Masakowski Family

Biography

The Masakowski Family is a renowned jazz ensemble from New Orleans, centered around guitarist Steve Masakowski, his daughter Sasha Masakowski (vocals), and his son Martin Masakowski (bass). The family's musical journey began in a household steeped in both jazz and classical traditions—Steve, a celebrated jazz guitarist and professor, and his wife Ulrike Antonie Sprenger, a concert pianist, fostered a creative environment where music was a constant presence. Sasha recalls composing at the piano with her father from the age of six, while Martin gravitated toward the bass, both children absorbing influences from their parents and the vibrant New Orleans scene.[1][2][3]

Steve Masakowski's own career is marked by innovation and leadership in jazz: after studying at Berklee College of Music, he returned to New Orleans, collaborating with local greats and international stars, founding groups like Astral Project and Mars, and eventually serving as Chair of Jazz Studies at the University of New Orleans. The Masakowski Family Band emerged as a formal project in the 2010s, blending their individual talents and experiences. Their 2016 album 'N.O. Escape' showcases their collective artistry, drawing on jazz standards, New Orleans rhythms, and contemporary improvisation.[2][3][4]

Musically, the Masakowski Family is known for their sophisticated interplay, genre-blending arrangements, and a deep respect for both jazz tradition and modern experimentation. Sasha, in particular, brings elements of electronic music and global influences to the group, while Martin's bass work is noted for its creativity and technical prowess. Their legacy is one of intergenerational collaboration, mentorship, and a commitment to advancing New Orleans' jazz heritage.

Fun Facts

• Steve Masakowski is credited as the inventor of the keytar, a guitar-shaped keyboard instrument.[3]
• Danny Barker, a legendary New Orleans musician, bequeathed his acoustic guitar to Steve Masakowski upon his death in 1994.[4]
• Sasha Masakowski has been nominated as New Orleans’ Best Female Vocalist and is known for blending jazz with electronic music and global sounds.[1][2]
• The Masakowski Family Band continued to perform together online during the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting to virtual concerts.[1]

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Ellis Marsalis Jr. - Steve Masakowski worked in a duet with Marsalis for three years and was later hired by him to teach at the University of New Orleans. (Duet performances, UNO Jazz Program) [1980s-1990s]
• Bert Braud - Steve studied classical composition and orchestration with Braud, who also taught other New Orleans jazz luminaries. (Private study) [1976-1978]

Key Collaborators

• Martin Masakowski - Steve's son and bassist in the Masakowski Family Band and Nova NOLA. (N.O. Escape (2016), Nova NOLA) [2010s-present]
• Sasha_Masakowski_and_The_Sidewalk - Steve's daughter, vocalist and composer in the Masakowski Family Band and Nova NOLA. (N.O. Escape (2016), Nova NOLA) [2010s-present]
• Astral Project - Steve is a founding member of this influential New Orleans jazz fusion group. (Multiple albums and performances) [1987-present]
• Dianne Reeves - Steve toured with the acclaimed jazz vocalist. (Touring ensemble) [1993-1996]
• Allen Toussaint, Mose Allison - Steve has performed and recorded with these legendary musicians. (Various live and studio collaborations) [1980s-2000s]

Artists Influenced

• Students at University of New Orleans (including Harry_Connick_Jr, Terence Blanchard, Branford Marsalis, Wynton_Marsalis) - Steve's teaching and leadership at UNO's Jazz Studies program influenced a generation of jazz musicians. (UNO Jazz Program, mentorship) [1991-2022]
• Sasha_Masakowski_and_The_Sidewalk - Steve's daughter, who credits her father as a primary influence and collaborator. (N.O. Escape (2016), solo albums) [2000s-present]
• Martin Masakowski - Steve's son, who developed his bass style under his father's guidance. (N.O. Escape (2016), Nova NOLA) [2000s-present]

Source: Wikipedia

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Crescent City Jones (N.O. Escape)
2. Too Bad (N.O. Escape)
3. Mancuso (N.O. Escape)
4. House of the Rising Sun (N.O. Escape)
5. Les Oignons (N.O. Escape)
6. Mojo (N.O. Escape)
7. Exactly Like You (N.O. Escape)
8. N.O. Escape (N.O. Escape)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia