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Jazz at the MMI presents: The Sarah Wearne McDonagh Quartet

The 2026 series of Jazz at the MMI continues...

Jazz at the MMI returns for 2026 with a series of three special concerts curated with bass player James Macphail, showcasing a selection of the South West’s finest musicians.

After a stellar first event in January, we’re delighted to welcome saxophonist and flautist Sarah Wearne McDonagh and her quartet for an evening of outstanding live jazz in the unique atmosphere of the MMI.

The band

  • Sarah Wearne McDonagh – Saxophone / Flute

  • Martin Bowie – Guitar

  • James Macphail – Bass

  • Damian Rodd – Drums

About Sarah

Sarah began playing the flute at age 10 and later moved to tenor saxophone, performing with school and youth jazz orchestras before gaining an unconditional offer to study jazz and classical saxophone at the Guildhall School of Music. She spent 13 years living and working in London, studying jazz improvisation with leading musicians and performing regularly across the London jazz scene.

Sarah has played with the Guildhall Jazz Band under Scott Stroman’s direction and performed alongside renowned jazz artists including Kenny Wheeler, Stan Sulzmann, and Randy Brecker, as well as working with Bobby Shew and Michel Legrand. Influenced by greats such as Hank Mobley and Dexter Gordon, she also draws inspiration from the modern jazz sounds of Bob Mintzer and Kenny Garrett, blending classic and contemporary styles.

Tickets

  • £10 standard

  • £12 if you can afford a little more (to help support the MMI)

This is a seated gig with unreserved seating.

Accessibility

If you have any accessibility requirements, we’re happy to help. Please email us in advance at events@stagnesmmi.co.uk.