Sofija Gorbaņova
cello

Born and raised in Latvia, Sofija began her musical education at the Emīls Dārziņš Music School, graduating with distinction. She studied under the guidance of renowned cello professors Ellionora Testeļec and later with Diana Ozoliņa. Currently, she continues her artistic development at the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music, where she studies with Associate Professor Diana Ozoliņa.

Since 2026, Sofija has been a member of the Davinspiro Camerata Chamber Orchestra, performing in concerts throughout Latvia’s leading concert halls. In 2026, she joined the cello section of Sinfonietta Rīga for a special concert dedicated to the anniversary of Pēteris Vasks, which was broadcast on ARTE TV. She has also participated in several international youth orchestra projects, including Young Academy Rostock (Germany), project in collaboration with promising European musicians in Tallinn Music and Ballet school MUBA (Estonia), and the Eurochestries Festival (Estonia).

Chamber music is an important part of Sofija’s artistic life. As a member of both a string quartet and a piano trio, she performs a diverse repertoire ranging from classical masterworks to contemporary compositions by emerging composers. Her piano trio was awarded the Platinum Prize at the Saint-Saëns International Music Competition.

As an active performer, Sofija has appeared in distinguished venues including the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, Cēsis Concert Hall, Latgale Embassy GORS, Neubrandenburg Concert Hall, and the National Theatre Vanemuine. She has also participated in projects such as the opening concert of the 23rd International J. S. Bach Chamber Music Festival.

Her artistic and academic achievements have been recognized through numerous awards, including Second Prize at the 10th International A. Dombrovskis String Competition (2026), the Special Prize for Interpretation at the 7th S. Sondeckis Strings Competition (2024), Second Prize at Latvia’s National Competition (2018, 2023). In 2025, she received both the Centenary Excellence Award for outstanding academic achievement and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Prime Minister of Latvia.

In addition to her performance activities, Sofija has enriched her artistry through masterclasses with internationally acclaimed cellists, including Steven Isserlis, Kristīne Blaumane, Martti Rousi, and Simone Drescher.