The Eagles and Ivories Ragtime Fest returns to Muscatine Jan. 14-17, 2027, celebrating its 33rd year with four days of ragtime and jazz performances, silent films, gospel music and special events at venues throughout the community.
Presented by the Muscatine County Arts Council, the festival brings internationally acclaimed musicians to the Mississippi River community, including The Saint Louis Stompers, Andy Schumm, Jeff Barnhart, Anne Barnhart and Quad Cities jazz drummer Josh Duffe. Local favorites, the Mad Creek Mudcats, will also perform.
Festival highlights include an opening cabaret Thursday, Jan. 14, at The Merrill Hotel featuring The Saint Louis Stompers and the Sweet & Hot Quartet. Friday’s schedule includes a free afternoon kickoff concert at Addington Place of Muscatine, followed by the popular Soup Supper and an evening concert. Saturday features Eagle Watch at Pearl City Station, a silent film with live musical accompaniment at the Muscatine Art Center and additional concerts throughout the day. The festival concludes Sunday with a Ragtime/Jazz Gospel Worship Service featuring the Mad Creek Mudcats.
The festival’s 2027 Artist in Residence, Andy Schumm, will also bring early jazz to schools and senior centers throughout Muscatine County through educational programs scheduled Jan. 11-15. The Chicago-based multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger and bandleader is known for his authentic revival of 1920s and 1930s jazz. He plays cornet, clarinet, saxophones, piano and drums, and the residency will also provide opportunities for homeschool students to participate.
Festival events will take place at The Merrill Hotel, Wesley United Methodist Church, Muscatine Art Center, Pearl City Station and Addington Place of Muscatine.
Full-festival passes covering all weekend performances are $70. Individual concert tickets range from $10 to $20. Tickets are available online at Zeffy or in person at Flowers on the Avenue, 1138 E. 9th St. in Muscatine.
For the complete schedule, artist biographies and ticket information, visit muscatineartscouncil.org.
The Eagles and Ivories Ragtime Fest is organized by the Muscatine County Arts Council, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the arts and providing cultural, educational and entertainment opportunities throughout Muscatine County.
