37th Elkhart Jazz Festival
Schedule
Thu, 19 Jun, 2025 at 05:00 pm to Sun, 22 Jun, 2025 at 05:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
410 S Main St, Elkhart, IN, United States, Indiana 46516 | Elkhart, IN
Since 1988, jazz legends and fans have gathered each summer for a memorable weekend at the Elkhart Jazz Festival. Combining warm, intimate, small-town hospitality with the excitement of big city jazz, the Elkhart Jazz Festival has become an internationally acclaimed event. Today, the festival showcases more than 100 performers and draws an audience of 20,000 to our community celebration of America’s classic art form – jazz.Thursday, June 19th:
Renowned jazz vocalist and pianist Diana Krall will headline the kickoff of the 37th Annual Jazz Festival. With two GRAMMY® Awards and multiple platinum albums, Krall is celebrated for her contralto vocals and jazz interpretations.
Friday, June 20th:
“Day Pass” unlocks a treasure trove of indoor brilliance at The Lerner Theatre, Crystal Ballroom, and Library Atrium. Discover the captivating Emmaline, whose smooth vocals and vintage sound are sure to charm. Experience the rhythmic mastery of Harold Dawson, the intricate interplay of Twin Talk, the soulful artistry of Scott Allen, and the dazzling piano duets of Stephanie Trick & Paolo Alderighi. Meanwhile, the outdoor stages are alive with vibrant energy! Groove to the dynamic Jazz Assemblage, the electrifying Sugar Bomb with Eli Kahn, the foot-stomping Whistle Pigs, the passionate rhythms of Pavel & Direct Contact, the Afro-Cuban fusion of Alejandro Salazar’s Afro Cuban Exchange, and the soul-stirring sounds of Davina and The Vagabonds. The Lerner Theatre’s headliner show is a must-see, featuring the explosive Connie Han Trio, known for their modern, hard-hitting approach, and the legendary Yellowjackets, masters of jazz fusion. Secure your individual ticket (starting at $44.00), or use your “Day Pass” or “Weekend Pass” to join the celebration.
Saturday, June 21st:
“Day Pass” grants access to another day of incredible indoor performances. The Lerner Theatre hosts the rising star Isabella Isherwood for an afternoon show, while the Crystal Ballroom pulsates with the contemporary sounds of the Samuel Mösching Quintet, the innovative Sofia Goodman Trio, the dynamic Kris Brownlee, and the mesmerizing Andréa Lisa. For a more traditional jazz experience, head to the Library Atrium, where you’ll be treated to the elegant Martha Kato Trio, the vibrant Alexa Torres Quartet, the swinging Paul Keller Quartet, the soulful Emily Cavanagh, and the sophisticated Anthony Stenco Quintet. The outdoor stages are a festival within a festival! Enjoy a showcase from the talented Elkhart High School band, the heartfelt melodies of Abbie Thomas & The Crazy Hearts, the energetic VibeNation, the intimate The Frost Duo, the captivating Joe Marcinel Band, the swinging Alpha Rhythm Kings, and the soulful international sensation Nao Yoshioka. The South Main Stage will host the funky grooves of Paul Decker & The Difference, the soulful vocals of Colleen Orender, the Motown magic of Darryl Buchanan’s Soul Motown Allstars, and the dynamic SWC. The Lerner Theatre headliner show features the innovative Sam Greenfield and the legendary jazz-funk ensemble The Headhunters. A ticket to the show or your “Day Pass” or “Weekend Pass” will grant you access.
Sunday, June 22nd:
Your “Day Pass” brings you to The Lerner Theatre for a performance by local favorite, the swinging Dave Bennett Quartet. The Central Green stage opens with a free concert by the engaging Mark Schultz, followed by the harmonious Generations Trio and the captivating Shelly Cowling Quintet on the Plaza. The Lerner Theatre’s grand finale features Truth in Jazz with Gunhild Carling, a multi-instrumentalist and entertainer who will leave you in awe. Individual tickets start at $34.00, or use your “Day Pass” or “Weekend Pass.”
The Jazz Brunch in The Crystal Ballroom (sold separately) will return this year, adding the smooth sounds of the Ben Davis Trio to accompany a delicious meal.
All Jazz Fest Day and Weekend Passes may be picked up beginning Thursday, June 19, 2024 at NOON at Jazz Fest Will Call in The Lerner Grand Lobby.
Important Note: The Elkhart Jazz Festival’s ‘Day Passes’ and ‘Weekend Pass’ now include access to the Lerner Theatre headliner shows, allowing for an enhanced festival experience. However, the Thursday evening performance by Diana Krall remains a separate, ticketed event. All other Lerner Theatre headliner shows are now included within the corresponding Day or Weekend pass.
Join the “Top Brass”, all access for the weekend and recognition as EJF supporter.
For Top Brass contact: [email protected]
