About Wendy Lynn Markus (aka Wend O’Lynn)

Wendy Lynn Markus is a dynamic electric violinist from Madison, Wisconsin, known for her energetic performances that blend Irish traditional music, folk melodies, and reimagined modern pop songs. Performing entirely instrumentally on a 7-string Viper electric violin with custom high-quality backing tracks, Wendy brings the violin to life with a unique mix of tradition and innovation.

A lifelong musician, Wendy started on piano, drums, and violin at a young age, later gaining extensive stage experience as a member of the award-winning Madison rock band Sunspot since 1996. She has also collaborated with a variety of artists, including Les Smith and Fresh Horses (Garth Brooks tribute), Made In America (Toby Keith tribute), Penelope’s Thrill, Michael Alexander and Big Whiskey, The Ramble, Rip, Tantric, and Bob Hoot / Tent Show Troubadours.

Her deep dive into Irish traditional music began unexpectedly in 2018 when she stumbled upon a pub session in Chicago. Instantly captivated by the driving rhythms and infectious melodies, she immersed herself in the genre, attending sessions, memorizing hundreds of tunes, and studying through the Online Academy of Irish Music. When the pandemic halted in-person gatherings, Wendy found creative ways to continue her musical journey, participating in virtual tune challenges and international collaborations (see if you can spot her in any of the Online Academy of Irish Music videos!).

Post-pandemic, Wendy returned to live performances, captivating audiences at pub sessions, private events, festivals, farmers markets, and beer gardens across Wisconsin. Her engaging, high-energy shows blend the spirit of traditional Irish music with inventive, electrified arrangements of pop and folk tunes.

Whether performing a haunting Irish reel or a thrilling rock-inspired violin solo, Wendy’s passion for music is undeniable. Her vibrant stage presence, skillful playing, and creative interpretations leave audiences entertained, inspired, and eager for more.