SAE Institute Chicago recently turned up the energy with the SAE Summer Showdown event, bringing together students, artists, producers, DJs, and music industry creatives for an afternoon celebrating Chicago’s vibrant music scene.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees experienced live performances, a student producer competition, artist showcases, industry conversations, giveaways, networking opportunities, and more, all taking place at the Chicago campus.
The SAE Summer Showdown featured performances from two of Chicago’s rising artists, El Hitta and Ashlee Bankz, who brought their unique sounds and high-energy performances to the stage.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the Beat Showdown, where the campus’s student producers battled for the top spot.
The competition gave students a chance to put their production skills to the test and have their work heard in front of fellow creatives and industry talent. It was a showcase of the creativity and technical skills students are developing through their hands-on experiences at SAE.
The event also featured the Artist Showdown, giving artists the opportunity to perform and showcase their talent. Together, the two competitions created an environment where producers and artists could connect, collaborate, and celebrate one another’s work.
Beyond the performances and competitions, the SAE Summer Showdown offered plenty of opportunities for attendees to connect with people working across the music industry.
A Q&A with local industry talent gave attendees the chance to gain insight and perspective from professionals in the field, while networking opportunities allowed students and other creatives to make new connections.
Special guest DJ SOH-JU kept the energy going throughout the event, providing the soundtrack and vibes for an afternoon dedicated to music and creativity.
Attendees could also explore SAE Institute Chicago’s studios through campus tours, giving guests a closer look at the facilities and spaces where students develop their skills. A photo booth, swag giveaways, and other activities added to the experience.
The SAE Summer Showdown was more than just an afternoon of performances. It was an opportunity for students and creatives to put their talents on display, learn from industry professionals, make connections, and experience the energy of Chicago’s music scene. By bringing established and emerging talent together under one roof, SAE Institute Chicago continues to create opportunities for students to connect their classroom experiences with the broader music industry.
For more information about SAE Institute Chicago, visit us online at usa.sae.edu.
