"Authentic Silence" by Caia Lucas, vocals • Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards 2024

"I wrote this song about a time in my life when I was really struggling and it's so special to me, so I'm so glad that I can share it with you all." Caia Lucas • El Calderon, violin • Amy Conley, piano From an early age, Caia Lucas hasvcrafted songs that captivate audiences. She wrote and performed her first song at six and spent elementary school improvising musical numbers. Despite facing challenges in middle school, Caia rediscovered her spark at Friends Meeting School, where she channels her experiences into heartfelt songwriting. With a background in theater, Caia shines on stage, with notable performances including roles in "Into the Woods," "Shrek Jr." and "Mean Girls Jr." Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards honor the best songwriters in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. The contest awards one songwriter a grand prize of $10,000, 25 hours of recording studio time, and two hours of music business strategy consulting. Cash prizes of $2,500 are awarded to the second-place winner, and $1,000 to all other finalists. A young songwriter under 18 is also honored with an award of $2,500, and all other youth finalists receive $500. All finalists receive features on Strathmore's digital platforms.The competition, founded by Cathy Bernard, is named in honor of her uncle Fred Ebb, a great American songwriter and creator of Broadway hits such as "Cabaret" and "Chicago," as well as iconic songs including "New York, New York." A panel of three esteemed judges, distinguished musicians from across the industry provide feedback following each performance and announce the winners live. https://www.strathmore.org/songwriting Strathmore is the DMV area's multi-disciplinary arts center, presenting concerts, exhibitions, educational & community events. Located in North Bethesda, Maryland and serving the entire Washington, DC area, Strathmore spotlights world-class talent and serves as a launch pad for local artists. Each year, it presents hundreds of accessible events on its 16-acre campus in the Music Center and Mansion, and throughout the Montgomery County, MD community. Here, art is everywhere! https://www.strathmore.org   / strathmorearts     / strathmore     / strathmorearts     / strathmore-hall-foundation-inc.   #StrathmorePresents