Meet Maura Dunst: Americana’s Rising Star

June 29, 2026

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Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Maura Dunst

Maura is a Minnesota-based multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and songwriter whose work moves with ease through bluegrass, Americana, roots, and folk. Known for her expressive fiddle and mandolin playing, strong harmony instincts, and sharp songwriting voice, she brings both fire and feel to every stage she steps onto.

She is best known as a member of The Foxgloves, the Midwestern bluegrass outfit whose high-energy sound and tight musicianship have earned them appearances at respected regional stages and festivals including Blue Ox Music Festival, First Avenue, and Big Top Chautauqua. Within the band, Maura adds fiddle, mandolin, vocals, and songwriting muscle, helping shape the group’s sound with the kind of musical presence that can drive a song forward or deepen it with texture and emotion.

Outside of The Foxgloves, Maura has become a sought-after collaborator across the Midwest roots music scene. She regularly performs with other artists and bands, bringing her fiddle and mandolin work on tour with Maygen & The Birdwatcher, singing backing vocals for Mae Simpson, and performing with Pert Near Sandstone. Her ability to move between lead parts, harmony vocals, instrumental support, and ensemble playing has made her a versatile presence in both live and studio settings.

As a songwriter, Maura has also earned recognition for her original work. Her song “Johnson City” won the Minnesota Music Coalition Demo-rama competition, highlighting her gift for melody, storytelling, and emotional detail. Another original, “Speed Queen,” was selected as Song of the Day by The Current, further establishing her as a writer with a distinct voice and a deep connection to the regional music community.

Whether she is tearing into a fiddle line, locking into a mandolin groove, blending harmonies, or bringing a song of her own to the front of the stage, Maura carries the spirit of a working roots musician: collaborative, road-tested, and grounded in the joy of making music with others. With The Foxgloves and beyond, she continues to build a reputation as a dynamic player, thoughtful songwriter, and vital part of the modern Midwestern Americana and bluegrass scene.