Sasha Berliner | Fantôme

($30-$40 tickets | 6:30pm & 8:30pm Shows) Sasha Berliner, a San Francisco-born musician, composer, producer, and band leader, began her musical journey as a rock drummer before discovering her passion for the vibraphone at Oakland School for the Arts. She moved to NYC in 2016 to study under Stefon Harris at The New School, a mentorship that profoundly shaped her artistic voice.

Sasha debuted on the NYC jazz scene at Winter Jazz Fest 2018, later performing at major festivals like Atlanta Jazz Fest. In 2019, she became the first U.S. recipient of the LetterOne “Rising Stars” Jazz Award, touring North America and releasing her acclaimed debut album Azalea, blending jazz, alternative, and political themes. Her groundbreaking work earned a nomination for JazzTimes’ “Best New Release.”

Named the youngest and first female winner of Downbeat’s Critics’ Poll for “Rising Star – Vibraphone” in 2020, Sasha has headlined global venues like Newport Jazz Festival and collaborated with artists such as Tyshawn Sorey and Cecile McLorin Salvant. Her second album, Onyx (2022), praised for its bold, analog-recorded compositions, topped multiple jazz charts. Currently a UC Irvine professor, Sasha continues to innovate with her upcoming album, Fantome (2025), solidifying her as a leading voice in contemporary jazz.