Sasha Berliner
When Sasha Berliner takes the stage at Storyville on the final night of Moldejazz, she does so with an artistic voice that places her firmly at the forefront of the new generation of jazz musicians. Described as a “young mallet master” by JazzTimes, the Los Angeles–based vibraphonist and composer has, in a remarkably short time, established herself as one of the most exciting and innovative voices in contemporary jazz.
As the winner of the DownBeat Critics Poll #1 Rising Star Vibraphonist award and selected for NPR Jazz Night in America’s Class of 2024 Youngbloods, Berliner has already made her mark on some of the world’s most important stages. She has collaborated with leading artists such as Christian McBride, Tyshawn Sorey, Marcus Gilmore, and Cécile McLorin Salvant, while also moving seamlessly into more genre-crossing collaborations with artists like The Free Nationals and Flea.
With three critically acclaimed albums — Azalea (2019), Onyx (2022), and Fantome (2025) — she has developed a distinctive musical language in which the vibraphone stands at the center of a rich and expansive soundscape. Her music combines acoustic and electric elements, drawing inspiration from Miles Davis’ electric period while remaining deeply rooted in both improvisation and composition. At the same time, she incorporates influences from pop, rock, and funk, creating a sound that is complex, accessible, and deeply personal.
Berliner is known for her technical precision and powerful expression, but also for her ability to rethink the possibilities of her instrument. Through her work with electronic vibraphone solutions and new band projects, she continues to expand the boundaries of what the vibraphone can be in modern jazz.
At Storyville, she presents her own band in a concert that combines virtuosity, energy, and artistic vision. This is an artist in rapid evolution — with a musical voice that both points forward and leaves a lasting impression.