This fall, The Ark invited student songwriters to submit their original music demo in order to compete for a live performance showcase at the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) and a chance to perform at The Ark.

Join us on November 4 for four great performances featuring Olivia Lloyd, Lauren Duski, Antonia Moses and Shelley Turzewski & Andrea Dantus! Performances are from 8-9:40 pm in the Commons Area at UMMA. If you'd like to listen to these artists in advance, check out the "Student Songwriter Series" Facebook page for links to their music.

Olivia Lloyd is a student at UM and a native of Shepherdstown, West Virginia. She grew up listening to her dad's band, who was inspired by the likes of Simon and Garfunkel, the Beatles and the Grateful Dead. At thirteen, she picked up a guitar, and never really put it down.

Lauren Duski is a 3rd year student at UM majoring in Brain and Behavioral Sciences/ Pre-dental studies. She is 20 years old and grew up in the small Northern Michigan town of Gaylord. Lauren recently had the opportunity to record her original songs at a professional studio in Nashville, TN. Her first five songs are available on iTunes.

Antonia Moses is currently a junior at Eastern Michigan University, studying Arts Management with a concentration in music. She's been playing guitar for two years and started songwriting once she picked up the guitar. Antonia released her original song EP titled "Antonia EP" last October.

Shelley Turzewski and Andrea Dantus, are two 18 year olds who love to sing and play guitar together. They came to UM as freshmen this year from their hometown of Okemos, Michigan. Shelley and Andrea have been playing original music together for about four years and have been best friends since 7th grade.

The final performance of this series is on Friday, Dec. 9 from 8-10 pm. It will feature all the performers from the showcases performing in-the-round and will culminate in the announcement of the winner of the series. The winning singer-songwriter will booked for an opening performance at The Ark.

All the events are free of charge. Please join us!

For more information, visit www.theark.org or our Facebook Page: Student Songwriter Series.