Ensemble Ibérica’s 2026 Concert Series unfolds as its most expansive season to date, weaving bold collaborations with global musical traditions. From the soulful cry of Galician gaita with Adam Phillips and the lyrical convergence of classical, jazz, and Latin American influences with Carolina Calvache, to the powerful, border-spanning sound of Mireya Ramos, each program invites deep listening and discovery. The season also journeys through the rhythmic intensity of Algerian chaâbi with Khaled Abdelli, the haunting lyricism of Romanian doina with Ana Everling, the refined elegance of the Portuguese guitar through the legacy of master Carlos Paredes, and the sweeping passion of contemporary tango by Adam Tulley—together creating a year defined by connection, culture, and creative exchange.
Saturday, April 18th 2026, 7- 9pm CST
Step into the lush hills and coastal breezes of Galicia with Adam Phillips and Ensemble Ibérica. Adam—Founder and Music Director of Folk Orchestra Santa Barbara and Director of Music at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Goleta—is a versatile multi-instrumentalist skilled in Irish whistles, mandolin, Scottish smallpipes, border pipes, Galician gaita, and more. A classically trained vocalist with over 15 years of solo performance experience, he brings both precision and expressive power to the stage. Joined by a vibrant ensemble of strings and percussion, Adam guides audiences into the heart of Galicia’s musical world, where the soulful cry of the gaita, the pulse of ancient dance rhythms, and the lyrical beauty of traditional songs come alive.
This concert will also feature artists from our Emerging Artists Collaborative.
$49
Friday, May 8th, 2026, 7- 9pm CST
Khaled Abdelli brings the vibrant soul of Algerian chaâbi music to life through the expressive voice of the mandol. Recognized as one of the world’s leading mandol players, he blends ancestral North African rhythms with influences from flamenco, Western improvisation, and global traditions. His work reflects a powerful mission: to bridge East and West through music that connects, uplifts, and inspires. Abdelli’s artistry reimagines tradition for a contemporary world, inviting listeners into a soundscape where heritage and innovation meet.
$49
Friday, June 12th, 2026, 7- 9pm CST
Experience the spellbinding artistry of Ana Everling, a vocalist and storyteller whose music bridges the deep-rooted traditions of Romanian folklore from Moldova with daring originality and improvisational flair. Drawing upon ancestral melodies, including the expressive freeform genre of Doina, Ana reimagines centuries-old sounds with a modern, intimate voice uniquely her own. Her journey—from art schools in Moldova to the streets of Chicago to sold-out stages across the U.S.—infuses her performances with authenticity, resilience, and emotional depth. Honored as Artist Emerit by the President of Moldova, Ana invites audiences into a sonic world where heritage and innovation meet, and where every moment feels both timeless and electrifying.
$49
Friday, Aug 21st, 2026, 7:30- 9:30pm CST
Flor de Toloache and The Poor Choices join forces for a dynamic, cross-cultural musical experience featuring Grammy winner Mireya Ramos and the soulful artistry of Shae Fiol. As founding members of Flor de Toloache, Ramos and Fiol bring their bold, modern take on mariachi—soaring vocals, rich harmonies, and fearless creativity. Paired with The Poor Choices’ honky-tonk grit and roots-driven sound, this collaboration creates a vibrant fusion where Mexican tradition meets Americana storytelling. Together, they light up the stage with a show full of joy, power, and unforgettable musical chemistry.
Friday, Sept 18th, 2026, 7- 9pm CST
Thursday, Oct 8th, 2026, 6- 8pm CST
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
Arts & Culture Discovery Series
Experience the timeless beauty of Paredes’ music in an intimate performance at The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, featuring cellist Ezgi Karakus and Beau Bledsoe on Portuguese guitar. Revered as one of Portugal’s greatest guitarists and most influential composers, Paredes crafted works of profound lyricism, emotional depth, and intricate artistry. Ezgi and Beau bring these pieces to life with sensitivity and expressive power, weaving the warm resonance of the cello with the shimmering delicacy of the Portuguese guitar. This concert offers a rare opportunity to hear Paredes’ iconic music in a setting that invites deep listening, reflection, and connection. Part of the Museum’s Arts & Culture Discovery Series, this concert will also include a lecture on the life of Carlos Paredes.
Note: this is a small, intimate event, so it is not part of our season ticket package.
Saturday, Nov 7th, 2026, 7- 9pm CST
This concert will also feature artists from our Emerging Artists Collaborative.
$49
$10 tickets are available through “The Drop” for selected concerts.