Nicole Zuraitis

Composer, pianist, arranger, and bandleader Nicole Zuraitis stands out as a prolific and trailblazing artist, who is redefining vocal jazz. Zuraitis made history with her album How Love Begins (2023), co-produced with Christian McBride. Winning the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album, she is the only artist ever to have won this award who wrote and arranged the entire album herself. Her collaborations with drummer Dan Pugach, who will also join her on stage in Istanbul, and their arrangement of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” titled “Little Fears”, springboarded her career, making her a household name in the modern-day jazz landscape. Beyond her musical mastery, Zuraitis is also an ardent activist. Her 2025 live album, Live at Vic’s, is a powerful recording showcasing her unique ability as an arranger to amplify the potential of every musician around her. As part of the 36th Akbank Jazz Festival, the New York-based musician will take the stage at Zorlu PSM Turkcell Platinum on October 10. Nicole Zuraitis: Piano, vocals Dan Pugach: Drums Idan Morim: Guitar Sam Weber: Bass