Jazz Fest 2026 - The Art of the Song
Jeanne Franks with Mark Burnell + Stacy McMichael
Close out Jazz Fest 2026 in style with our signature Jazz Sunday Brunch at Commune + Market, featuring the elegant vocals of Jeanne Franks, joined by acclaimed pianist Mark Burnell and bassist Stacy McMichael for a soulful afternoon of jazz, brunch, and celebration.
A celebrated Chicago jazz vocalist and longtime on-air host of “DCB Jazz” on WDCB 90.9 FM, Jeanne Franks has spent decades immersed in the city’s vibrant jazz community. A Chicago native, Jeanne began studying piano at age five and later expanded into flute and voice, building a musical foundation that has carried her through an impressive and diverse performance career. For over twenty years, she was a soprano and featured soloist with the renowned Wooten Choral Ensemble, performing spirituals, gospel, and contemporary works at venues including the Cadillac Theater, Symphony Center, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Her solo jazz performances have taken her from Chicago to Paris, captivating audiences with her warmth, sophistication, and rich storytelling through song.
Joining Jeanne is Mark Burnell, a pianist, vocalist, and arranger praised by the Chicago Tribune as “silky smooth and highly polished.” A veteran of the Chicago jazz scene, Burnell has performed with jazz luminaries including Dave Frishberg, Richie Cole, Louie Bellson, and Connie Francis, while also teaching at Northwestern University, Roosevelt University, and Carnegie Mellon University. His refined style and inventive arrangements make him one of Chicago’s most sought-after jazz pianists.
Joining on bass will be Stacy McMichael. Stacy is one of Chicago’s premier bassists, equally at home on upright and electric bass and accomplished across a wide range of musical styles. Stacy’s diverse musical accomplishments include a #1 debut album on the Billboard Traditional Jazz chart (featuring Frank Catalano & Smashing Pumpkins drummer Jimmy Chamberlin), an upcoming musical film / cast album by 2-time GRAMMY winners Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer “All Wigged Out”, multiple tv/podcast appearances, national publication articles, International tours, a Joan Rivers televised special, and a PBS concert feature of the band of which she has led for over 15 years: lePercolateur. Stacy holds a master’s degree in Jazz Bass Performance & Pedagogy from the University of Miami and a bachelor’s degree in Double Bass Performance from the University of Nebraska–Omaha. She also shares her expertise as an adjunct professor at Olivet Nazarene University and Saint Xavier University.
Together, this exceptional trio will deliver a sophisticated set of jazz standards, soulful interpretations, and timeless favorites—the perfect soundtrack for a leisurely Sunday afternoon.
Guests will enjoy a full brunch buffet and two drink tickets included in the ticket price, with a cash bar available throughout the event.
There’s no better way to close out a weekend of world-class jazz than with great music, delicious food, and community. Join us for the final notes of Jazz Fest 2026 and celebrate the spirit of jazz in true Harbor Country style.
Producer: Heidi Smith