Mexican singer-songwriter Silvana Estrada has been appointed as the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s first creative chair for Latin music, a role that will see her shape the orchestra’s programming and champion the continent’s rich musical traditions. This announcement made on Wednesday places the 29-year-old Latin Grammy winner on an artistic leadership team that is getting ready for music director Daniel Harding’s start in the 2027-28 season.
A New Role for Estrada
Estrada’s new appointment builds on three years of collaborations with the 107-year-old orchestra. In her capacity as creative chair for Latin music, she will create programming for Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Hollywood Bowl and The Ford, an intimate amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills. Additionally, she will work with guest artists and maintain her involvement with Youth Orchestra Los Angeles, the organization’s music education program.
“Latin music is not a single sound,” Estrada said in the Philharmonic’s announcement. “To me, it is the soul of an entire continent, an immense and profound richness woven together across generations, with the power to transcend any border.”
Estrada’s Musical Journey
Estrada’s 2022 album, “Marchita,” helped establish her blend of indie folk, jazz and traditional Mexican influences. She won that year’s Latin Grammy for best new artist and received a Grammy nomination for best global music performance in 2024. Her self-produced 2025 follow-up, “Vendrán Suaves Lluvias,” brought her six 2026 Latin Grammy nominations, including album of the year. The song “Dime” is up for record and song of the year.
“Vendrán Suaves Lluvias” emerged from profound loss. Estrada told NPR that her best friend and his younger brother were murdered in Mexico City in 2022, leaving her to navigate grief while touring internationally.
The Latin Grammys
The 27th Latin Grammys will be held Nov. 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, with Estrada scheduled to perform and Puerto Rican actress Roselyn Sánchez hosting for the 10th time.
