Sarah Clanton
Sarah Clanton is a remarkable Nashville-based artist, a trailblazer in her own right, who fearlessly combines classical cello finesse with indie folk-pop ingenuity. A multi-talented singer-songwriter, cellist, and professional mermaid, Sarah’s creative journey is an enchanting story of innovation, artistry, and advocacy.
At the heart of Sarah’s musical odyssey is her deep connection to the cello, an instrument she’s played since the age of nine. Growing up in a conservative Southern Baptist household, and as a classically trained cellist, it wasn’t until she discovered the vibrant open mic scene in Greenville, South Carolina that her world really started to expand in the direction of her dreams.
Sarah’s artistic journey took a transformative turn at Bonnaroo in 2008, where she witnessed Ben Sollee playing the cello in ways she had never imagined. This moment sparked a realization: she could sing and play the cello simultaneously, a concept that would define her unique musical path.
Eager to refine her skills, Sarah attended The Swannanoa Gathering, a folk music and songwriting workshop in North Carolina, where she learned to strum chords on the cello while honing her songwriting craft. Soon after, she embarked on a relentless touring schedule, performing at bars, weddings, and anywhere her music could touch hearts.