New York-based nonprofit Women in Music will launch its Chicago chapter with an inaugural mixer on Wednesday, May 10.
Welcoming men as well as women, the networking event will take place at 2112 Inc., the music and film collective located within the 160,000 square-foot creative incubator Fort Knox Studios.
2112 is also providing the night’s complimentary beverages.
Since 1985, Women in Music has been a on a mission to help women in music. According to committee member Melissa Thornley, the organization offers professionals and aspiring aficionados an opportunity “to meet people and learn stuff” in and about the industry. Its arrival in the Windy City, she says, is long overdue.
“Chicago, I don’t think, is considered a major music industry, but between the venues, the labels and the people who are actually in the business itself, there’s a lot going on,” she continues. “There’s blues, jazz and indie, and were the first place in house music. Come on!”
Thornley is an independent consultant who frequently works with Pravda Records, a Chicago label that was founded in 1984. She lends a hand in marketing, management, promotion and whatever else it takes to thrive as one of the oldest music businesses in the city. Other committee members include Melissa Chapman-Owner of Groove Garden, Jessie LaBelle, Senior Creative Director at Riptide Music and Lisa Macy, VP of Film and TV at Spirit Music Group.
Besides helping to organize events for Women in Music’s Chicago chapter, she intends to work with the rest of the Chicago and NY board members arranging educational opportunities as the organization grows.
“The music industry can be complicated when you get to the business side of it,” she explains. “There’s a diverse group of wants and needs. You’ve got artists who want to connect with labels and fans and people who will publish their music and people in film and broadcast who will use their music. And they’re also looking for the next Smashing Pumpkins.”
The event so far has attracted more than 100 guests. To RSVP and learn more, click here.
