Aastha Tamang-Maskey: A Multifaceted Talent in Nepali Music
Early Life and Education Astha Tamang-Maskey, born in Kathmandu, Nepal, has always been surrounded by music. Moving to Canada at the age of 12, she continued to develop her musical skills, learning to play the acoustic guitar at 13 and starting songwriting at 14. She performed her original songs in high school talent shows, recording her first demo at just 15. After graduating from high school, Astha further honed her musical abilities by studying in the Independent Music Production Program at Seneca College, where she earned a nomination for the Ontario Premier’s Award. Her education continued with a diploma in audio production from the Harris Institute for the Arts and later, a business administration diploma from Sheridan College. In 2024, she graduated with an honours degree in Business Technology Management from Toronto Metropolitan University, earning a spot on the Dean’s Honour List.
Musical Career and Achievements Astha’s music blends various genres such as pop, folk, soul, and R&B, and is known for its emotional depth and melodious sound. Her debut Nepali album, Sabai Thikai Huncha (2009), marked the start of a successful career in Nepali music. The album’s radio hits, such as Gotta Be Love and Jhuto Satya, earned her accolades and a loyal fan base. Astha’s second album, Ma Ek Sapana (2012), produced hits like Khula Aakash, and her English single Where Have You Been won first place in the International Songwriting Competition in 2015.
Throughout her career, Astha has released multiple albums, including her English album Muse (2020), and her latest Nepali album Sa Re Ga Ma Pa (2024). She is known for her authenticity and her ability to return to her acoustic roots, as seen in her recent work. In addition to her solo projects, Astha collaborates with her mother, Susan Maskey, under the moniker Aama Chhori, creating music that raises social awareness.
International Recognition and Tour Astha’s talent has taken her to international stages, performing in countries such as Australia, the UK, India, Canada, and the US. She has graced renowned venues like The Opera House in Toronto, The Metro in Sydney, and The Hard Rock Café in Boston. Her performances have been a part of notable music festivals such as the Nepal Music Festival and Toronto Indie Week. Currently, Astha is preparing for her upcoming tour, Khula Aakash, starting in Nepal.
Legacy and Future Astha Tamang-Maskey’s contributions to Nepali music are vast, with a career marked by musical exploration, collaboration, and social impact. She continues to innovate in both music and business, believing in the future of technology within the music industry. With a strong fan following and numerous accolades, Astha’s influence on both Nepali and international music is undeniable.