In this behind-the-scenes look, Music Department Chair Rachel Brown shares how The Academy's Music and Theatre Departments worked together to bring this exciting production to the stage.
Karen Szczech, a dedicated violinist and first-generation American, graduated from the Academy's Music Department in 2017. Together with her sister Kasia, an alum from 2013, Karen co-founded Magical Keys, a versatile musical organization that includes performances, education, and community engagement.
Check out alum Akenya Seymour (Music ‘10) in the Chicago Reader’s podcast, The Sit Down, hosted by Shawnee Dez.
Karen Szczech, a dedicated violinist and first-generation American, graduated from the Academy's Music Department in 2017. Together with her sister Kasia, an alum from 2013, Karen co-founded Magical Keys, a versatile musical organization that includes performances, education, and community engagement.
On September 27, Grammy & Tony-nominated actress Elisabeth Withers (Music ’88) returned to her roots at Chicago Academy for the Arts, inspiring our students with several masterclasses and preparation for auditions. Elisabeth is best known for portraying Shug Avery in the original Broadway production of “The Color Purple” and was in town for her September 29 performance at Tavern on Lagrange.
Accompanying Elisabeth was producer and audio engineer Ollie Cotton, who was able to share his experiences of working with Lauryn Hill, Quincy Jones, and many others with our Music Department.
We're grateful that Elisabeth and Ollie were able to visit The Academy and we look forward to seeing them again soon!
