Claudia Schmidt

Claudia Schmidt is one of the Midwest's most popular folk musicians. With her raspy alto vocals and multi-instrumental skills, Schmidt has crafted a unique style from the musical traditions of the past. While much of her repertoire consists of original material, Schmidt has incorporated a diverse range of musical influences. Schmidt's concerts reflect her eclectic approach, as well. At least one critic has observed that Schmidt's shows are "a lot like falling in love-you never know what's going to happen next."



A frequent performer on National Public Radio show, A Prairie Home Companion, Schmidt was exposed to folk music after moving to Chicago, in 1974, to work as a secretary and office manager. Inspired by the Windy City's folk scene, which included Steve Goodman, Jim Post and Bob Gibson, Schmidt taught herself to play Appalachian dulcimer, twelve string guitar and the deluxe pianolin, a 52-string, zither-like, instrument. Within five years, Schmidt had left her day job and sought her fortune as a musician. Schmidt's self-titled debut album, released in 1979, established her as one of the Midwest's best singer-songwriters.

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