GALLERY + REVIEW: Emma Harner - Chicago, IL (9/12/26)

Sep 16

Emma Harner
Schubas Tavern - Chicago, IL - September 12th, 2026
Photos & words by Nive Pai (@nivethroughthelookingglass)

Emma Harner took the stage at Chicago's Schubas Tavern on Saturday, September 12th. The crowd followed along to every phrase, entranced by her captivating melodies. She performed songs from her debut album, Evening Star, released this past April, including "Woman of the Hour," "The Axe," and a fan favorite, "Gale".

With her family supporting her in the crowd, Harner's performance of "Jackie," written about her mother, took on special meaning and drew a few tears in the crowd. She also gave the audience a sneak peek into what's next, performing an untitled new piece.

The crowd held up fan-created paper stars for the performance of the album's title-track, "Evening Star". Harner rounded off her set with an impromptu performance of "Bricks and Wedges," indulging a request shouted from the back of the crowd.

Harner passionately specified her guitar tuning for every song of the set, delighting the many fellow guitar enthusiasts in the audience. Her classical guitar training was reflected in her intricate playing, precise and resonant. Her strong guitar technique, unconventional melodic decisions, and poignant lyricism melded into an exquisite balance, refreshingly unique. Spirits were high, and everyone left the show moved by Harner's talent.