Featured Guest Speaker: Dr. Sinisa Ciric- Savannah Music Festival
Presentation Recap:
At our recent meeting, Sinisa shared his excitement about stepping into his new role with the Savannah Music Festival (SMF), expressing how grateful he is to continue doing meaningful work without leaving the city he loves. “Savannah is home,” he said, “and I’m honored to continue serving here.”
📅 Mark Your Calendars: SMF 2026
March 25 – April 5, 2026
For over 36 years, SMF has been a cultural cornerstone of Georgia, growing into the state’s largest and most diverse music event. With over 50 performances spanning genres like jazz, classical, blues, roots, and global music, the festival draws both locals and visitors from across the world — some even planning their spring vacations around it.
What makes SMF unique is its commitment to excellence and purpose. Every performance must fulfill the festival’s mission to entertain, educate, inspire, and unite. This commitment, led by Artistic Director Ryan McMaken, fuels everything they do.
🎟️ By the numbers:
18,000+ annual attendees
$6.6 million in local economic impact
65% of funding comes from donations, sponsors, and community support — not ticket sales
This isn’t a commercial or pop-artist festival — it’s a community-powered celebration of diverse, live music experiences.
🌍 Expanding Access
One of the festival’s new priorities is expanding beyond downtown Savannah into midtown, making it easier for more residents to experience the magic of SMF — and ensuring it reflects and reaches the whole city.
🎓 Investing in the Future Through Music Education
Jenny Woodruff and Benge Danamen also shared powerful updates about SMF’s growing education and outreach programs:
🎼 Musical Explorers
Serves 8,000+ K–2nd grade students across Savannah
Brings curriculum-based music education into classrooms
🎷 Jazz Academy
Launched in 2020, this fully funded program currently supports:
99 students from 23 public schools
Weekly private lessons, group improvisation sessions, instruments, meals, and transportation
Free access to SMF concerts and exclusive artist masterclasses
Hosted at: First Presbyterian, Salvation Army, Lowe Elementary, and Suzy King Taylor
Creates a deep sense of confidence, belonging, and musical identity for young artists
🎤 Workshops & Residencies
These artist-led engagements bring world-class music into local spaces, offering both inspiration and hands-on learning.
🤝 How You Can Support SMF
Follow along at #SMF2026
Sponsor or donate to support free music education
Sign up for updates at savannahmusicfestival.org
Explore Explorer Passes and Encore Shows
Share the story — this is more than a festival, it’s an investment in the future of our community