Marshfield Now! Spotlights Local Audio Engineer and New Open Mic Series at the Chestnut Center

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
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MARSHFIELD, WI – This week’s Marshfield Now! featured a conversation with local audio engineer and musician Ryan Summers, who shared both his personal journey into music production and details about a new community event series launching at the Chestnut Center for the Arts.


Summers, founder of Studio 811, described his passion for recording and producing music—a hobby that began when he was 19 and developed into a skillset working with musicians in Wisconsin and the Twin Cities. Over the years, he has built a small recording studio, mastering both digital and analog techniques. His work now ranges from helping independent artists refine their demos to preparing tracks for digital release, CDs, and even vinyl.

“Music production is both an art and a science,” Summers explained. “Every project brings new challenges—whether it’s shaping sound for radio play or mastering a track for vinyl. It’s about capturing the emotion of the music while respecting the technical side.”

A Revival of Open Mic Nights
Beyond his studio work, Summers is channeling his energy into building community connections through performance. He recently launched the Second Thursday Open Mic at the Chestnut Center for the Arts. Held in the upstairs chapel space at 7 p.m. each second Thursday of the month, the open mic invites musicians, poets, comedians, storytellers, and other performers to share their craft.

Summers said the idea draws inspiration from similar open mic nights hosted over a decade ago in Marshfield, which played a key role in reigniting his own involvement in music.

“This is about creating a local support system,” he said. “In today’s world of TikToks and YouTube clips, there’s something special about connecting with an audience in person. It’s a chance for performers to grow, share, and build friendships in the community.”

The open mic series is scheduled to run monthly through May 2026, with the potential to continue beyond if participation remains strong. Admission is free, and performers of all backgrounds are welcome.

Building Community Through the Arts
Summers emphasized that the event isn’t just for musicians—past participants have included poets and visual artists, and future evenings may feature theater performers or collaborative groups.

“The Chestnut Center has been incredibly supportive,” he noted. “It’s a beautiful space for creativity, and I’m grateful we have it right here in Marshfield.”
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For more information or to sign up, attendees can connect with Summers through the QR codes featured on event posters around town.

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