Words and Music: American songwriters
featured in Chicago radio broadcast
press release by Denise Kowalski, WFMT

CHICAGO—The American popular song as it existed throughout the 20th century has been a mirror for the cultural character, national mood, and unique anxieties of the times. Through economic boom and bust, war, and moral upheaval, the best of our songwriters found a way to reflect the average individual’s concerts and the emotions of daily life.

Margaret Carlson
This Christmas—My Favorite Things

Margaret is a fine young vocalist who took some time off to launch her family and is now pursuing her career in Chicago.

Deanna Witkowski: Wide Open Window

While in Chicago pianist Deanna Witkowski attended Wheaton College, played good gigs around town, expanded her horizons by traveling and studying, and worked hard apparently all the time. A few years ago she relocated to New York and worked as music director at All Angel’s Episcopal Church. Then her continuous hard work also led to first place in the 2002 Great American Jazz Piano Competition.

Gephart Long Quartet: Corners

This CD, like their previous "Water Logic," is a stand out recording of a wonderful quartet. Everything comes together here, solid modern playing, original thoughts and flawless performance. This quartet also presents something that jazz has lost, they are a long-standing working group. Music of this dimension can only occur when the musicians share the same mind set and play together often.