Elena Pinderhughes is a Berkeley-born jazz flutist, vocalist, and composer renowned for her genre-defying artistry. Her musical journey began at age seven when she picked up the flute, and by nine, she had already recorded her debut album, Catch 22. She gained national attention at 11 through the HBO special The Music in Me, showcasing her prodigious talent. Elena refined her skills at the Young Musicians Choral Orchestra and later earned her degree from the Manhattan School of Music in 2017 as a recipient of the Joseph F. McCrindle Scholarship.

Throughout her career, Elena has collaborated with a stellar roster of artists, including Herbie Hancock, Esperanza Spalding, Carlos Santana, Kamasi Washington, and Common. Her contributions to albums such as Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah’s Stretch Music, which debuted at No. 7 on Billboard, and Common’s Black America Again exemplify her ability to seamlessly blend jazz, hip-hop, and R&B. She has also performed internationally with groups led by Ambrose Akinmusire, Vijay Iyer, and Omar Sosa, earning acclaim for her emotive performances and technical mastery.

Elena’s live performances have graced prestigious venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall, the White House, The Kennedy Center, Hollywood Bowl, and Coachella. She has also played at festivals across Europe, Japan, and South America, cementing her reputation as an artist with global appeal. Now in her late twenties, Elena is crafting her highly anticipated debut solo album. Balancing tradition with innovation, she continues to push musical boundaries while connecting deeply with audiences. Her work reflects a commitment to artistry that is as bold as it is authentic.

To learn more about Elena Pinderhughes and her projects, visit thisiselena.org.