About Elise Wunder

Elise Wunder is a Colorado-born singer-songwriter based in Fort Collins, CO. Her voice is one of oak and leather with a comforting and an unmistakably solid foundation. It will take you by surprise when she sets it loose at an unexpected moment and you realize the power that she has been holding back. She’s a cannon and a paintbrush at once.

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Wunder’s style reflects the innate wisdom of an old soul.  Her lyrics leave wide space for personal interpretation but are nonetheless clearly autobiographical. Her song writing (somehow wistful, promising and familiar, yet completely new) is quietly staggering. The most subtle aspect of Elise’s music is the thin line of darkness that runs through the center of it all. There is a lean towards the abyss and dark allies, yet always a returning home with something luminous in hand. The result is a body of work that feels timeless: reflective, wise, and deeply human.

 

Elise has spent more than fifteen years performing throughout the region as both a solo artist and bandleader. Her live performances are known for their emotional presence and powerful vocals, drawing audiences close. She has been an opening act for artists including Grammy nominee Maggie Rose, Liz Cooper, Judah & the Lion, and Michael Kirkpatrick. She performs regionally across Colorado and surrounding states' vibrant live music scene in venues such as the Armory, Washington's, The Aggie, The Mishawaka, Swallow Hill Denver, and Thunder Mountain Ampitheater. Her style might remind you of artists such as Brandi Carlile, Susan Tedeschi, Edith Piaf, and Ella Fitzgerald.

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In 2026, Elise’s multiple album music release season begins with her single “Every Day,” a contemplation of compassion and togetherness amidst an increasingly polarized world.

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In addition to her original music, Elise has portrayed Joni Mitchell in tribute performances and is the band leader of a Nirvana cover band called “Virnana.” She is also a respected voice and songwriting teacher, working with students of all ages while fostering a deep connection between music, creativity, and personal expression. She is also a Death Coach and Sacred Passage Doula Certified through the Conscious Dying Collective in Boulder, CO. 

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In July of 2025, Elise's brother, Erik Wunder (also a musician, of Cobalt and Man's Gin) died at 42. He was a profound influence on her and her music. She attributes these new songs to him, and is doing the hard work it takes to get your music out into the world partly for him. We live on in one another and in music.