Reviews and Testimonials

 Every time I see Aaron perform, I’m further blown away. Not only is his technical command of stringed things stellar, his tasty take on any session I’ve heard him is sublime. Whether stepping up to dance atop a number, or sitting back to add subtle color to a jam, his sense of where to be in the moment, is always about the music. He is definitely, a musicians musician.  

-Jack Hunger, Manager of the Gasoline Gypsies

 I've been booking Aaron for many, many years, and he's one of the most talented guitarists/mandolin players/vocalists/songwriters that we've had come through River's Edge, and his projects are always exceptional and exciting.  Plus, he's a hell of a nice guy.  Just when you think 'Damn, this guy can really play guitar/mandolin', he starts singing, and it just gets better - and the vocal harmonizing, whether in Wilson Thicket, Frank & Cora, etc - will make your jaw drop. 

-Ryan Wiltse, Founder/Operations Manager, River's Edge Brewing Co.

 While I've gotten to know Aaron Markovitz more closely in the Post-COVID era, he has been a fixture orbiting my musical universe for many years.   What can I say about his musical gift (it's far more than just talent) that others have not said before?  He writes songs with a lover's heart and a poet's soul?  That he can play notes so fast they blend into a spectrum of musical color, and then strike a single note and let it grow into an entire symphony of it's own?  That his musical phrasing is equally about the notes he plays as about those he chooses not to play?  Maybe it's about the poignancy and truth of his lyrics?  

Perhaps it is easier to talk about the one thing that truly sets Aaron apart--his humanity.  I always write about "the People, the Places and the Music...in that order!" and no one exemplifies that ethos more than he.   Aaron is always quick with a hello or a nod of the head when he sees you at a show.  He greets you with a warm smile and that twinkle in his eye that says he's truly glad to see you.  He goes out of his way to show up at other musician's events and support their efforts.  He makes friends easily...and when those friends are fellow musicians, magic happens.  And best of all, he sets a great example for how we should all live out lives, treating everyone he comes across with the dignity and respect they rightly deserve.  I am truly honored to know Aaron, and treasure the fact I can call him "friend".  

-John Bayerl, SEMi Bluegrass LLC

 There are players' players and writers' writers. Aaron is both of those things. I am equally awed every time I listen to him play mandolin or guitar or deliver one of his beautifully-delivered songs. Shamefully, I find myself envious of the amazing melodies he creates, or his rich vocal expression, or the "snap" he always adds with his accompaniment. His songs are so eloquently delivered with his ability to turn an artful phrase that it's impossible not to be drawn in. I am a true fan!  

But that's all the musical stuff, not that it's unimportant! Aaron is much more than just a great musician or songwriter. He is a kind and humble soul that I am eternally grateful for having become acquainted. He is a gentleman and never has a harsh word for others. A happy-go-lucky fellow that you can't help but love. I am truly proud to call him my friend! 

-Bill Arnold, One Ton Trolley

 When you first meet Aaron, you are taken by his kind nature. As you get to know him, you find there is a wellspring of compassion that lies beneath it. His calm demeanor belies his poetic, sensitive, and deeply artistic soul. And speaking of art, Aaron’s musical artistry is as worldly as it is soulful. He shares his gifts for song and lyric openly and generously. I am inspired by Aaron and enjoy seeing how his divine spark inspires others. I am thrilled to have him in my life, and look forward to sharing in his journey. 

-Neil Michaels

 If I need a strong lead vocal or a sophisticated harmony/BGV Aaron Markovitz is my first thought.  If I need a creative and immaculately played guitar or mandolin part, again, it's Aaron. Same for tasteful electric guitar. When I just want a great hang I'll call him for lunch.      For any music live or recorded, you can't do better... 

-Jim Rawlings, Audio/Recording Engineer and Producer

 Working with Aaron is a true pleasure. His talent is unmatched and his humble, helpful nature makes him a favorite of our entire team and audiences.  I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with Aaron and look forward to every time I have the opportunity to listen to him play.  From the joys of hearing him sing and play, to the honor of hosting him for shows at our venue, Aaron Markovitz is simply the best.  

-Brandon Still, Wiltsie's

 Just when you think Aaron is only an expert fingerstyle guitar player, you hear him sing with a  powerful control and earnestness that seems effortless and commands attention. Just when you think he's only a great bluegrass guitar flatpicker, he writes a song that captivates everyone within earshot. Just when you think that's too much talent for one guy to have, he'll do it all on mandolin and electric guitar with every bit of the soulfulness. Just when you think he's just a pretty face, it turns out he's a pretty nice guy as well. Aaron is a Michigan musical treasure! 5 stars, 10/10, would recommend to friends! 

-Keith Billik, Banjo Extraordinaire