University of Texas at Austin, MM
Oberlin College, BA
Music has been the nexus of Sasha’s life. Growing up in the rustic beauty of Western Mass, the son of a folk singer and political activist, Sasha’s childhood was steeped in acoustic guitars, protests, and tall trees. Sasha started playing clarinet in 2nd grade and soon he was holding down the drums for his band’s debut at Northampton’s JFK Middle School All School Party.
Sasha attended Oberlin College where he majored in Music Theory. Upon graduating, Sasha served two years as the music teacher, band director, and choir director for the New Hingham Elementary School in Chesterfield, MA.
In 2014, Sasha moved to Austin to pursue a MM in Music Education at the University of Texas at Austin. While in Austin, Sasha formed the indie-folk group American Dreamer (featuring his wife Courtney on cello). American Dreamer is represented by the Texas Commission on the Arts and was a 2021 Sonic Guild grant recipient. The band has performed at the Old Settler’s Music Festival, Kerrville Folk Festival, Fischer Fest, and been featured on KUTX and Sun Radio.
In 2017, Sasha signed a publishing deal with Victory Records/Another Victory Publishing. His music has been featured in Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint and in a promo spot for Food Basics. Sasha’s 2020 debut album Family received praise from Americana Highways, Austin 360, The Bluegrass Situation, KUTX, Elmore Magazine, and No Depression.
In 2022, Sasha returned to Western Mass to be close to family and start the music program at Rise Preparatory Academy in Springfield. In New England, Sasha has been featured in the Daily Hampshire Gazette, Greenfield Recorder, and Mass Live and performed at the Green River Festival, Back Porch Festival, Summer On Strong, and countless clubs, breweries, and wineries.
“Sasha’s voice is pure and his songwriting instincts sharp.” —No Depression