Sunday August 24th, 2025 * 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

We are thrilled to present the Mike Stern Quintet for our 34th annual Jazz Festival!

Buttonwood Nature Center, home of The Institute presents our annual jazz festival, which continues to spotlight top professional artists each year that light up the outdoor stage with hot summer jazz.

As always, admission is free. We are back at the same great location this year, The Wharf (10141 Wharf Road, Waynesboro, PA).

One of the top guitarists in jazz since his breakthrough days with Miles Davis’ celebrated comeback band of the early 1980s, Mike Stern has earned the respect of colleagues and critics alike while also exerting a towering influence on a generation of aspiring players.

Stern is a six-time Grammy nominee and a living legend (as “certified” by Guitar Player magazine).

In addition to Miles Davis, his background includes stints with Billy Cobham, Blood Sweat & Tears, Joe Henderson, the Brecker Brothers, and David Sanborn. 

His influences range from the straight-ahead jazz of Wes Montgomery and Jim Hall to Jimi Hendrix and B.B. King.

A guitarist of formidable technique, Stern continues to awe and inspire six-string aficionados with his seamless blend of bebop facility, scorching rock intensity and uncommon lyricism.

As Jon Chappell of Guitar magazine noted, “Stern is not only a magician of the fretboard but a heartfelt and mature composer of great depth.”

By combining the legato approach of jazz saxophone greats like John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins and Joe Henderson with a few touches from the rock camp, Stern has successfully fashioned a singular voice that comfortably occupies both rock and jazz worlds.

Other members of the Mike Stern Quintet:

Mike & Leni Stern (guitars) Bob Franceschini (sax) Edmond Gilmore (bass) Juan Chiavassa (drums)

Rain location is Waynesboro Area Middle School.

Come back to see a list all the performers in our 34 years of Jazz Fest.

Parking is available on the property.

Those attending are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and picnics are welcome.

Cold water will be available free to all attendees.