The North Sea String Quartet is one of the most versatile string quartets of the Netherlands. Their blend of world music, combining their own compositions with improvisation, could be defined as folk-fusion. These are strings that will make you move.
The quartet was established in Rotterdam in 2016 by violinists Karin van Kooten and Pablo Rodriguez, violist Yanna Pelser and cellist Thomas van Geelen. They belong to a new generation of string players who come from the classical music tradition but also share their passion for other styles, such as jazz, folk, latin and flamenco music. These influences are reflected in their own compositions, arrangements and improvisations in a very personal way. An important feature is the use of innovative percussion techniques, creating groovy rhythms that will move the audience in a way a traditional rhythm section would do.
Alternating between composition and improvisation, their works are ever evolving, depending on time and place. This creates a sense of freedom and space for each piece to develop naturally, ensuring every performance is unique and highly engaging to the listener.
The North Sea String Quartet has performed in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Poland and Spain and collaborates with other musicians such as Roland Satterwhite and Rebeca Mora. Recently they recorded their first EP, “The Kitchen Sessions”.