Images from Facebook / By Marlena Ballinger

Local and regional performers are preparing for Bluffton's Play Music on the Porch Day (a.k.a. PorchFest) on August 29. This worldwide movement encourages people to spend the day outdoors, visiting with neighbors while playing or listening to music.

There will be 29 acts performing in Bluffton neighborhoods. For a complete lineup and a map of where the bands will be playing, visit the event Facebook page.

Here is a preview of the bands Tea Set, 50 for America’s 250 and A.W.O.L. See also 2026 PorchFest preview: Blanchard Creek Band, Conner Raines and AJ Knepper

Tea Set
According to the band’s website, Tea Set is a psychedelic and alternative rock band based in Findlay, Ohio. The band was formed in 2023 with original performers being Landon Smith, Lucas Gentry, Marc Schilder, and Keller Morris. In 2025, Tanner Borowski replaced Marc as the bass player, and the band welcomed Alejandra Hernandez as the keys player.

The band plays a unique blend of neo-psychedelia, progressive rock, blues, funk, and indie influences, inspired by songs from 60’s British rock and 70’s New Wave. Their music offers something for everyone by combining intricate layers and experimental sounds. The band released its first single, “Someday,” in 2025 and is available on all listening platforms.

50 for America’s 250
Bluffton natives John Jantzen and Wendy Chappel-Dick combine talents for this patriotic set. The duo challenged themselves to learn 50 songs in celebration of America 250. The songs they chose were popular during the Civil War, originating among immigrants, Native Americans, and enslaved African Americans. The songs were about life, faith, work, and play. Jantzen and Chappel-Dick will accompany the music with dulcimer, guitar, spoons, and harmonica. If you recognize the songs, it’s because they are from the popular Little House on the Prairie books.

A.W.O.L.
Formed through the Findlay chapter of Guitars 4 Vets, this jam band is making its second appearance in Bluffton’s PorchFest. A.W.O.L. is a group of rotating players who have participated in the Guitars 4 Vets program, designed for veterans who want to learn guitar. The program is designed to bring healing to veterans impacted by PTSD and other service-related trauma. The 10-week structured program is designed to foster renewal, connection, and community, with each participant receiving a new guitar upon completion.

The Findlay program is one of many chapters created across the United States since 2007. The non-profit organization was formed through a collaboration with a guitarist and Vietnam-era Marine who wanted to learn to play guitar but was unable to because of his own battle with the invisible wounds of war.

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