For upcoming musicians, finding welcoming venues is often a daunting task. Starbucks, however, will be making that challenge easier this month for some gifted young Seattleites.

From 6-7 p.m. each Tuesday in April, Starbucks and the Seattle Theatre Group (STG) will put the spotlight on emerging talent at four Seattle Starbucks® stores. The duo "Sincerely, Soul" kicked off the Up Next series in a University Village Starbucks® store on April 7. Other performances include: Paris Williams on April 14 at the Terry & Republican Starbucks® store; Amanda Hardy on April 21 at the Olive Way Starbucks® store; and Emily Randolph on April 28 at the Madison Park Starbucks® store.

"Young musicians need a place to play," said Erin Combs, manager of Starbucks Community Partnerships. "These artists are crazy talented. We came together with STG and said, 'Let's find a way to showcase them.'"

A Community Connection

Sarah Loritz, Community Programs Manager for STG and producer of its More Music @ the Moore youth-music program, agreed there's a strong bond between the two organizations regarding the Northwest music scene regarding the Northwest music scene.

"We've had a great partnership with Starbucks for many years and they have always loved our programs," she said. "Seattle is a songwriting town. We just wanted to give them an opportunity to play their material out in the community."

The four featured acts were chosen in part because they fit the vibe of evening-hour Starbucks Evenings locations, where customers can gather, relax and connect with each other over Starbucks expanded menu of shareable, warm and savory small plates and delectable desserts that are expertly paired with our coffee, tea and hand selected beer and wines.

"All of these musicians are extremely eager, open and willing to put their music out there and explore ways that they can be involved in the community," Loritz added. "They've had a great working relationship with STG and have learned a lot from our programs. They are very excited about this opportunity to possibly find a new audience and a new setting where they can try out this music."

Three of the four Up Next artists have appeared at past More Music @ the Moore presentations. The fourth, Paris Williams, will appear at this year's 14th annual event May 8 at Seattle's Moore Theatre. Sheila E., internationally renowned percussion artist, will serve as music director for the program.

STG is a non-profit arts organization committed to community education programs that provide opportunities for young people to grow their artistic talents. Starbucks is a long-time supporter of STG and the presenting sponsor of its community programs, including More Music @ the Moore.

For more information on this news release, contact the Starbucks Newsroom.

distributed by