Birch Creek Announces 2026 Fall Concert Series

Jazz, Dueling Pianos, and Holiday Traditions Return to Juniper Hall

Egg Harbor, Wis. (August 13, 2026) – Birch Creek Music Performance Center invites audiences to experience its 2026 Fall Concert Series, featuring an exciting lineup of acclaimed faculty artists and guest performers. From iconic Blue Note jazz and the return of Door County’s favorite piano showdown to the infectious rhythms of Dixieland and a beloved holiday tradition, this season offers exceptional live music in the intimate setting of Juniper Hall.

The series opens on Saturday, September 12 at 7:00 PM with the Michael Stryker Quintet: A Blue Note Tribute. Led by Birch Creek faculty pianist Michael Stryker, the quintet celebrates the legendary Blue Note Records catalog with an evening of hard-bop classics and soulful standards. The program pays tribute to one of jazz’s most influential labels, bringing timeless music to life through dynamic performances and inspired improvisation.

Returning by popular demand, Dueling Pianos: “The Sequel to the Sequel” reunites Birch Creek piano faculty member Jodie DeSalvo and guest artist Colin Welford for three performances on Friday, September 18 at 3:00 PM and Saturday, September 19 at 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM. Packed with dazzling piano duets, humor, audience interaction, and musical surprises, this latest installment promises another entertaining chapter in one of Birch Creek’s most popular concert experiences.

On Saturday, September 26 at 7:00 PM, Talk of the Town returns to Juniper Hall with clarinetist Kevin Van Ess and his nationally recognized Dixieland jazz band. Bringing the spirit of Bourbon Street to Door County, the ensemble delivers upbeat rhythms, spirited improvisation, and classic New Orleans favorites that have made them a perennial audience favorite.

The Birch Creek Associates’ annual Fall Fundraiser takes place on Saturday, October 10, featuring the Kirby Fellis Quintet. The evening begins with a social hour at 5:30 PM, followed by hors d’oeuvres at 6:00 PM and a 7:00 PM concert led by Birch Creek faculty member Kirby Fellis. Guests will enjoy an evening of soulful jazz, timeless standards, and original compositions while supporting Birch Creek’s mission. Proceeds from the fundraiser benefit Birch Creek students. Tickets are $100 per person, with proceeds benefiting Birch Creek students.

The series concludes on Saturday, December 5 with Christmas at Birch Creek, a treasured holiday tradition featuring a 2:30 PM Family Matinee and 7:00 PM Evening Concert. Audiences will enjoy festive seasonal favorites performed by Birch Creek’s Symphony Brass, Percussion Program Director Dan Moore, guest artists, and the Door County Community Bell Choir. Children 11 and under receive free admission to the Family Matinee, making it a festive holiday outing for families.

All performances are held at Juniper Hall on the Birch Creek campus.

Tickets for the Fall Concert Series are available now at BirchCreek.org/Tickets or by calling (920) 868-3763. Tickets for the Birch Creek Associates’ Fall Fundraiser will be available soon.

Celebrating its 51st season, Birch Creek Music Performance Center is Door County’s unique summer music venue and residential music academy located in Egg Harbor, WI. With a performance emphasis, academy students are taught by nationally known performers and educators during the day and perform alongside them in concerts at night. Four sessions are offered each summer: Percussion, Steel Pan & World Music; Symphony; and two Big Band Jazz sessions. In mid-August, enrichment opportunities for adult musicians are offered through Wind Ensemble, Chamber Music, and Piano Retreats. A Fall Concert Series runs September – December. Proceeds from all Birch Creek events and concerts provide support for Birch Creek students.