On March 11, 2026, at 19:00, Turkish singer and composer Elif Sanchez will perform for the first time on the stage of VEF Kultūras pils in Riga - a bright representative of the contemporary music scene with an international career, working at the intersection of jazz and ethnic music. The only concert in Latvia will be a special musical event for all lovers of live sound, powerful vocals, and cultural diversity.
Elif Sanchez was born in Istanbul, grew up between Turkey and the USA, and today lives and works in Madrid. Her music organically intertwines Turkish folk motifs, Mediterranean melodies, flamenco, and jazz improvisation, creating a recognizable authorial style. Her emotional, expressive vocals and ability to convey depth in music take the listener from intimate lyricism to rich, rhythmic compositions, turning each concert into an emotional musical journey.
Elif Sanchez's musical education began at the State Conservatory of Istanbul University, where she graduated as an oboist, and continued at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Over the years of her studies and professional career, she has received several international awards, including the International Tour Scholarship, Bill Pierce Award, and Mediterranean Music Institute Award.
The singer has performed at major international festivals and collaborated with world-class musicians, including David Liebman, Terence Blanchard, Antonio Serrano, Tigran Hamasyan, Jacob Collier, Alfredo Rodriguez, Dream Theater, and Aynur Doğan. Her work is valued for its rare combination of academic training, improvisational freedom, and deep respect for musical roots.
Elif Sanchez's discography includes her self-titled debut album released in 2021 and the album Mi Voz (2022), produced by Javier Limón, featuring a duet with Kenan Doğu. In recent years, she has also released several singles in Spanish and Turkish, including original interpretations of classical compositions and original works.
The concert in Riga will be a rare opportunity to hear an artist of this level in an intimate and live atmosphere, where music transcends genres and boundaries.
