Pleiades is a monthly series that features femme, trans, and nonbinary musicians and improvisors.  The series has a two-fold mission: to increase the visibility of phenomenal femme/trans/non-binary musicians and to build community and connection between femme/trans/non-binary improvisors from diverse backgrounds.  

Each show opens with curated performances by renown artists which reflect the wide range of Chicago’s thriving creative music scene.  Their projects pull from diverse traditions such as contemporary classical, free jazz, metal, hiphop, performance art and noise music.   

The second half of each show is dedicated to a free improvisation jam that includes both the headline performers and any other femme, trans, or non-binary musicians who wish to play.  Improvisors of all experience levels are welcome to participate.  Those who wish to play are encouraged to get in touch ahead of time as the size of the jam may be limited.  Although the Pleiades series highlights a particular segmnt fo our community, EVERYONE is more than welcome to attend, hang and support!!

The Pleiades series is curated by Emily Rach Beisel and she is deeply grateful to her musical sisters, including Erica Miller and Molly Jones, for their input and support.      

For more details or to join the jam please email pleiades@elasticarts.org

Check out the Pleiades Series Instagram Page for show updates!

Bussy Kween Power Trip - July 24, 2022

gabby fluke-mogul - August 21, 2022

Olula Negre / Cristal Sabbagh - May 24, 2022

Macie Stewart / Patrick Shiroishi - October 28, 2022