Savannah Music Festival

06/16/2026

We are proud to see Savannah Music Festival featured in Visit Savannah’s *Tourism Supports Our Community* series, with Executive Director Siniša Ćirić, Senior Director of Community Impact Jenny Woodruff, and SMF Jazz Academy Music Director Benje Daneman joining business partners and fellow arts leaders — including Kacey Kennickell of Kennickell Group and Evan Goetz of Tybee Post Theater — to highlight the important role festivals play in Savannah’s cultural and visitor economy.

Through our two-week Festival and year-round artistic, educational, and community programming, Savannah Music Festival generated an estimated $6 million in economic impact for the City of Savannah this year.

Beyond the festival season, programs such as Musical Explorers and SMF Jazz Academy continue to reach young people, expand access to music education, and create lasting community impact.

When you support Savannah’s festivals, you are supporting Savannah’s community — its artists, students, educators, small businesses, hospitality partners, and the cultural traditions that make our city extraordinary.

Thank you, Visit Savannah, for highlighting this important work and for being a valued partner in sharing Savannah’s story.

Support the music, education, and community programs that make this impact possible: https://bit.ly/SMFcreateimpact

Watch the full Visit Savannah feature here: https://youtu.be/XsP-tYJ3BMc?si=CjB2JGa-68a1ZPQl

“Savannah’s festivals do more than entertain — they strengthen our ...

06/10/2026

This weekend, Savannah Music Festival Executive Director Siniša Ćirić and Artistic Director Ryan McMaken joined fellow arts and music leaders for a panel exploring the music industry’s role in strengthening communities, supporting artists, and contributing to Georgia’s economy.

The conversation brought together members of the Recording Academy’s GRAMMYs National Advocacy Team and Atlanta Chapter, along with business partners and fellow arts leaders.

Savannah and Chatham County welcomed 12.9 million visitors in 2024, generating $4.1 billion in visitor spending. Across Georgia, nonprofit arts and culture organizations generate $1.3 billion in economic activity and support nearly 20,000 jobs—a powerful reminder that music and cultural experiences are not only essential to our communities, but also important economic drivers.

Thank you to the organizers, panelists, and everyone who joined this important conversation about the future and impact of Georgia’s music industry.


Atlanta Chapter of The Recording Academy
GRAMMY Advocacy

06/02/2026

Celebrating the heart of Savannah Music Festival: our volunteers.

Last night, we had the joy of gathering for our Volunteer Appreciation Party to celebrate the incredible people who give their time, energy, and warmth to help make the Festival possible.

From welcoming patrons and supporting artists to helping everything run smoothly behind the scenes, our volunteers are an essential part of the SMF family.

We are so grateful for each of you and all you do. Thank you for being part of the music, the community, and the magic of Savannah Music Festival. 🎶

Special thanks to our amazing partner B Matthew's Eatery and the entire Gaslight Group for hosting this celebration and for their continued support and partnership over the years.

Here’s to another season of music, community, and unforgettable moments together. 🎶

05/14/2026

We closed another wonderful year of SMF Jazz Academy with a beautiful Spring Showcase at the Ben Tucker Theater at the Otis S. Johnson Cultural Arts Center — a special afternoon celebrating the talent, dedication, and growth of our students, and the incredible work happening throughout the year.

Congratulations to our young musicians on a wonderful performance, and thank you to Program Director Benje Daneman, our dedicated instructors, staff, and everyone who helps guide and support these students.

We are especially grateful to Ron & Susan Whitaker, our founding sponsors, and to all of our generous sponsors and supporters who make SMF Jazz Academy possible.

And of course, thank you to the parents and families who show up, encourage, and support these students every step of the way.

SMF Jazz Academy is building the next generation of musicians — and the future of jazz is bright.

Photo credit: Benson-Jaja

05/11/2026

It takes passion, dedication, and a whole lot of heart to bring a festival like this to life. 💛

To our incredible staff and volunteers—thank you. From early mornings to late nights, load-in to encore, and all the work that often goes unseen—you are the reason Savannah Music Festival happens.

Follow us for off-season concert updates and a closer look at how we’re making an impact year-round through our community programs.

Photo credit: Elizabeth Leitzell and Somi Benson-Jaja

03/25/2026

It all starts today 🎶✨

Take a behind-the-scenes look at yesterday’s Media Day as we kick off the 2026 Savannah Music Festival. The stage is set—we can’t wait to welcome you.

🎟️ Last chance to get tickets! Click the link to buy yours today:
https://www.savannahmusicfestival.org/upcoming/

03/24/2026

Who else is getting excited for the Savannah Music Festival shows at VN this year??

03/14/2026

March 28 at 3:00 pm Savannah Music festival!

🎟️ https://www.savannahmusicfestival.org/event/sarod-trilogy-with-maestro-amjad-ali-khan-amaan-ali-bangash-and-ayaan-ali-bangash/

02/24/2026

Savannah Music Festival’s ENCORE After Party series gives you a backstage experience with intimate concerts from festival artists, rising regional talent, and hometown favorites. Make the most of your night out and stay out late for these underground parties you won't want to miss!

Click the link here to join now! https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/savannah-music-festival/encore-sponsorships-copy

12/02/2025

✨ It’s Giving Tuesday!

Savannah Music Festival thrives because of YOU. Without your support, this festival and its programs wouldn’t happen.

Your generosity powers:
• Our music education program, inspiring the next generation of musicians
• A world-class festival that brings unforgettable performances to Savannah
• Year-round music events that keep our community connected through the arts 🎶
As we approach the end of the year, consider making a gift today. Every donation fuels incredible live music in Savannah. 🙌

🔗 Donate today: www.savannahmusicfestival.org