Sam Schaeffer Trio at Jazz On Main

Rooted in the deep traditions of the jazz piano trio and driven by a spirit of exploration, The Sam Schaeffer Trio brings fresh energy and dynamic interplay to the classic format. Based in New York’s Hudson Valley and consisting of alumni of the world renowned Eastman School of Music, the trio blends swing, modern jazz, and original compositions into a sound that’s both timeless and forward-thinking. 

Sam Schaeffer is a jazz drummer, percussionist, educator, and composer hailing from Harrisonburg, Virginia located in the Shenandoah Valley. Sam holds a BA in jazz studies from SUNY Fredonia and a MM in Jazz and Contemporary Media from the renown Eastman School of Music. Currently based in New York’s Hudson Valley, Sam is active as a drummer and percussionist on both the New York and Virginia jazz scenes. 

An accomplished and varied performer, Sam has worked with such diverse musicians as John Clayton, Brad Leali, Derrick Gardner, America’s Got Talent Winner Sal Valentinetti, Delefayo Marsalis, Kim Nazarian, Mike Gibbs, and many more. In June 2025, Sam was selected as a member of the JAS Aspen Academy which included collaborations with Jose James, Alicia Olatuja, trumpeter Brian Lynch, and the academy’s Artistic Director Christian McBride. Sam also leads and composes for his own groups who have performed at the Fredonia Jazz Festival, Rochester International Jazz Festival, and other numerous venues in both Virginia and New York.