Violinist | Performer | Entertainer | Co-Founder of Esencia Sonora

 

Chavelis Santana González, professionally known as Elis Santana, is a Cuban-born violinist and versatile performer known for blending classical technique with pop, Latin, and world music influences. Based in Mauritius, Elis has become widely recognized for her captivating "pop-classic entertainment" style—where elegance meets energy in every performance.

 

Born in Pinar del Río, Cuba, and raised in Havana, Elis began her musical and dance training at the age of three. She entered formal music education at six, joining the Provincial School of Arts, and went on to graduate from Cuba's prestigious National School of Arts (ENA) in 2016 with a professional degree in Violin Performance, Music Teaching, and Ensemble Practice.

 

From a young age, Elis showed promise as a performer, winning competitions in musical creation and representing her school at national events. Early in her career, she played with acclaimed Cuban ensembles including the Benny Moré Artistic Company, traditional Cuban sextets, and classical string quartets, while also teaching violin at the Eduardo Abela Music School in Artemisa.

She also performed in major festivals in Cuba, including the grand opening of Cubadisco 2013, a special edition dedicated to the violin, and with the National Art School Orchestra of Havana, sharing the stage with renowned artists such as Frank Fernández, among others.

 

In 2017, Elis expanded her career internationally, relocating to India where she joined the Sound Spirit Event Company in Mumbai. Over the next four years, she performed in over 300 high-profile events, including luxury weddings, corporate galas, and cultural festivals across India, Maldives, Oman, Thailand, and Dubai. Her stage presence and musical flair earned her collaborations with notable artists and DJs from the Bollywood and global music scenes.

 

In 2020, Elis made Mauritius her new artistic home, where she continues to grow her career. She has performed for institutions such as Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), major banks, embassies, leasing companies, high-end resorts, luxury weddings, and private ceremonies across the island, including notable venues like Caudan Waterfront. Her performances have also featured at exclusive product launches, including car unveilings for brands like BMW and Porsche, as well as events for Mont Blanc and other premium brands.

In 2024, Elis took a major step in her professional journey by co-founding Esencia Sonora Ltd, a performance and entertainment company dedicated to delivering exceptional artistic experiences through music.

 

Elis’s repertoire spans an eclectic range—Pop, Classical, Latin, Jazz, R&B, Bollywood, Folk, House, Lounge, Afro-Cuban, Celtic, Danzón, Cha-Cha-Cha, Mauritian music, and more—making her one of the most versatile violinists in the region. With a deep ability to create atmosphere and adapt to the energy of any event, she blends technical skill with heartfelt expression, bringing elegance and soul to every stage she steps on.

 

More than a performer, Elis is a cultural ambassador—passionate about bridging genres and borders through music. With her warm presence, charismatic energy, and wide-ranging sound, she transforms events into unforgettable experiences.

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​Elis Santana: Strings That Carry Cuban Roots.