Pius X, UNL students win Lied Center songwriting competition

            In tandem with Susan Werner's March 9 performance at the Johnny Carson Theater, the Lied Center for Performing Arts at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln held a songwriting competition for young singer/songwriters in Lincoln.

            The winners are Shannon Kelly of Pius X High School and UNL student Rachel Whelan.

            Kelly is a senior at Pius X, where she is active in theater, show choir and student council. Kelly started writing music two years ago and it has quickly become one her passions. She strives to write music with meaningful lyrics and a universal message and has performed in Pinewood Bowl Productions, NMEA All-State Chorus, and various music and theater productions at school. "I feel incredibly thankful for this opportunity," she said. "I have always loved writing music, and it is very rewarding to know that people appreciate your work and imagination."

            Whelan, originally from Denver, said she has had a life full of regrets, heartbreak and bad haircuts, which she channels into music, while writing for chamber and large ensembles on the side. Whelan has played piano since age 5, and has performed for talent shows, open mic nights and piano recitals across the Front Range in her home state.

            "There is some astounding young creative talent in Nebraska," said Dale Bazan, assistant professor of practice in the UNL School of Music and one of the competition's judges. "The decision to select only one song from each age group as winners was quite challenging. It's with great enthusiasm I look forward to the live debut of the winning songs."

            The two winners will perform their songs as opening acts for Werner at 7:30 p.m. March 9 at the Carson Theater, 11th Street north of Q Street. Tickets are $18, and may be purchased online at www.liedcenter.org, by calling 402-472-4747 or in person at the Lied Center Box Office, 301 N. 12th St.

Writers: Matthew Boring and Jessica Robertson