Internationally acclaimed vocalist and composer Elena Mîndru has enlivened the jazz music scene with her charismatic performances for two decades. Her artistry was recognized at the Montreux Jazz Voice Competition in 2012, where she was awarded the second place and the Audience Prize under the chairmanship of the legendary producer Quincy Jones.
Originally from Romania and residing in Finland, Elena Mîndru has cultivated an international career, gracing stages worldwide as a soloist with symphony orchestras and big bands, as well as with her own combo. Over the past 20 years, she has performed in over 500 concerts across the United States, France, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Estonia, Belarus, Hungary, Slovakia, Switzerland, Lithuania, Moldova, Romania, and beyond.
Elena Mîndru’s music transcends borders, blending jazz with elements of folk and world music. Collaborating with pianist Tuomas J. Turunen, she crafts compositions that resonate with audiences globally, conveying themes of hope and environmental awareness.
In addition to her musical endeavors, Elena Mîndru is a doctoral candidate at the Sibelius Academy’s Jazz Department and is the Executive Director of the Oulu Music Festival in Finland. Her multifaceted career makes her a cultural ambassador, bridging cultures and inspiring audiences worldwide.
”Elena Mîndru writes imaginative, individualistic, elegant songs that bridge the worlds of art-rock, jazz and Finnish folk music. She sings in solid, expressive English, with an understated power from the lows to the highs, has a socially aware worldview and an inspired, versatile band.” – Lucid Culture, New York (US)
Elena Mîndru, voice, compositions, and lyrics (RO/FI)
Tuomas J. Turunen, piano and compositions (FI)
Oskari Siirtola, bass (FI)
Jonatan Sarikoski, drums (FI)
