Schedule Of Events

September 4, 2025

Kick-Off Performance

The Mainstay in Rock Hall once again ushers in the Chestertown Jazz Festival with NYC-based Great American Songbook stylist/ jazz vocalist Hilary Gardner in her fourth return visit. 

Location : The Mainstay Arts Center, 5753 Main Street, Rock Hall, MD 21661

September 6, 2025

SOMBARKIN – A Cappella Gospel
The acclaimed gospel trio Sombarkin features the vocal talents of Karen Somerville, Lester Barrett, Jr. and Jerome McKinney. The group uses the skill of vocal instrumentation and precision harmonies to deliver a moving and uplifting performance of Negro spirituals, map (code) songs, folk, and gospel. And for this occasion, they will flavor a few of their pieces with Jazz. Their polyphonic technique is reminiscent of the ‘ole time religion’ and ‘campground’ styles of a cappella music that they deliver with their soulful sound.

HENDRIK MEURKENS – Harmonica & Vibraphone
Performing on both chromatic harmonica as well as the vibraphone, Hendrik Meurkins, virtuoso player and composer, brings his love of all types of music, including Brazilian Jazz. He is considered the first major new voice on the harmonica since Toots Thielemans. This, as well as his immersion into the music and culture of Brazil, has repeatedly earned him accolades in the Downbeat and Jazziz Polls.

GENERATIONS BANDING TOGETHER – Emerging & Established Talent
A musical collaboration between Kent County High School students and professional musicians. This dynamic ensemble blends youthful talent with seasoned guidance to create an inspiring intergenerational sound.

Producers include: Philip Dutton – Community musician/activist, Jodi Bortz – Kent County High School Music Director, and Judi O’Brien – KCHS band parent/community member.

Mentors and local musicians include: Dave James (band leader, trumpet), Nevin Dawson (viola), Marc Quigley (guitar), Sem Ortiz (vocals), Frank Gerber (drums), Dave Sharp (bass), and more.

With support from John Schratwieser and Hester Sachse of Kent Cultural Alliance and KCHS Band Booster president Krista Lamoreaux.

JERRY WELDON – Saxophone
Internationally renowned saxophone player, Jerry Weldon, has been on the jazz scene for more than 45 years. Some of his associations have included the legendary Lionel Hampton Orchestra, master organist Jack McDuff, and as a charter member and featured soloist with Harry Connick Jr.’s Big Band. He continues performing and recording with many of the most admired Jazz artists of our time. A “musician’s musician,” he is a first-class showman in the truest sense of the word and is sought after as a bandleader and in-demand sideman at festivals and jazz venues around the world.

JERRY WELDON – Saxophone
Internationally renowned saxophone player, Jerry Weldon, has been on the jazz scene for more than 45 years. Some of his associations have included the legendary Lionel Hampton Orchestra, master organist Jack McDuff, and as a charter member and featured soloist with Harry Connick Jr.’s Big Band. He continues performing and recording with many of the most admired Jazz artists of our time. A “musician’s musician,” he is a first-class showman in the truest sense of the word and is sought after as a bandleader and in-demand sideman at festivals and jazz venues around the world.

Location : Wilmer Park, 413 S Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620

Date : September 6, 2025

Location : Wilmer Park, 413 S Cross Street, Chestertown, MD 21620

Click Here For More Information