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 3ih Annual Jazz Festival. With two GRAMMY® Awards and multiple platinum albums, Krall is celebrated for her contralto vocals and jazz interpretations.

Friday, June 20th:

The Lerner Theatre’s headliner show is a must-see, opening with the Connie Han Trio, known for their modern, hard-hitting approach, and presenting 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.

“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 intricate interplay of Twin Talk, Generations Trio, and the dazzling piano duets of Stephanie Trick & Paolo Alderighi. Meanwhile, the outdoor stages are alive with vibrant energy! Groove with David Hilliker’s Jazz Tribute, swing to Jazz Assemblage, the electrifying Sugar Bomb with Eli Kahn, 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.

Saturday, June 21st:

The Lerner Theatre headliner show features the legendary jazz-funk ensemble, The Headhunters. The stage will open with the talented Sam Greenfield. A ticket to the show or your” Day Pass” or “Weekend Pass” will grant you access.

“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 Mosching Quintet, the innovative Sofia Goodman Trio, the smooth sounds of Kris Brownlee, and the mesmerizing Andrea Lisa. For a more traditional jazz experience, head to the Library Atrium, where you’ll be treated to the elegant Martha Kato Trio, the 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 Elkhart-area high school bands, the heartfelt melodies of Abbie Thomas & The Crazy Hearts, VibeNation, the intimate The Frost Duo, the captivating Joe Marcinek Band, the energetic Alpha Rhythm Kings, and the soulful international sensation Nao Yoshioka. The South Main Stage will host Paul Decker & The Difference, the soulful vocals of Colleen Orender, disco-funk of The Free Label, and rock with SWC.

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 accompanied with the sounds of the Ben Davis Trio.

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: elkfestinc@gmail.com