Sarah Quintana

Biography

Sarah Quintana is a singer-songwriter and guitarist deeply rooted in the vibrant musical traditions of New Orleans, Louisiana. Raised in a family that regularly hosted local musicians, she was immersed in the city's rich soundscape from an early age, absorbing influences from New Orleans rhythm & blues, jazz, and folk music. Quintana studied at the New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts and earned a BA from Loyola University New Orleans, further honing her craft and musical sensibilities.

Her career spans over two decades, during which she has released multiple studio albums and performed both nationally and internationally. Quintana's music is characterized by a fusion of Cajun, jazz, and folk elements, often reflecting the unique rhythms and oral traditions of Louisiana. She is known for her angelic voice and fierce guitar work, and her songwriting frequently draws on personal and cultural themes, including resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Quintana has also spent time performing in France, blending her Louisiana roots with European influences.

Beyond her performances, Quintana is an active music educator and vocal coach, dedicated to helping others discover their own musical voices. Her legacy lies in her commitment to preserving and evolving Louisiana's musical heritage, inspiring both audiences and aspiring musicians through her artistry and teaching.

Fun Facts

• Sarah Quintana received a CODOFIL scholarship to study in France, expanding her musical horizons.
• She evacuated after Hurricane Katrina with only her guitar and a Louis Armstrong record on her MP3 player.
• Her album 'Baby Don't' was crafted to reflect Louisiana's musical traditions, with songs tested on Frenchmen Street and at local festivals.
• Quintana is known for blending extra measures and beats into her music, reflecting the nuanced, freeform nature of Louisiana's oral musical traditions.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Deacon John Moore - Family friend and influential figure in New Orleans music, present during Quintana's childhood (Influence on Quintana's early musical exposure) [Childhood]

Key Collaborators

• Cajun elders - Performed and played with local Cajun musicians, learning traditional styles (Live performances and informal sessions) [Throughout career]
• French musicians - Collaborated during club gigs and tours in France (International performances and cross-cultural projects) [2010s–present]

Artists Influenced

• Students and vocal coaching clients - As a music educator and vocal coach, Quintana has mentored aspiring musicians in New Orleans (Music education programs and private coaching) [2010s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. In Green (feat. Sarah Quintana) (Polyvinyl Plays Polyvinyl)
2. tout mon coeur (BABY DON'T)
3. laisse le bon temps rouler (laisse le bon temps rouler)
4. rolling and tumbling (BABY DON'T)
5. With My Baby By My Side (The World Has Changed)
6. bump in the road (BABY DON'T)
7. laisse le bon temps rouler (BABY DON'T)
8. baby, don't (BABY DON'T)
9. miami (BABY DON'T)
10. baby, don't (baby, don't)

External Links

• Spotify