Edmar Castañeda Quartet
Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Berlind Theatre
Experience the harp like you’ve never heard it before. Colombian-born Edmar Castañeda is one of the world’s leading jazz harp virtuosos, transforming the harp into a powerhouse of rhythm, melody, and improvisation. With an innovative technique that allows him to create bass lines, harmonies, and melodies simultaneously, Castañeda has redefined the role of the harp in contemporary jazz and global music.
Since arriving in New York in 1994, Castañeda has captivated audiences with a singular sound that blends jazz traditions with Colombian roots and influences from around the world. A Latin GRAMMY nominee, he has collaborated with music legends including Wynton Marsalis, Paquito D’Rivera, Sting, Marcus Miller, Hiromi, and Béla Fleck. He is also a member of BEATrio with Fleck and Antonio Sánchez, whose album earned a GRAMMY nomination for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.
His latest quartet album, Rumba en la Casa, explores themes of family, roots, and connection through a vibrant fusion of Colombian rhythms and contemporary jazz.
His quartet features Andrea Tierra (vocals), New Jersey jazz artist Birsa Chatterjee (tenor saxophone), recipient of the inaugural James Moody Jazz Scholarship for New Jersey, and Julian Miltenberger (drums).
Castañeda returns to McCarter following his spellbinding appearance with BEATrio. Don’t miss an electrifying evening with one of the most original voices in contemporary jazz.
Edmar Castañeda Quartet
Edmar Castañeda — harp
Andrea Tierra — vocals
Birsa Chatterjee — tenor saxophone
Julian Miltenberger — drums
Media Sponsor
“His technique is the real astonishment… Castañeda juggles lead, rhythm and bass lines… His amazing technique raises the bar for every harpist.”
“Castañeda engages modern jazz while honoring cultural origins, and he has the capacity to astonish by virtue of his fingerstyle technique.”
Choose Your Own Subscription
Build your perfect season by selecting three or more performances from across the entire lineup of events.