Macie Stewart

Macie Stewart is a pivotal figure in the contemporary Chicago creative music scene, bridging the gap between indie folk, avant-garde jazz, and modern classical. A classically trained multi-instrumentalist, she first gained prominence as one half of the art-pop duo OHMME.

Her solo work, beginning with 2021's 'Mouth Full of Glass', represents a shift toward a more intimate, internal sound. Her identity is defined by her virtuosic use of the violin, not just as an accompaniment but as a primary melodic and textural engine. Critically, she is noted for her ability to maintain a 'folk' accessibility while employing complex harmonic structures and improvisational techniques. Her career arc shows a steady progression from the collaborative energy of the Chicago rock scene toward a highly personal, chamber-oriented aesthetic. She is a frequent collaborator with experimental luminaries, placing her at the center of a web that connects traditional songwriting with the city's rich history of free improvisation and jazz.