The Savannah Music Festival (SMF) is committed to providing a world-class celebration of the performing arts by crafting classic and dynamic performances that nurture art education, encourage economic development, and create bridges between artists and audiences in Savannah. Its vast productions within the 17-day festival each spring make it one of Georgia's biggest musical events and one of the most various cross-genre music festivals worldwide, with more than 100 shows gracing its stages.
Established in 1989 and originally called Savannah OnStage International Arts Festival, the Savannah Music Festival was realized through a collaboration of various community leaders guided by the Chamber of Commerce. In 2002, Rob Gibson was appointed as Executive and Artistic Director to further SMF's development, resulting in its current name being adopted.
By inspiring and engaging with audiences of all ages, the not-for-profit organization, SMF strives to promote musical arts. They are dedicated to providing a range of performances, such as dance, film, and narrative programs year-round. This includes youth concerts, lectures for schools, an annual high school jazz band competition plus weekly radio series recordings, and other digital initiatives like online projects or streaming services. SMF focuses on creating original productions that range from one-time-only plays to premieres & double bills - many of which originate from commissioned works!
For almost two decades, the Savannah Music Festival has developed a particular music education program in this region that is distinctly different from any other arts organization. Comprised of Music For Our Schools, Swing Central Jazz, and the Acoustic Music Seminar, its mission is to promote how art can nurture cognitive abilities and physical and emotional growth in all children. Every year it provides enrichment to over twelve thousand kids within Savannah and six counties nearby.
