This season showcases Ensemble Ibérica’s most expansive programming yet, uniting boundary-crossing collaborations and music rooted in global traditions. Audiences will encounter the soulful power of Galician gaita traditions, the poetic fusion of classical, jazz, and Latin American influences, and the border-driven force of Sin Fronteras. Additional programs highlight the expressive depth of Algerian chaâbi, the haunting lyricism of Romanian doina, the elegance of the Portuguese guitar, and the passion and precision of contemporary tango. Together, these performances create a season defined by artistry, discovery, and connection. Season Tickets available.
Saturday, April 18th 2026, 7- 9pm CST
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
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
Saturday, May 9th, 2026, 7- 9pm CST
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
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
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
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
Saturday, Nov 7th, 2026, 7- 9pm CST
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
This concert will also feature artists from our Emerging Artists Collaborative.
$49
Thursday, Oct 8th, 2026, 6- 8pm CST
Culturally Curious Series
$10 tickets are available through “The Drop” for selected concerts.