Started in 2003, the Thornapple Arts Council Jazz Festival has grown to be the largest jazz festival of its kind, matching more student groups and performers to professional jazz musicians through its clinician program than any other festival in the state. This non-competitive festival puts education and jazz promotion and appreciation at its core. The festival draws over 10,000 people each year and provides a weekend of free jazz performances to the public, as well as the chance for student groups from Michigan and the surrounding states to work with professional musicians.