Sasha gavlek quartet

A mix of high intensity rhythmic ideas, alongside luscious melodies and soulful improvisation, the quartet presents Gavlek's original compositions with fervour, exploring themes of self-discovery, nostalgia, and sometimes bugs.
Alongside Gavlek, the quartet features well-loved local musicians Lawrence Churches (drums), Angus Leighton (tenor sax), and Aleksander Folvig (guitar). Through their performances, this quartet shares their love for both alternative and classic jazz while providing audiences with an audibly alluring and refreshing musical experience.

SASHA GAVLEK

GUS LEIGHTON

LAWRENCE CHURCHES

ALEKS FOLVIG

Based in nipaluna lutruwita (Hobart, Tasmania), Sasha Gavlek (25) is a contemporary bassist, bandleader, composer and educator, with a love for alternative jazz and improvisation. Gavlek graduated from the UTAS Conservatorium of music with a Bachelor of Music in 2019, and is a prominent and busy musician of the island, regularly performing within various established ensembles, and in 2022, having released her debut all-original album, On Second Thoughts by the Sasha Gavlek Quartet.
By day Gavlek provides musical tutorship and accompaniment to students across local schools. Nurturing her connection with the music scene in greater Southern Australia, Gavlek is passionate in discussing the experiences of women working within a heavily male-dominated industry, and the importance of providing opportunity to those who find their voices often lost on the ears of those in power.

Gus Leighton is a 27-year-old Australian contemporary tenor saxophonist based in Hobart Tasmania. Growing up listening to a variety of music, Gus soon developed an affinity with the sounds of jazz and country music which have had a significant impact upon his career. Gus is a well-respected saxophonist, composer, arranger and bandleader of ‘Uncle Gus and The Rimshots’ and ‘The Gus Leighton Quartet’, whilst making a name for himself on the Hobart music scene as a hardworking, passionate musician who brings unbridled energy and enthusiasm to any project he is involved in. Gus is proud to be a representative artist of Bari Woodwind Inc. and Syos Saxophone Mouthpieces.

Lawrence Churches is a 26 year old drummer from Hobart, Tasmania. From an early age, Lawrence was exposed to an eclectic range of music styles and genres. This broad introduction provided the foundation for Lawrence’s music career, setting the tone for his highly versatile abilities. Beginning with metal drumming,

Lawrence later transitioned into jazz and improvisational approaches on acoustic and electronic kits. Studying under Stephen Marskell, Konrad Park, Danny Fischer and others, Lawrence has established himself on the Tasmanian music scene as one of the states ‘tightest,’ most versatile and reliable drummers.

Aleks Folvig is a freelance guitarist and guitar teacher based in Hobart, Tasmania. While Aleks has a background in jazz, (graduating from UTAS in 2020 with a Bachelor of Music w/Hons.) he performs a wide variety of styles and regularly performs with groups such as Art School Bullies (ASB); The DK Effect; Uncle Gus and The Rimshots; The Sasha Gavlek Quartet; Austin; The Wholly Cats; Kat Edwards, and other performers around Australia.

As well as playing with these groups, Aleks has also been a part of the orchestra for musicals such as Mamma Mia!; Jesus Christ Superstar and Bring It On. When not performing, he teaches guitar and bass guitar and is available for bookings and lessons.

On Second Thoughts
Sasha Gavlek Quartet Debut EP

Sasha gavlek quartet

On Second Thoughts Sasha Gavlek Quartet Debut EP

On Second Thoughts
Sasha Gavlek Quartet Debut EP