Born in Johannesburg and shaped by the musical heritage of Greece, Maria Manousaki has established herself as one of the most versatile and evocative voices in jazz and world music today. A virtuoso violinist and Berklee College of Music alumna, Maria’s artistry is a sophisticated bridge between cultures, blending the haunting melodies of her Cretan roots with the complex rhythms of modern New York jazz.

Her latest album, Behind Closed Doors (released April 2025 in New York), has garnered rave reviews worldwide. Described by critics as a “revelatory experience” and a “poignant tribute to resilience,” the record explores the journey from grief to healing, weaving traditional Mediterranean textures into a contemporary jazz tapestry with cinematic depth.

Following the global success of the album, Maria will be performing at the prestigious Jazzahead! festival in Bremen, Germany (April 2026)—the epicenter of the international jazz scene.

Since moving to New York, Maria has collaborated with some of the world’s most renowned musicians, producing a discography that is as technically brilliant as it is emotionally resonant. Her debut, Sole Voyage, was named Best Jazz Album at the Academia Awards, followed by the critically acclaimed Hidden Trails in 2021.

Beyond the recording studio, Maria is a formidable force in the global music scene. As the founder of the Cretan World Music Festival and curator for the Vlatos Jazz series, she is a dedicated architect of platforms for international talent. Her own performance history reads like a roadmap of prestigious global stages:

• Opening for Sting at Lincoln Center, New York
• Performing with Grammy winner Arooj Aftab
• Collaborating with the late pianist Carlos Voutsinas at the Perth Opera House
• Featured in Adele’s Australian concert film
• International festival appearances at the Winter Jazz Festival (Germany), Abu Dhabi Film Festival, and the Mediterranean Jazz Festival in New York
• Performing in Turkey at the Bodrum Mediterranean Jazz Festival

Whether she is improvising in a high-energy jazz set or composing melancholic, expressive themes, Maria’s music transcends boundaries. She remains a storyteller at heart, using the four strings of her violin to celebrate diversity, unity, and the enduring power of the human spirit.