Biography
The Electric Yat Quartet is a dynamic string quartet founded in 2020 and based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Comprised of classically trained musicians—Harry Hardin (violin), Natalia Cascante (violin), Amelia Clingman (viola), and Jack Craft (cello)—the group brings an eclectic approach to the traditional string quartet format. Their repertoire spans classical masterpieces, jazz standards, Argentine tangos, and contemporary pop hits, reflecting both their technical mastery and adventurous spirit. The ensemble's name, a playful nod to New Orleans vernacular, signals their intent to blend fun with serious musicianship, and to challenge expectations about what a string quartet can be.
Since their formation, the Electric Yat Quartet has become a fixture in the New Orleans music scene, performing at a wide range of venues from the French Quarter Festival to the Saenger Theatre, and collaborating with notable local artists. Their performances are characterized by versatility, often alternating between acoustic and electrified sets, and frequently featuring guest musicians such as pianist André Bohren. The group is committed to community engagement, regularly playing in schools and at public events, and has garnered a reputation for making classical music accessible and exciting to diverse audiences. Their energetic style and genre-blending approach have helped redefine the role of the string quartet in contemporary music culture.
Fun Facts
- Despite their name, not all of their performances are electrified; they also play acoustic sets.
- The group was formed during the COVID-19 pandemic and quickly found success and high demand in the New Orleans area.
- Their name, 'Electric Yat Quartet,' is a playful reference to New Orleans slang ('Yat') and was chosen to be both fun and memorable.
- They have performed at major New Orleans venues and festivals, including opening for the Avett Brothers and appearing at the French Quarter Festival.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Classical tradition (Bach, Beethoven, Brahms) - Foundational influences from classical repertoire and training (Classical canon performed in concerts) [Ongoing]
Key Collaborators
- André Bohren - Frequent guest pianist for live performances, including French Quarter Festival and special concerts (Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue', festival sets) [2022–present]
- Avett Brothers (with Anders Osborne and Dave Malone) - Shared billing/opening act at Saenger Theatre (Live performance)
- Jacob Fowler - Cellist substitute for Jack Craft at select performances (French Quarter Festival 2023)
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Stringin' with Some BBQ | 2023-12-03 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Struttin' with Some Bbq (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- Tico Tico (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- Buona Sera (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- Lullaby of Birdland (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- I Got Rhythm (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- Someone to Watch over Me (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- That's a Plenty (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- Basin Street Blues (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- Blue Rondo a La Turk (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
- April in Paris (Stringin' with Some BBQ)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Electric Yat Quartet has been played 19 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.