Biography
Jaz Sawyer: Musician, Educator, Emerging, Actor
Jaz Sawyer is an acclaimed drummer, recording artist, educator, and emerging actor whose career spans performance, film, television, and music production. As a musician, Sawyer has performed at world-renowned venues including Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and The Kennedy Center, among many others. His artistry can be heard on more than 80 recordings as both a bandleader and sideman alongside celebrated artists including George Benson, Wynton Marsalis, Abbey Lincoln, and Phil Lesh & Friends. His work also appears on the soundtrack for the 2019 feature film The Chaperone.
Praised for his musicality and expressive style, The New York Times wrote, "Mr. Sawyer derives maximum melody from percussion."
In addition to his performance career, Sawyer has expanded into acting, building credits in television, film, and comedy productions. His on-screen work includes a co-star role in The Champagne of Comedy (2024), directed by Steve Byrne for Punchup Live, appearances on People Puzzler, America’s Court with Judge Ross, and film work including Straight Outta Compton. He also appeared in HBO’s Treme, bringing together his deep connection to music and storytelling.
Sawyer’s contributions to film and television extend behind the scenes through music department work on productions including Hammer and Bolter (Games Workshop), The Chaperone (PBS/Sony), Superstition (SYFY/Netflix), American Experience: New Orleans (PBS), and Infidelity.
Dr. Sawyer holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from The New School/Mannes College in New York City and a Master of Public Administration & Public Policy degree from Metropolitan College of New York. He remains deeply engaged in arts and music education, serving communities in New York, the San Francisco Bay Area, New Orleans, and Los Angeles.
