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Heartstrings Duo performs varied and energetic reimagining of songs from the Great American Songbook and beyond, with a focus on the works of often-overlooked female composers.
In partnership with the Libertyville Senior Center.
When jazz Vocalist Christy Bennett and guitarist Casey Nielsen join forces, the resulting music is a varied and energetic reimagining of songs from the great American songbook and beyond- particularly the works of women. During the golden era of American jazz and Broadway, composers and lyricists like Irene Higgenbotham, Irene Kitchings, and Kay Swift wrote some of our most memorable hits but their names and wider musical contributions have been ignored.
Christy’s research into the compositions of forgotten female composers of the American Songbook adds a fresh new addition to their standard jazz repertoire. For example, their name, “Heartstrings,” is the title of a beautiful song by composer Maria Greaver. Greaver is well regarded in her native Mexico but still little recognized in America despite the success and respect she earned from her contemporary musicians and composers during her lifetime like Frank Sinatra and Cole Porter.
Guitarist Casey Nielsen’s long career accompanying jazz vocalists in Chicago and his study of classical guitar lends a rich texture to their arrangements. Even with a small footprint, Heartstrings Duo wraps their audiences in energy and elegance wherever they perform.