The Sawkins Greene Quintet is a dynamic collaboration rooted in decades of shared musical history and deep jazz artistry. Guitarist Jeremy Sawkins and flutist Casey Greene, longtime friends since their studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music in 1984, reunited to bring to life the timeless music of the legendary Wes Montgomery. This quintet’s sound is uniquely defined by the rare and vibrant combination of flute and guitar leading the charge, creating a fresh yet authentic jazz experience.
The band is rounded out by an exceptional rhythm section: Peter Locke on piano, Mike Walsh on bass, and Mark Sutton on drums, each bringing extensive experience and a powerful groove that delivers the quintet’s signature hard-swinging style.
photos by – chanae elyse photography
Band Members
Casey Greene
A graduate of the Sydney Conservatorium with a Diploma in Jazz Studies (1985), Casey has built a versatile career spanning musical theatre, international tours, and band leadership. His journey took him from Sydney’s vibrant jazz scene to the UK for 16 years, with highlights including performances at the London Jazz Festival and Birmingham Jazz Festival. Casey returned to Australia in 2020, performing with Vince Jones and leading projects like the Sawkins Greene Quintet and Avant Raag.
- Flute
Jeremy Sawkins
Active in the Australian music community since the late 1970s, Jeremy has performed across Australia, Europe, and Asia. Known for his versatility and rich collaborations, he has shared the stage and studio with top artists including Sting and international jazz greats. Jeremy’s expertise as both a leader and accompanist has cemented his reputation as a highly respected figure in jazz and beyond.
- Guitar
Peter Locke
Peter is an outstanding jazz pianist regularly performing alongside national and international artists. His extensive experience ranges from working with John Morrison’s Swing City to other leading ensembles, showcasing his skillful command of the piano in varied jazz styles.
- Piano
Mike Walsh
A fixture in Sydney’s jazz venues, Mike has played at iconic spots like The Basement and Hilton and has been part of celebrated bands such as Les Crosby’s Hacienda Jazz Band. His performances have taken him on international tours, including New Zealand’s Art Deco Festival.
- Bass
Mark Sutton
Mark’s impressive resume includes collaborations with some of Australia’s biggest jazz names, including Vince Jones and Bernie McGann. He has also played with acclaimed international artists like Wynton Marsalis and Bob Mintzer, making him a powerhouse behind the drum kit.
- Drums
The Sawkins/Greene Quintet Showreel
Experience the passion and swing of The Sawkins Greene Quintet—an ensemble dedicated to honoring the legacy of Wes Montgomery while forging their own distinct voice in jazz.
