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Claudia Schmidt is one of the Midwest's most popular folk and jazz musicians. With her raspy alto vocals and multi-instrumental skills, Schmidt has crafted a unique style from the musical traditions of the past. While much of her repertoire consists of original material, Schmidt has incorporated a diverse range of musical influences. Schmidt's concerts reflect her eclectic approach as well. At least one critic has observed that Schmidt's shows are "a lot like falling in love -- you never know what's going to happen next." A frequent performer on National Public Radio's A Prairie Home Companion, Schmidt was exposed to folk music after moving to Chicago in 1974 to work as a secretary and office manager. Inspired by the Windy City's folk scene, which included Steve Goodman, Jim Post, and Bob Gibson, Schmidt taught herself to play Appalachian dulcimer, 12-string guitar, and the deluxe pianolin, a 52-string, zither-like instrument. Within five years, Schmidt had left her day job and sough...