Giving traditional Jewish music a new flavor by infusing elements of jazz, balkan, funk, latin, and polka, Schmaltz blends traditional Klezmer sensibilities with modern influences to produce their energetic, horn forward sound. With roots deeply seeded at the University of Michigan, the band features a number of SMTD alumni and is proud to call Ann Arbor home.

Laz and San Slomovits, the duo Gemini, moved to Ann Arbor in 1973, and have played The Ark every year since then. About twenty years ago, San’s daughter, Emily, began joining them on stage, necessitating a new name for their trio, Gemily (Gemini + Emily). They’re known for their beautiful voices, genetically tight harmonies, a stage-full of instruments, and songs and instrumentals ranging from traditional American and British Isles folk music, to songs of the 60s Folk Revival, klezmer tunes, pop songs and their own originals.

For over a decade, Jill Jack has celebrated her birthday the best way she knows how — through music, with her beloved fans and incredible band! Join the party as The Jill Jack Band electrifies the stage and fills the room with love, laughter, and unforgettable melodies. Happiness is guaranteed — all you need to do is buy a ticket!

Ember & Ash, the duo forged by Erin Zindle and Alex Holycross, is as captivating and dangerous as a spark on the wind in the dry season. Armed with fiddle and guitar, these two Michigan songwriters have had long careers, both defying genre boundaries in their own respective bands (The Native Howl’s “Thrash Grass” and The Ragbirds’ edgy global folk-rock).

The Rupple Brothers are a psychedelic folk ensemble who combine a love for family, music, life, and improvisation to create a musical space unlike any other. Born unto song, brothers Evan and Cole, and an ever expanding cast of soul brothers, traverse the entire spectrum of sound and space; each being proficient in multiple ways of musical strangeness, while bringing a positive and powerful family message with their brand of wild folk.