The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and the Chicago Music Commission present the Musicians At Work Forum "Healthy Musicians - Oxymoron No More!" on Monday, November 19, 6 - 7:30 pm at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. Moderated by Dave Hinkamp (UIC Health in the Arts Program), the panel includes Chris Lyons (Shure Microphones), audiologist Michael Santucci (Sensaphonics), Laura Kessler (vocal coach and Carpel Tunnel expert), and Alex Maiolo (Future Of Music Coalition).

There is increasing recognition that work in the arts can involve health risks such as exposures to toxic materials and hazardous physical conditions. Injuries and repetitive motion disorders can also result from practice and from work in the arts. Musicians specifically face many health hazards – from hearing loss and vocal cord injury to the stresses of travel and health care. This forum focuses on preventing some of the most common and disabling problems for musicians.

This exciting discussion and networking opportunity is part ofMusicians At Work Forums, which invite leading industry professionals to address cutting-edge issues of interest and concern for people in all segments of the music business. All events are open to the public, and admission is free. Call 312.744.6630 or visit www.chicagoculturalcenter.org or www.chicago-music.org for more information. Musicians At Work Forums are sponsored by Columbia College Chicago, Chicago Federation of Musicians, and Harold Washington College.

More about the panelists

David Hinkamp, MD, MPH, is the Co-Director of the Health in the Arts Program at UIC, whose mission is to diagnose, treat and prevent arts-related disorders among people working in all aspects of the arts. He is also board certified in Occupational Medicine and Preventive Medicine and is on the faculty of the School of Public Health. Dr. Hinkamp established the Chicago Blues Coalition's health program and has been the Chair of the Arts-Medicine Section of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine since 1991.

Chris Lyons is the Product Marketing Manager at Shure Microphones, a global leader in audio electronics. Lyons will discuss in-ear monitor options.

Michael Santucci is the President of Sensaphonics, whose mission is to help preserve musicians’ hearing with superior products and intelligent advice.

Laura Kessler is a creative career coach, music director, teacher, writer and performer based in Chicago. She performs and works regularly in Chicago and New York, and offers private lessons and group instruction combining the performing arts, business and education. Laura also publishes a free Entertainment Career e-Newsletter and is available for workshops, lectures, art residencies and performances.

Alex Maiolo is the HINT Project coordinator for the Future of Music Coalition, a not-for-profit collaboration between members of the music, technology, public policy and intellectual property law communities. The FMC seeks to educate the media, policymakers, and the public about music and technology issues, while also bringing together diverse voices in an effort to come up with creative solutions. The goal of the Health Insurance Navigation Tool (HINT) project is to provide informed, musician-friendly support and advice to curious musicians. Maiolo is also a licensed insurance agent, National Health Advocate, and active musician.