SARAH HANAHAN
SARAH HANAHAN
Sarah Hanahan is a New York City based Alto Saxophonist. She is a rising star in jazz and was recently named one of NPR Jazz Night in America’s 30 under 30 Youngbloods. Her debut album, Among Giants, was awarded 5 stars in Downbeat Magazine and was named as one of Downbeat’s Best Albums of the Year (2024).
debut album among giants streaming on all platforms
rated 5 stars in downbeat magazine and named an album of the year (2024)
An Essential Jazz Discovery of 2024 – NPR
"Sarah Hanahan, recently profiled on Jazz Night in America, exudes a taut incandescence on alto saxophone, and she's admirably unfazed by the giants this album invokes – pianist Marc Cary, bassist Nat Reeves and drummer Jeff "Tain" Watts, a blue-chip rhythm team that could push any soloist around. Hanahan, whether waxing lyrical or spitting fire, makes it clear that she won't be budged."
– NPR
ABOUT
Sarah Hanahan, a Massachusetts native, began playing the alto saxophone at the age of eight. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the Hartt School (University of Hartford) and went on to complete her master’s at the prestigious Juilliard School. Now based in New York City, she is an active presence on the jazz scene.
Sarah regularly performs with her own band throughout NYC and maintains a busy touring schedule both across the United States and internationally. In addition to leading her own projects, she frequently appears with acclaimed ensembles and artists such as the Mingus Big Band, Joe Farnsworth, Peter Martin, and others.
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“As a first time session leader, Hanahan plays with pure fierceness and lyrical conviction that makes you believe she could at will access the spirits of greats like Jackie McLean and John Coltrane.”
— Veronica johnson, downbeat magazine
“Saxophonist Sarah Hanahan plays with an intense and driving conviction. Her statements contain memorable themes that remain with the listener well after a song's ending. Her sound is both melodic and muscular.”
— Greg bryant, wbgo
“Sarah’s playing I enjoy very much, and I know people enjoy it because it’s sincere. She has a wonderful collection of musical influences brewing in her pot. It’s inspiring, really, hearing Sarah.”