Music Institute to Present Carly and Martina in January; Launches Songwriting Program

The Music Institute of Chicago kicks off its new songwriting program with a performance by fast-rising pop duo Carly and Martina. The singer-songwriters perform on Friday, January 20 at 7 p.m. at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave. in downtown Evanston. Opening the show is Layla Frankel, local singer-songwriter and educator. Admission is free.

Carly and Martina, twin sisters who are freshmen at New Trier High School, were recently invited to appear as showcase performers at the prestigious Durango Songwriting Festival in Durango, Colorado. They have also performed in Nashville and San Francisco and at New York's Birdland Jazz Club, 54 Below, The Bitter End, and many other social and musical venues.

When they were 12 years old, the duo received their first recording contract from Wagadelic Music, the producer at Delmark Records, for their first hit single, "Make Me Happy." Alumnae of the Music Institute of Chicago, they just released their debut EP Carly and Martina.

Beginning January 30, the Music Institute will expand its educational offerings to include workshops focused on the art of songwriting. Aspiring singer-songwriters who play guitar or keyboard will learn from experienced professional musicians, each with expertise in songwriting and performing.

In addition, an Introduction to Songwriting workshop will provide a foundational overview of basic songwriting skills for those with no formal training. In addition, there will be small group workshops for songwriters with greater levels of experience.

For complete information call 847-905-1500 or visit musicinst.org/singer-songwriters-carly-and-martina.

The Music Institute of Chicago is dedicated to transforming lives through music education. Founded in 1931, the Music Institute has grown to become one of the largest and most respected community music schools in the nation. Offering musical excellence built on the strength of its distinguished faculty, commitment to quality, and breadth of programs and services, the Music Institute is a member of the National Guild for Community Arts Education and accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Pre-collegiate Arts Schools (ACCPAS). Each year, the Music Institute's teachers reach thousands of students of all ages and levels of experience. Music Institute locations include Chicago, Evanston, Winnetka, Lincolnshire, Lake Forest, and Downers Grove. In addition, the Music Institute is proud of its longstanding partnership with the Chicago Public Schools through its Arts Link program. The Music Institute offers lessons and classes, and concerts through its Community Music School, Academy, and Nichols Concert Hall. For more information, visit musicinst.org.

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