Simona Smirnova has carved a unique niche in New York’s music scene by blending Baltic folklore with boundary-pushing jazz. A Lithuanian-born vocalist, composer, and virtuoso kanklės player (the Lithuanian zither), Smirnova is celebrated as a global ambassador of her nation’s indigenous instrument.

As New York City hosts the Estonian Cultural Days on April 4–6, 2025, it’s a fitting time to celebrate the remarkable history and legacy of the city’s Estonian community. From the earliest Estonian settlers in colonial times to the thriving cultural scene of today, Estonian New Yorkers have nurtured a rich heritage.

On a windswept Baltic island in 2022, locals gathered at a medieval castle to honor Louis Kahn – a native of Saaremaa, Estonia, who became one of the twentieth century’s most influential architects. It was at Kuressaare Castle, looming large in Kahn’s early childhood, that his imagination was sparked; fittingly, the final design of his life stands on another island half a world away, at New York’s Roosevelt Island.

Vytenis Jankūnas transforms the bustle of city streets into thought-provoking art. Born in Lithuania and now based in New York, he is known for contemporary conceptual works that explore urban life, perception, and photography.

Riivo Kruuk is an Estonian visual artist known for creating works that combine Baltic folklore with striking modern compositions. Despite his young age, he has already built an international following, showcasing framed digital prints and large-scale murals that capture the spirit of his Eastern European roots.

Arta Jēkabsone is a Latvian vocalist and composer whose warm tone and inventive spirit have earned her a place among today’s leading jazz voices. She has been recognized with top honors at international competitions, including the Montreux Shure Jazz Voice Competition, and she added a third-place finish at the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Voice Competition to her growing list of achievements.

Immersive Earth Day Showcase by the Nordic Artists of New York Organization Highlights Nordic & Baltic Creativity in New York City

Lithuanian actor Arnas Fedaravičius is making waves in Hollywood with his latest role as Valentin in HBO’s hit anthology series The White Lotus Season 3.

Elke-Liisa Lõhmus is a cultural architect. The Estonian-born musician, entrepreneur, and event curator, now a driving force in New York City's cultural landscape, seamlessly blends her Baltic heritage with a global perspective.

When Simona Smirnova plays the kanklės, she doesn't just create music; she conjures a world. The Lithuanian-born vocalist, composer, and instrumentalist, now a vibrant force in New York City's music scene, is a global ambassador for her nation's traditional instrument.