Sasha Ishov

Flute

Singularly devoted to challenging and redefining flute repertoire, Sasha Ishov is a versatile flutist, educator, and researcher dedicated to fostering connections across musical communities and advancing the art of flute playing. Praised for his “well-sounded and lucid” artistry (The San Diego Union-Tribune), his work spans old and new solo and chamber repertoire, experimental electroacoustic projects, and programming that highlights the flute’s expressive range and contemporary relevance.

Sasha’s performance repertoire celebrates the flute’s extraordinary range, having premiered over 100 new works across diverse settings. He has appeared as a substitute musician with the San Diego Symphony, performed with the Ojai Festival Orchestra, featured as a member of the NYO-USA All-Stars, and was a fellow with the Aspen Contemporary Ensemble. His versatility extends to national and international stages, including performances at the National Flute Association, Institute for Electronic Music and Acoustics in Graz, Harvard University, BBC Proms, June in Buffalo, and Neofonía–Festival de Música Nueva de Ensenada, among others.

As an educator, Sasha draws on his diverse training to guide the next generation of musicians. His teaching blends the rigor of classical training with forward-thinking methods informed by his performance practice. Sasha empowers students to connect technical mastery with personal artistry and cultural relevance, fostering a holistic approach to music-making. His instrumental training incorporates mindfulness practices like Body Mapping and the Alexander Technique, ensuring students develop healthy, sustainable habits that support their long-term growth. 

Sasha holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Contemporary Music Performance from UC San Diego and degrees from the Eastman School of Music and Interlochen Arts Academy. He is a Miyazawa Emerging Artist, performing on instruments by Miyazawa, Powell, Altus, and Di Zhao.