Steve Rashid has dedicated his life to creativity, embodying the sentiment that the more you create, the more creativity you possess. Despite his decades-long presence in the local music and theater scene, Rashid has maintained a humble approach, preferring to let his work speak for itself. However, he recently reached out to share details about an upcoming event that showcases his unwavering commitment to the arts.
Rashid’s latest offering is a six-song EP titled “is it beautiful there?” released last year. While he did not host an album release concert for the project, he is excited to present a live performance featuring all-new music, including previously recorded and in-progress tracks. The concert will take place in early May at Studio5, the Evanston venue Rashid co-founded with his wife Béa, a renowned choreographer, dance educator, and theatrical director.
Studio5 has established itself as one of the area’s premier performance spaces, seamlessly blending the ambiance of a concert hall with the intimacy of a jazz club. As Howard Reich, Rashid’s former Tribune colleague, aptly describes, the venue fosters an atmosphere that encourages attentive listening while maintaining a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
Rashid’s journey began in Wisconsin, where he attended Ripon College before pursuing further studies at Northwestern University. After graduating, he embarked on a multifaceted career as a producer, recording engineer, composer, performer, radio host, and co-owner of Studio5.
Among Rashid’s long-time collaborators is Dennis Barrosse, an alumnus of Northwestern University and a founding member of the acclaimed Practical Theater Company alongside Julia Louis Dreyfus and Brad Hall. Barrosse highlights Rashid’s invaluable contributions to the theater company, particularly his musical direction and comedic talent.
Fellow collaborator David Zielinski emphasizes Rashid’s exceptional juggling abilities, effortlessly managing multiple projects, including Studio5’s programming and operations. Zielinski commends Rashid’s commitment to fostering a vibrant jazz community on the North Shore.
Rashid’s upcoming concert promises to be a family affair, with his wife choreographing a piece and their son Daniel creating a video projection for another. Their other son, Robert, will perform as the drummer/percussionist, ensuring a truly special and intimate evening of music and creativity.
Rashid’s passion for the arts extends beyond his own work. He serves as the musical director for the Community Church and produces weekly radio broadcasts on WDCB. His dedication to music education is evident in his ongoing collaboration with the Evanston Dance Ensemble, for which he composes music.
