The New Thing: Interview with Stuart Vandegraaff, Masha’s Legacy

A global-fusion of cultures and rhythms, independent Sydney 8-piece Masha’s Legacy create music that celebrates both unity and identity in modern day Australia.

With the beginnings of the group culminating over 6-years ago, this collective has evolved into a captivating live act with both live dancers and talented musicians. It’s a show that brings to life exhuberant and gorgeous compositions, drawing on Turkish, Egyptian, Lebanese and Eastern European musical traditions as well as Jazz.

On the verge of releasing their debut album, Safe Haven, band leader and composer Stuart Vandegraaff joined me on The New Thing ahead of their album launch at Venue 505 in Surry Hills, to chat about his passion for Middle Eastern music, the five year process for creating this album, and the importance of music in creating discourse around political and social issues.

Listen to Parts 1 and 2 here:

Part 1

Part 2

Be sure to catch Masha’s Legacy at Venue 505 on January 25th. Details below.

The musicians:
Stuart Vandegraaff – MD, compositions & arrangements, saxophones, clarinet, Arabic nays
Christopher Soulos – electric bass, FX
Mahammd Lelo – Q’nun
Adem Yilmaz – percussion
Nick Southcott – keyboards
Adnaan Barake – ‘oud
James Tawadros – percussion
Miriam Waks – vocal

Masha’s Legacy ‘Safe Haven’ Album Launch
(w/ live dancing from Jrisi Jusakos & Kelly “Kurvy” Guenther)

Where: Venue 505, Surry Hills
When: Wed, 25th January 8:00PM

Tickets: $20 Concession, $25 General Admission

More info can be found here.

www.facebook.com/mashas.legacy