GA 31401, do not incur additional processing fees.

recording devices at home and silencing your cell

Children 5 years of age or younger receive free

All 2024 Savannah Music Festival tickets are subject

phones for all concerts. Photographing, videotaping

admission to all General Admission Savannah Music

to a $5.25 per ticket facility fee which is charged at

and sound recording of any Savannah Music Festival

Festival concerts when accompanied by paying

checkout.

performance is prohibited.

adult ticket holders (limit two children per one paying

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL PROGRAMS, ARTISTS AND

LATE SEATING: Late seating will take place during

adult).

VENUES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

the first appropriate pause in the program at the

Children 6 to 18 years of age receive tickets at a

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

VIP Wristband Experience About the Program 2026 marks the inaugural year of the Savannah Music Festival’s VIP Wristband Program, allowing us to create an elevated curated exclusive experience for festival goers. For its first year, the VIP Wristband program includes 3 variations for purchase including 2-day, 3-day, and 6-day option. Program Perks At the Savannah Music Festival, we pride ourselves in creating a unique musical experience where individuals can see and experience all sorts of music genres. The VIP Wristband program streamlines the process and helps individuals customize their experience for maximum enjoyment.

As a VIP Wristband member, you’ll have the opportunity to receive access to the below: • Access to up to 30 shows • Curated itineraries and maps • Concierge services at concert venues • Patron Hospitality Zones • Discounted hotel rates • Drink tickets at concert venues • Savannah Music Festival swag • And more!

Patron Hospit ality Zones

45 Abercorn St Savannah, GA 31401

110 Ann St Savannah, GA 31401

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

Proud supporters of the 2026 Savannah Music Festival

SAVANNAH tel 912.236.0261 • ST. SIMONS ISLAND tel 912.262.5996

www.huntermaclean.com savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

ARTIST BEHIND THE POSTER Aleccia Wood Savannah College of Art and Design Graphic Design & Visual Experience I am Aleccia Wood, a multidisciplinary artist from South Carolina currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Graphic Design and Visual Experience. My journey in the arts began at a young age, supported by my family through sketchbooks and painting materials. What started as drawing and painting evolved into commissioned artwork, logo design, and ultimately a deep commitment to visual communication. I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Communication and am now expanding my practice through graduate studies in Graphic Design and Visual Experience.

“Community has always influenced my artistic

voice. I see myself as a designer who creates for those who need to be seen and heard.” –ALECCIA WOOD

When I came across the opportunity on the SCAD board, it felt aligned with everything I’ve envisioned for myself. I’ve always seen myself creating for festivals and markets, designing experiences that bring communities together. Seeing this posting felt like confirmation that this opportunity was meant for me. Community has always influenced my artistic voice. I see myself as a designer who creates for those who need to be seen and heard. One of my biggest inspirations is Solange Knowles, a pioneer who creates for her community by cultivating immersive experiences through sound, performance, and cultural storytelling. What excited me most about working on the SMF 2026 poster and creative was the opportunity to design for the Savannah community while 78

building meaningful relationships with the SMF team. Their support and trust throughout the process empowered me to create something thoughtful, impactful, and culturally resonant. At this stage in my creative journey, this opportunity represents trust, trust in my ideas, my voice, and my ability to lead visually. It has strengthened my confidence in exploring concepts beyond the expected and reminded me that when you approach design with intention, it can take you anywhere. Branding a festival is no small challenge, but navigating that responsibility has shown me that I am capable of shaping large-scale experiences. It reinforces that anything is possible when vision, strategy, and community come together. See more of Aleccia’s work at www.aleccia.cargo.site.

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Proud to support the Savannah Music Festival and the artists who bring our city to life.

Enhancing education, communication, and entertainment experiences since 1978 Savannah Atlanta Charleston Stagefront.net

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

SAVOR THE RHYTHM OF SAVANNAH A DIFFERENT WAY TO STAY Named Best New Hotel in Savannah, The Ann is an apartment style hotel offering a different way to stay. Thoughtfully designed with full kitchens, living spaces, and room to settle in create the comfort of home paired with thoughtful hospitality. Throughout Savannah’s vibrant calendar of festivals, performances, and cultural events, The Ann provides a place to return to when the day winds down. Spacious apartment style residences offer room to gather, unwind, and settle in before heading back out to experience the city. Begin the morning or wind down the evening at Little James, our café by day and cocktail bar by night, where Mediterranean inspired dishes and an easygoing atmosphere invite guests to slow down and savor the moment. At The Ann, Savannah feels less like a visit and more like home.

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

(912) 446-1002

@TheAnnSavannah 110 Ann St.

Donors & Sponsors This list represents cumulative giving from contributors whose commitments were received prior to March 2, 2026. Savannah Music Festival also wishes to thank anyone who gave after the print deadline. ★ Giving includes full or partial in-kind support ♪ Giving includes full or partial support for Savannah Music Festival’s community impact programs. Please see page 68 for more information about these efforts.

FOUNDER Bob Faircloth Myles & Kimberly Gillespie Savannah-Chatham County Public School System ♪ The Wall Lynch Family ♪ Ron & Susan Whitaker ♪ DIAMOND Alcons Audio USA ★ City of Savannah ♪ Charles A. Frueauff Foundation ♪ Diana Lee Langer Jones Charles & Rosalie Morris Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Rhegan White-Clemm & Timothy Clemm ★ PLATINUM Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Anderson Stephanie Bell-Rose & Chris Rose Critz Auto Group ★ Joseph & Susan Dockman ♪ Lesley Francis PR ★ Marla & Morris Geffen ♪ Georgia Public Broadcasting ★ Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. ♪ HunterMaclean ★ J C Lewis Foundation, Inc. David & Caroline Johnson The Kennickell Group ★ Richard Kessler Jeff & LeeAnn Kole Vicki McElreath Tom & Ruth McMullin Wilson Morris Pars Oriental Rug ★ Plant Riverside District ★

Jackie & Stephen Rabinowitz Savannah Economic Development Authority Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum ★ Maura Sovchen ♪ Stage Front ★ Robin & Sandy Stuart Visit Savannah Pamela & Peter Voss GOLD Americans for the Arts Einar & Betsey Andersen ♪ The Ann Savannah ★ Anonymous Ira P. Berman & Helen A. Borrello Joel Canter & Amanda Bodian Maja & Sinisa Ciric ★ Connie & Glen Darbyshire Maria & Bill Dascombe The Courtney Knight Gaines Foundation ♪ The Hodge Foundation ♪ Bill & Bev Jaques Kaufman-Heinz LLC ★ Becky & Bill Keightley Klassikum ★ L’Acoustics ★ Margie & B.H. Levy, Jr. Dayle & Aaron Levy Larry Pike Family Charitable Fund Winston & Alma Pittman Queensborough National Bank & Trust ★ Rose Architects ★ Joyce Roché & Johnie Seals ♪ Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Shelby G. Schavoir Victory North ★ Waves ★ Susan Willetts & Alan Pritz WRHQ-FM Quality Rock Q105.3 ★ WTOC 11 ★ SILVER AT&T Georgia Atlanta Gas Light Foundation ♪ The Backline Company ★ B. Matthew’s Eatery ★ Beyond Exceptional Dentistry Walter G. Canipe Foundation ♪ Jessica Carter & Family The Chatham Foundation Tim & Dorothea Coy

Chris & Staci Donegan Steve & Carter Eagle Find Your Light Foundation ♪ Georgia Council for the Arts Georgia Power Farina & Christopher Kingsley Kiwanis Club of Skidaway ♪ Dave Lake & Linda Wright Marysue McCarthy Municipal Grand ★ Dave & Sylvaine Neises ♪ The One Hundred Children’s Foundation ♪ Regina & Rick Roney Tom Ryley & Hilary Robinson R.D. Sachdev & Adrienne Williams Jack Sanderson Savannah College of Art & Design ★ Susan Snow & John Nell The Solomons Fund Sound View Wealth Advisors, LLC | Kelly Bouchillon, Emerson Ham, Melissa Bouchillon, Eddie Ambrose ♪ Steinway & Sons ★ Mr. & Mrs. John Tucker Nina & Bill Weil Wilmington Trust WJCL ★ Harold & Peggy Yellin Zachary H. Thomas Law BRONZE AC Hotel Savannah Historic District Anonymous ♪ The Hugh & Charlene Armstrong Family Charitable Fund Kelley & Neil Berman Peter & Cindy Blodgett Tom & Susie Boardman Carole & Gene Brogdon Cadence Bank Cay Insurance Services Chatham Orthopedic Associates Enmarket Arena / Johnny Mercer Theater ★ First City Capital Management Friends of Savannah Music Festival Gretsch Drums ★ Holiday Inn Savannah Historic District ★ International Paper ♪

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

InterPark LLC / iParkit ★ Brenda Kenworthy Richard K. Lane Chad & Barbara Lawson Linda McWhorter Marianna & Frank Mirabello Phillipa S. & James L. Montag ♪ Harry & Vanita Morgan Mrs. Ellen O’Bannon ♪ Perry Lane Hotel ★ Charlie Pohl & Dr. Janice Nevin Cindy Prutzman & Gordon Taylor Publix Super Markets Charities ♪ Alex & Fonda Salgueiro Savannah Coca-Cola Bottling Company ★ Savannah Magazine ★ Savannah Morning News / Local IQ South State Bank Staybridge Suites Sterling Seacrest Pritchard Marti & Austin Sullivan Mike & Elizabeth Sweeney Thomas & Hutton Bill & Denise Thompson Truist United Community VyStar Credit Union ♪ FESTIVAL INSIDER 45 Bistro ★ Jamie & Brennen Arkins Bernard Williams & Company, LLC James & Jennifer Dwyer Wendy Furey & Lyon Jemison Great Dane ♪ Mr. & Mrs. Maurice Greene Toby W. Hollenberg George & Ann Hubbs Susan & David Johnson Chris & Bill Lanigan Jack & Barbara McMaken L Glen Lewis & John Wills David Peterson & Linda Rawlings David & Joan Resler The Savannahian ★ Steven & Nancy Sayer Bob Slagel & Sara Sands Jacqueline & Ken Sirlin David & Maureen Smith Staging-By Design ★ Loren & Diane Weil WRUU ★ WSAV ★

FESTIVAL FRIENDS The Adler Family Foundation Barbara Arentsen Lydia & Stephen Bartholow Sally Ann & Bill Bensur Mr. & Mrs. Daniel H. Bradley Robin & Lawrence Brody Dr. Adelle Burnsed-Geffen & Dr. Theodore Geffen Blake Caldwell Ham & Ceci Clark Becky Cheatham George Cohen, Realtor & Estates Christine Collins & Marc Carignan ♪ Terri & Bob Dalton John Davis Florist ★ Liza DiMarco Luxury Real Estate ★ Mary & Brian Duffy Fairfield Inn & Suites Midtown ★ Carolyn Friedland Georgia Ports Authority Peggy G. Good ♪ AM Goldkrand Cynthia Heil Mr. & Mrs. G. M. Hubbard James & Ellen Ivey Andy & Lauren Jacobson Sherry Jacobson Cedric & Crystal King Susan & Harold Lamb Betsy Lancaster Lesher Family Foundation Jenny Long Venessa Lott Lucky Savannah Vacation Rentals ★ Jocelyn Lyss The Bossick Maene Family Fund Stewart & Kelley Marshall Nancy McGirr Monica McGoldrick Jerome Meadows Mary R. Morrison Tom & Tina Mulhare Dr. Thomas Philbrick & Susan Ketchum ♪ Mary Raines Carl & Barbara Sassano Dr. John Schoettle Evan Schulman & Glorianna Davenport Alicia & Andrew Shillington Shot by Somi Studios ★ Dr. Heather Simon & Dr.

Stephen Pohl Greg Simpson David & Letta Sneed Stephanie Stapleton Obby Tapley Dale Thorpe Robert & Frances Vinyard Ric & Doreen Von Maur Christopher Walls Gail & Paul Wickes ♪ Ann Yingling AFICIONADOS Phyllis & Ken Aaron Robin & Steve Allen Margy Anderson Anonymous (2) Aria Foundation Roger & Faith Arner ♪ David & Elaine Barrow Elizabeth Barrow & Earl Hagan Beverly & Dale Bearden Vic Bell Maria Bierniak Barry Bluestone Dan & Marty Boone Melissa & Kelly Bouchillon Joe Brackin & Roberta Marcantonio Marc Briere Herbert Buchsbaum & Letta Tayler Alaric & Faye Buckner Alexandra Bush Maiorino Barbara Calhoun Ken & Diane Campbell Cartledge Foundation Katherine Charlson Mark & Meg Clemm Geordie & Patricia Cole Jamie & Heather Coleman Ascanio Colonna Ed & Joyce Conant Beverley Cox ♪ Jim & Gayle Curtiss John & Emma Derst Foundation Kevin Duffy Lori & Bruce Eckert Valerie & Ben Edwards Nina Eidell Steve & Heidi Eldred Ellsworth Design Build, LLC The Emerging Leaders Committee Fund of the Savannah Community Foundation ♪

Connie & Austin English Michael & Valerie Foradas Brenda Gaines Richard George & Elizabeth Niedringhaus AM Goldkrand Aaron & Kimberly Gordon Alexander & Anne Guira Bill Grady Mr. & Mrs. Barry Hales Jack & Mara Harrington Ben & Michelle Hart Carol & David Hevey Steve & Dianna Hudder Jefferson Hughes Joseph Jarboe Alexandra Johnston Sarah K. Jones Mr. & Mrs. Martin Kanipe Benjamin & Suzanne Karpf Mike & Wendy Laidlaw Chris & Alix Lane Catherine Lawler William Lee Mitchell Linder The Linse & Buttner Families Phillip & Lucy Livingston John & Denise MacKerron Nan & Eugene Marshall David & Kristin Mattingly Christopher & Patricia Meriam Margaret McAllister Patrick & Emily McCarthy Eric Meier Patty & Chris Meriam Karen Meyer ♪ Rob & Betsy Meyers Andres Montes Mr. & Mrs. Greg Mortimer Mr. & Mrs. John Nelson Doug & Mechelle Nobiletti Kurt Ollmann Ben & Carol Osbun Kelley Parker Monica & Albert Peetoom ♪ Tim Petry P/G Development & Design Vanessa Platacis & Christopher Constas Edward Price Terry & Sally Proffitt Kacey & Billy Ray Mr. & Mrs. David Reczek Gary & Cindy Reedy Julie & Tom Reis John Ritzert

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Lori & Rob Roberts Mary & Jerry Rooney Rowe Family Foundation Barnett & Donna Rukin James & Jennie Sasser Michael Schwarz Pearce Scott Architects Jan & David Seeley John Sheehan Dr. & Mrs. Andrew T. Sheils, Jr. Bradd & Kathi Siegel David Sink Kathleen Skelly Lamar & Edie Smith Wade & Kathy Smith Sam Spencer Priscilla & Ron Stahl Glenn & Kari Steinberg ♪ Laurie Tanner Melissa Tountas Betty Trautwein Mr. & Mrs. Jim Trolinger Mr. & Mrs. Robert Turner Ben & Lisa Van Dusen Dan & Emily Van Epp Kevin & Ellen Van Wart Lynn Weddle & Bud Green Mr. & Mrs. Pendleton P. White Mark & Emmy Wilcox Todd Robert Williams Greg Wilson Chris Wixon Beverly & Larry Wright Robyn & Dennis Zoufaly SUPPORTERS Anonymous Chris & Mary-Paula Allegaert Robert Arogeti Cheryl Chip John & Audrey Canarina Christen Clougherty ♪ Mrs. Anne Copp Mr. & Mrs. Asa Davis Brian & Sally Dunphy Taylor Ellison Kathleen Flocken Lauren Flowers Byrd Michael & Teresa Gannon Tim & Sally Golde ♪ Ann Hanley Keith Harriton Fran & Mike Howley Melanie Jackson Craig & Meg Johnson Michael & Melissa Jones

Mary & Gregory Juedes Karin Day Kingsley Richard & Debbie Kirsch Larry & Mimi Kline James Kurzweg Margaret Livingston Bay & Jeff Lobb The John & Karin McCormick Fdtn, Inc. Michael & Bradley McLeod Pat & Maryann Meehan Ron Melander Thomas Mikell William Mock & Scot Miller Mock Susan Muscarella Jeff Overman Katherine Oxnard Hugh Parker Robb & Katherine Sallee Marvin & Sonny Seals Lawrence Silverman Michelle Spiegel Susan Sutherland Sally Swift United Way of the Coastal Empire Richard Waddell Frederick Wall Rebecca Webel Gary & Judy Witbeck Sara Woodfield Linda & Michael Zoller PATRONS Stephanie Abbott Dan & Amy Abramson Dorsey Adler Michael Andrechak Alison Altman Anonymous Caroline Antonacci Annie Archbold Raya Armaly Susan Bachmann Jonathan & Jennifer Ball Vickie Bailey Mary Beckmann Nancy J. Berry Alyson Betz Duane Birrell Sumita Biswas Torlef Borsting Merrill Burns Lynn Brown Dale Buckley Donald Callahan Jerry & Sue Castelloe

Marc Chesanow Emma & Bernard Conyers, Sr. Betsy Contino Susan Corbit Brian Corey Nolly Corley & David Davenport Walter Crocker Susan Danner Mickey & Selisa Daniell Amy Davenport & John R Durrance, Jr. Michelle DeBusk Mr. Andrew & Dr. Monica Dekle Tom & Nancy Dempsey Judith Dinehart Kathleen Donohue & Mark Sanders Lorraine Dowdy Eileen Durkin Stefanie Epstein Dylan Evans J. Timothy Fausel Judi Feedham Heather Filgate Paul & Paula Fisher ♪ Jennifer Fox Nancy Fullbright Lauren Grant Janice & James Gould Mara Hale Dr. Carolyn & Mr. Michael Halpern Marcia Haring Robert Harris Grace Herrington Allison Hersh Bonny Hicks Pam & Eric Holmes Sara Horvath Sam Hubbard Tanya & Scott Jacobson Yvonne Jouffrault Holland Judkins Farzin Karim Marcus & Sarah Kenney Thomas Keaveny Steve King Don Klesick Neil & Cathy Lamb Kayne Lanahan Karen Lange Esther Lawrence Fund Barbara & David Levitt Beverly Ling Cara Lonergan Chad & Biza Mabry William Massey

Mike McCarn Gloria McGough ♪ David Minkovitz Kenneth Moller Bob & Mary-Jane Newbert Tom & Diane Oxnard Allison Pence ♪ Barbara Pilzer Constance Pittman Sudha Ratan Kim Ribbens Brian Rickenbacker Timothy Ridge Johnnye Rogers Mary V. Roney John Paul & Melissa Rowan Erin Satterfield Mr. & Mrs. Alan Seidman Nancy & Carlton Sheets Terese Shelton Gail & Michael Siegel Chip & Betsey Slocum Bill & Colleen Stanton Scott Stiles Brad & Jill Strauss Michael & Jill Sweeney Marcia & Paul Thompson Steven Torres Beth Vantosh Richard Waddell Kimberly Waller Paul & Harriet Weinberg Michael & Kristen Willoughby Meggan Wood James Wynd Yoryos Yeracaris Paul & Jeanne Yhouse ♪ Emily Young Elizabeth Zaic

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

TRIBUTE GIFTS Nancy J. Berry, in memory of Sue Reilly Merrill Burns, in memory of Sue Reilly Jerry & Sue Castelloe, in honor of Vicki McElreath Katherine Charlson, in memory of Elbert O. Hand Tim & Dorothea Coy, in memory of Sue Reilly Critz Auto Group, in memory of Sue Reilly Becky & Bill Keightley, in memory of Sue Reilly Larry & Mimi Kline, in memory of Sue Reilly

Ben & Carol Osbun, in honor of Ron & Susan Whitaker Robert & Helen Scolnick, in memory of Sue Reilly Betty Trautwein, in memory of Bill Trautwein SINISA CIRIC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SPONSOR Diana Lee Langer Jones PHILIP DUKES ASSOCIATE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR SPONSOR Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly WINTER BASH SPONSORS Beyond Exceptional Dentistry, Presenting Sponsor Carole & Gene Brogdon Cadence Bank George Cohen, Realtor & Estates Jessica Carter & Family Georgia Power James & Ellen Ivey David & Caroline Johnson Enmarket Arena / Johnny Mercer Theater ★ The Kennickell Group ★ Farina & Christopher Kingsley Jeff & LeeAnn Kole Diana Lee Langer Jones Liza DiMarco Luxury Real Estate ★ Cindy Prutzman & Gordon Taylor Joyce Roché & Johnie Seals Dr. Heather Simon & Dr. Stephen Pohl Susan Snow & John Nell Sound View Wealth Advisors, LLC | Kelly Bouchillon, Emerson Ham, Melissa Bouchillon, Eddie Ambrose ★ Sterling Seacrest Pritchard Robert & Frances Vinyard The Wall Lynch Family ★ Ron & Susan Whitaker Rhegan White-Clemm & Timothy Clemm Zachary H. Thomas Law FORD HOUSE CONCERT SPONSORS Harry & Vanita Morgan Jackie & Stephen Rabinowitz Mike & Elizabeth Sweeney Bill & Denise Thompson

ENCORE SPONSORS B. Matthew’s Eatery, Presenting Sponsor ★ Jamie & Brennen Arkins Shot by Somi Studios ★ Greg Simpson Zachary H. Thomas Law HEADQUARTERS FUND CONTRIBUTORS As of 03.02.2026 PLATINUM RECORD Vicki McElreath Jeff & LeeAnn Kole Phillipa S. & James L. Montag Obby Tapley GOLD RECORD Steve & Carter Eagle Dayle & Aaron Levy Joyce Roché & Johnie Seals BLACK RECORD Friends of Savannah Music Festival Jack & Barbara McMaken Jacqueline & Ken Sirlin Pamela & Peter Voss LIFETIME GIVING $1.5+ MILLION Bob Faircloth $1+ MILLION Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. Ron & Susan Whitaker $500,000+ Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Anderson Anonymous Charles A. Frueauff Foundation Morris Multimedia Inc. / Charles & Rosalie Morris Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Savannah-Chatham County Public School System Visit Savannah The Wall Lynch Family $250,000+ Atlanta Gas Light Foundation Tim & Dorothea Coy Critz Auto Group Floor & Decor Nancy & Larry Fuller

The Courtney Knight Gaines Foundation Marla & Morris Geffen Georgia Power Bob & Alice Jepson Dayle & Aaron Levy Tom & Ruth McMullin Memorial Health Wilson Morris Dave & Sylvaine Neises Jackie & Stephen Rabinowitz Savannah Economic Development Authority Shelby G. Schavoir Pamela & Peter Voss Anne P. West Wet Willie’s Management Corp./ Dr. Bill Dickinson & Dr. Joe Ann Brandt $100,000+ Anonymous R. Scott & Meredith D. Belford David & Linda Bush Byck-Rothschild Foundation, Inc. The Chatham Foundation Maria & Bill Dascombe Danyse Edel First City Capital Management Friends of Savannah Music Festival Georgia Ports Authority Myles & Kimberly Gillespie Mr. & Mrs. Robert L. Harrison Willard & Jean Holland Toby W. Hollenberg George & Ann Hubbs Joan & Jim Hunter The Hunter Foundation International Paper David & Caroline Johnson Jeff & LeeAnn Kole Kole Family Foundation Dave Lake & Linda Wright Diana Lee Langer Jones Mrs. Robert O. Levitt Robert M. & Diane vS. Levy Family Foundation Margie & B.H. Levy, Jr. Levy Jewelers J C Lewis Foundation, Inc. Carolyn Luck McElveen Vicki McElreath Mercer University School of Medicine Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation

John T. Neises Larry Pike Family Charitable Fund Plant Riverside District ★ Publix Super Markets Charities Stephanie & Michael Reardon Barbara Ruddy Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Savannah Morning News / Local IQ Savannah College of Art & Design The Solomons Fund Sound View Wealth Advisors, LLC | Kelly Bouchillon, Emerson Ham, Melissa Bouchillon, Eddie Ambrose South State Bank Robin & Sandy Stuart Marti & Austin Sullivan Lorlee Tenenbaum The Albert Tenenbaum Family Fund The William Randolph Hearst Foundation The Alice M. & Thomas J. Tisch Foundation Mr. & Mrs. John Tucker Doug & Lamar Webb Wells Fargo Foundation Rhegan White-Clemm & Timothy Clemm Gail & Paul Wickes Susan Willetts & Alan Pritz Harold & Peggy Yellin

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Committees EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE David Johnson, Chair Tim Coy Mary Armstrong Dugas Bill Jaques Bill Keightley Thomas V. Reilly May Wall Ron Whitaker Rhegan White-Clemm Harold Yellin FINANCE COMMITTEE Bill Keightley, Chair Steve Eagle Mario Hilliard David Johnson Thomas V. Reilly Rhegan White-Clemm DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Rhegan White-Clemm, Chair Maja Ćirić David Fowler Ben Hart Bill Jaques David Johnson Farina Wong Kingsley Olivia Parker Kacey Kennickell Ray Joyce Roché David Sneed Zachary H. Thomas Ron Whitaker Susan Whitaker ENDOWMENT COMMITTEE Melissa Bouchillon, Chair Mary Armstrong Dugas Lane Curlee David Johnson Larry Pike Thomas V. Reilly Ron Whitaker GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE Bill Jaques, Chair David Johnson Jeff Kole Joyce Roché Zach Thomas May Wall Harold Yellin

Festival Support NOMINATING COMMITTEE Mary Armstrong Dugas, Chair B.H. Levy Monica McGoldrick Kacey Kennickell Ray David Sneed Rhegan White-Clemm WINTER BASH COMMITTEE Rhegan White-Clemm, Co-chair Farina Wong Kingsley, Co-chair Maja Ćirić Meg Clemm Michelle Hart Cynthia Heil Diana Lee Langer Jones Jenny Long Venessa Lott Chad Mabry Monica McGoldrick Cindy Prutzman Susan Whitaker

MARKETING & DESIGN TEAM Maja Ćirić Larissa Thut Davidson Ryan McMaken Katelynn Santiago Meredith Sneed FRONT OF HOUSE & VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR Lane Huerta HOUSE MANAGERS Scott S. Allen Melissa Bailey Zeke Bumgarner Linda Galvan Nicole Goggin JD Goldstein Quinn Hartsfield Lane Huerta Mandy Madson Andrew Sovine Daniela Trajkovska Kendall Wayner BACKLINE The Backline Company Blackbird Backline SHOW MANAGERS Tony Clarke, Lead Show Manager Kim Achenbach Natasha Drena Jared Hall Isaac Smith Jon Waits AUDIO & PRODUCTION CREW Zach Karatassos, Production Coordinator & Audio Engineer Brenden Robertson, Lead Audio Engineer Corbin Carpenter, Audio Engineer John Edwards, Audio Engineer Steven Baumgardner Joseph Butts Eric Dunn Sean Ludwig Isaac Smith Isaac Simpson RECORDING Kevin Rose

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

LIGHTING Marta McWhorter PIANO TECHNICIAN Larry Parrish HOSPITALITY Reva Grantham, Lead Hospitality Coordinator Michelle Elberly Jennifer Jennings Floyd Justice DONOR HOSPITALITY Lee Avallone Scarlett Brissie Katie Griffith Joe Sherman Caroline Sorunke ARTIST RELATIONS Brenna Dudley, Chamber Series Rehearsal Manager Jon Waits, Artist Liaison VIP WRISTBAND EXPERIENCE Bari Pearlman MERCHANDISE Tara Garrigan Marie Garrigan Nancy Maia Kara Powis Robin Richardson Judi Szenes Kate Tierney FESTIVAL SHOP Elizabeth LaShawn Floyd FESTIVAL CATERER Cha Bella TRANSPORTATION COORDINATOR Steve Dent PAGE TURNER Henry Dukes PROGRAM NOTES Dr. Sinisa Ciric PROGRAM BOOK Amy Condon Kristopher Monroe

Volunteers PHOTOGRAPHERS Elizabeth Leitzell, Director of Photography Frank Stewart, Senior Photographer Somi Benson-Jaja VIDEOGRAPHER Josh Jasso OFFICE & FESTIVAL SUPPORT Laiken Williams EDUCATION PROGRAM EVALUATION Bluknowledge LLC SMF JAZZ ACADEMY INSTRUCTORS Marisa Webster, Trumpet Sarah Hamilton, Saxophone, Ensemble Director Jawren Walton, Saxophone, Ensemble Director Jaron McCarr, Trombone, Ensemble Director Andrae Murchison Spencer Alexander, Guitar Jared Hall, Piano Eric Jones, Piano Reggie Carson, Bass Anthony Teixeira, Bass Marc Cordray, Drum Aaron Jennings, Drum MUSICAL EXPLORERS TEACHING ARTISTS Nicole Borosowicz Ivan Estrada Campos Necol Ronda Johnny Scott Caroline Sorunke SPECIAL THANKS 21st Century Community Learning Centers Kim Achenbach Delandrian Aikens Megan Ave’Lallemant Derrick Butler Coastal Middle School Jezmin Daniels Deep Center Julian Childers First Presbyterian Church Front Porch Improv Kasey Haessler

Billy Hoffman Tom Hutcherson Molly Lieberman Live Oak Public Libraries Loop It Up Josh Lotz Adelle McCall Elizabeth McCullar Dr. Yanis Medina Jonathan Murphy Janviaire Parker Pooler Juneteenth Committee Yves Prager Christine Reilly David Rhan Melody Rivers Christina Routhier Brandy Simpkins School of Humanities at Juliette Gordon Low Elementary Susie King Taylor Community School Erika Tate Jean’ne Townsend Tameka Tribble Cynthia Utterbach Evanita Wallace-Lewis Noelle Westmoreland

Kimberly Angle Marshall Angle Donna Antonucci Craig Arcos Bill Atkinson Aleeyah Arroyo Jim Ball Irsa Barillas Cheryl Barth Chris Bazemore Richard Berard Deanne Bergen Thomas Berger Amy Berkson Inessa Bredeson Laurence Breslow Penny Breslow Chloé Briggs Deletha Brooks Edward Brown Virginia Brown Harding Brumby Barbara R Burch Paul Burcham Dawn Burdick Debbie Burnette Brian Burtnik Hannah Burtnik Joseph Buttner Mandi Caldwell Sara Rivero Calle Jennifer Carver Patrick Carver Celeste Doppel Cavert Harry Center Carol Chambers Dee Childs Linda Clarkson Astrid Clos Ruth Cohan Debbie Cohen Toni Coin Conni Connan Christy Cook Paul Coote Joan A Coppedge Leeanna Cucchi David Curley Gary Czvornyek Janice Czvornyek Victor Dasher Dan Oneal Davis Donnielle Davis Michael Denny Joseph Depietro Virginia Dery Elena Dixon

savannahmusicfestival.org | box office: 912.525.5050

Cathryn A Dravis John M Dravis Nicole Dunbar Jay John Eddinger Hannah Eckert Nerissa Edwards Christine Eide Austin English Connie English Meri Erickson Albert Ewert Kathy Flaherty Edward P Flanagan Linda Flanagan Jean Fogle Roy Fortmann Lynn Gainty Michael J Galligan Jack Galloway Sandra Gee Leona Gerido Cynthia Goldberg Pamela C Gordon Tom Gordon Sue Gorecki Sydney Gray Bob Greenberg Rahman Grimes Madilynn Hagemes Ava Hagemes MJ Harris Cara Hart Heidi Hassan Anne Hawks Lindsay Regan Hayes Peggy Hegarty Cynthia Heil Linda Heintz Jillian Heinz Phoebe Henighan Alberto Hernandez Eddinger Joyce Herolt Todd Holsten Jacqueline Hood-Baker Nicholas Hull Askia Jackson Mary Ellen Johansen Jay John Penny Johnson Mary Juedes Lisa Kanda Laurie Karian Nan Kelly Greg Killeen Deborah King Susan Kirk Richard Kowal 87

Javette Laremont Carol Lattmann Denise Lee Kesha L Lee Michael Lewis Abbey Li Anne Lindsay Miriam Litchfield Hank Little Kim G Little Gail Ember Long Deborah Loughney Michael William Maher Cindy Male Tracey Marquez William Lee McCarn Kathy Mccathie Joe McGowean Kim McIntyre Anita McLees Lynne McSweeney Dawn Meade Haven Mellor Kathleen Mikles Lee Mikles Deforest Miller Kathleen Miller Lou Milliken Chuck Moeller Debbie Moeller Lucy Monahan Judy Monroe MonaLisa Monroe Rick Monroe Joe Morris Paul Neill Thomas Nesmith Bill Nigro Kris Nilson Stuart Nitekman Lori Norden Joey Nowell Tom O’Brien Kathleen Ogden Becky Orsi Chrissi Oscar Tiffany Padilla Dino Papadopoulos June Parina Terri Parker Gauri Patel David Peek Joseph Points Connie Polk Amelia Poppell Marie Powell Anne Powers-West Tracie Price Annie Quinting Christopher Rader

Annette Ramos David Rasmussen Ishana Ratan Sudha Ratan Judith Reese Ryann Riehle Donna Riley Raymond Riley GL Roberts Rob Roberts Robin Robertson Lori Robes Linda Runge Shonda Russell-Nelems James Sadwith Michael Schroeder Alan Seidman Leslie Seidman Michaela Shank Michele Shimp Jennifer Simmons William Simmons Faustina Lee Smith Philip Smith Sherry Smith Ann Snope David Soeffner Marcey Soeffner Bob Spell Jeanne Spell Stevie St Clair Terry Sylvester Cate Taylor Joan Taylor Ray Taylor Tinara Thomlinson Martha Treutelaar Matthew Vetter Julie Van Pelt Claudia Venherm Sandra Ward Pat Watkins Trevon Watson Misha Watts Russell Watts Sherry Weir Leslie Westmoreland David Wheeler Debbie Whiteway Stephen Whiteway Al + Cindy Williams Jan Williams Lynn R Williams Sandra Workman Tom Workman Beatrice Ziaja-Henderson Paige Zofcak

2026 MUSICAL EXPLORERS VOLUNTEERS Marshall Angle Joe Buttner Tara Cheeks Shurrander Chisholm Conni Connan Cristina Delgadillo Jay “Jason” Eddinger Linda Flanagan Rahman Grimes Cynthia Heil Genyetta Gray-Hosendorf Ken Hudlow Denise Lee Kathleen Miller Jessica Mnieckowski Joey Nowell Tom O’Brien Baron Perry David Rasmussen Sue Scherer Tameka Tribble

S A V A N N A H M U S I C F E S T I V A L A World of Music. One City.

In Memoriam

Susan G. Reilly April 12, 1948 - January 22, 2026 Devoted supporter and music lover Susan G. Reilly passed away on January 22, 2026, in Savannah, Georgia. Sue was an enthusiastic volunteer and board member with the Savannah Children’s Choir and the Savannah Philharmonic. She and her husband, Tom, were also steadfast supporters of the Savannah Music Festival, with Tom often noting that Sue was the festival’s number one fan. A devoted champion of classical music, Sue and Tom generously underwrote the Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Associate Artistic Director position held by Philip Dukes, whose creative chamber music programming has introduced Savannah audiences to remarkable emerging and established classical artists. Sue’s warmth and gracious spirit made her a joy to see at the festival. She will be deeply missed by the Savannah Music Festival community.

Susan Shelby Griswold Schavoir March 27, 1939 – January 8, 2026 Former Savannah Music Festival board member Shelby Schavoir passed away on January 8, 2026, in Old Lyme, Connecticut. Shelby served on the Savannah Music Festival Board from 2014 to 2025 and remained a generous champion of the festival and its education programs, even after relocating to Connecticut full time in 2022. A passionate lover of music, particularly classical, she was a familiar and welcome presence at festival performances, especially at Trinity United Methodist Church. Shelby’s enthusiasm, loyalty, and steadfast support will be remembered with deep gratitude by the Savannah Music Festival community.

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