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Mary Halvorson

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description Mary Halvorson Overview

Mary Halvorson is an American guitarist, composer, and bandleader associated with contemporary jazz, improvisation, and experimental music. Her playing is recognizable for angular melodic lines, unusual interval choices, rhythmic displacement, and the selective use of electronic pitch effects, while her compositions often combine written structures with open improvisation. She has led ensembles of several sizes, collaborated across jazz and avant-garde music, and received a MacArthur Fellowship in 2019.

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Did Mary Halvorson win a MacArthur Fellowship?

Yes, guitarist and composer Mary Halvorson was named a MacArthur Fellow in 2019, sometimes called the 'genius grant.' She was the first female jazz guitarist to receive the award. The fellowship provides a $625,000 no-strings-attached stipend over five years.

What bands is Mary Halvorson in?

Mary Halvorson leads her own groups including a long-running quintet/sextet, an octet, and the ensemble Code Girl (with vocalist Amirtha Kidambi and guitarist Ava Mendoza). She has also been a member of Anthony Braxton's ensembles, Trevor Dunn's Trio-Convulsant, and has recorded with Tom Rainey, Tim Berne, and many others. Her discography includes dozens of sideman dates.

What label does Mary Halvorson record for?

Halvorson's primary label as a leader has been Firehouse 12 Records and Nonesuch Records, where her albums 'Cloudward' (2024) and 'Amaryllis' (2022) appeared. Earlier leader dates came out on Firehouse 12. She has also recorded for Clean Feed and other independent jazz labels.

What guitar and effects does Mary Halvorson use?

Halvorson plays a Gibson L-5 archtop guitar and is known for using a Monteleau custom guitar and a Fender Jaguar as well. Her distinctive sound relies heavily on a Roland Space Echo, wah pedal, and octave pedal. Her bent-note phrasing and intervallic lines are signatures of her style.