About

Electric 5 is a powerhouse all-female electric string quintet based in Chicago, redefining what classical crossover can sound like. With two cellos, three violins, and zero backing tracks, the group delivers high-octane rock and pop covers using nothing but their virtuosic playing and electrified strings. The quintet was born from a simple request: a client wanted something unique for his wedding. Dissatisfied with stock arrangements, founding member Adia and her writing partner Dusan began crafting intricate original charts from scratch, kickstarting a creative chain reaction that would evolve the group from a traditional quartet into the hard-hitting, genre-defying Electric 5.

What sets Electric 5 apart is their complete dedication to live performance. While most acts in the classical crossover genre rely on backing tracks to fill out their sound, Electric 5’s arrangements are fully performed in real time. That means every harmony, rhythm line, and lead melody is carried by a live player. It’s a challenge that demands the highest level of musicianship—and one they gladly embrace. Their signature five-piece format allows them to build rich, multi-dimensional textures with just strings, from thundering low-end cello grooves to soaring violin solos, and even layered vocals on select songs.

At the heart of the group’s sound is violinist, composer, and lead soloist Adia, whose wah-wah pedal solos and guitar-inspired phrasing have earned her accolades, including the Judge’s Selection in the Experience Hendrix Tour and Steve Vai’s Best in Shred competition. Her blend of rock energy and classical precision defines Electric 5’s fearless approach. Whether it’s Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” or Gnarls Barkley’s “Crazy,” every cover is reimagined with originality, intensity, and precision.

Each member of Electric 5 brings an impressive background to the table. Cellist Kelsee Vandervall has recorded with artists like Eminem, Lizzo, and John Legend and currently tours with Moulin Rouge! The Musical. Violinist Zai K. has performed in over 30 countries and graced global stages, including the Paris Philharmonic and the NATO Summit. Violinist Carlysta Tran is a standout talent with multiple orchestral leadership roles and a rigorous academic pedigree. Venezuelan-born cellist Ana Lei, currently touring with the Zac Brown Band, completes the ensemble with rhythmic firepower and deep tone. These classically trained musicians have gone beyond their formal education to master the nuance and aggression needed to play rock with authenticity.

Electric 5’s mission is to inspire a new generation of string players while challenging perceptions of what string music can be. Their upcoming release, a fiery rendition of “Enter Sandman,” captures the essence of who they are—bold, technical, and unapologetically electric. With each performance, Electric 5 proves that strings can shred and that classical chops, when paired with fearless creativity, can light up a stage just like any rock band.