Chicago Jazz

Jack Macklin

Guitarist • Composer • Educator

A rising star in the modern jazz scene, blending tradition with forward-thinking improvisation. Currently performing with the Jack Macklin Trio across Chicago and the Midwest.

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The Jack Macklin Trio

"A bright light in the growing community of improvised music" — uniquely navigating through popular songs from the 1950s to present, alongside original compositions.

Jack Macklin

Guitar

Parker Kaplan

Double Bass

Ryan Brasley

Drums

Listen to "One" EP

Available on all streaming platforms

A Young Lion of Chicago Jazz

Jack Macklin's love for the guitar began at age 8, sparked by learning his first song — "Crazy Train" by Ozzy Osbourne. That initial spark ignited a lifelong pursuit to explore and discover the impact of music on humanity.

A graduate of DePaul University's jazz studies program, Jack studied closely with Chicago's finest musicians including Scott Hesse and Dana Hall, diving deep into improvisation and the rich lineage of the guitar.

At just 25, Jack has already performed with some of jazz's most notable figures and continues to push the boundaries of what a genre can be — blending tradition with forward-thinking innovation.

Read full biography
25 Years Old Rising star in jazz
17+ Years Playing Started at age 8
DePaul University B.A. in Music

Performed With

Matt UleryGreg WardJoel FrahmDonny McCaslinDave DouglasMarcus FinnieDon AliquoBruce ForemanMatt UleryGreg WardJoel FrahmDonny McCaslinDave DouglasMarcus FinnieDon AliquoBruce Foreman

Upcoming Shows

Recurring

Arcada Theatre - Legends Stage

Live Jazz Sessions

St. Charles, IL

Recurring

Fulton Street Collective

Jazz Nights

Chicago, IL

Let's Cool One

Dive deep into the Chicago jazz scene and beyond. Through interviews with acclaimed musicians, Jack sheds light on the people growing and fostering the jazz community.

Part of the Alithio Network
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LCO

Let's Make Music Together

Available for performances, collaborations, private events, and teaching. Based in Chicago, performing throughout the Midwest and beyond.