Looking for a perfect stocking stuffer for the music lovers in your life? Consider the Savannah Music Festival (SMF)! This renowned festival is set to take place from March 27 to April 12, 2025, and tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, November 22. With an impressive lineup of nearly 50 globally recognized musical artists, including trumpeter Branford Marsalis, blues legend Taj Mahal, and African vocalist Angélique Kidjo, there's something for everyone.

Highlighted Performances

The festival kicks off with concert pianist Julia Fischer on Thursday, March 27, 2025, setting a high standard for the jazz and classical genres. Pianist Michelle Cann will make her SMF debut, highlighting the works of African American female composers. Grammy-nominated saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin is set to be a future leader of jazz, as seen in her performances at Birdland.The diverse lineup also includes the avant-garde Ukrainian quartet DakhaBrakha, who will host a Borscht workshop at the Trustees' Garden. This unique addition brings a culinary element to the festival, a goal of Artistic Director Ryan McMaken.In the American Roots vein, South Carolina's Marcus King and Warren Haynes will play back-to-back nights, offering an intimate experience. The 100th anniversary of Hazel Dickens' birth will be celebrated with a concert featuring her former duo partner Alice Gerrard and Laurie Lewis and Della Mae.Interspersed among these performances are nights at the opera, Cajun and Latin dance parties, and the pulsating body beats of Step Afrika! Jason Isbell will return for his fourth appearance, showcasing the maturation of an artist.

Opera Nights

The opera performances at the Savannah Music Festival are a highlight, offering a different musical experience. The combination of classical music and the grandeur of the opera stage creates a truly immersive event.

Cajun and Latin Dance Parties

These dance parties add a lively and energetic element to the festival. The fusion of Cajun and Latin rhythms creates a unique atmosphere that gets everyone on their feet and dancing.

Step Afrika! Performances

The pulsating body beats of Step Afrika! bring a dynamic and powerful energy to the festival. Their performances are a visual and auditory delight, captivating the audience with their skill and passion.Festival tickets start at $39 and are available for purchase at savannahmusicfestival.org. Explorer passes for Savannah-Chatham County Public School students and their guardians are also offered. Amy Paige Condon is the content coach and editor for the Savannah Morning News. You can reach her at ACondon@gannett.com.