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Hank Hehmsoth

About Me

Hank Hehmsoth is a jazz pianist, composer, educator, and visual artist whose work bridges jazz performance, composition, cultural exchange, and abstract visual art.

Hank Hehmsoth is an award-winning jazz pianist, composer, and educator dedicated to pushing the boundaries of jazz through performance, composition, and visual storytelling. A recipient of the Aaron Copland Fund for Music Award and a long-time figure in the Texas jazz scene, he has performed with the Joe Henderson Quintet, Bob Mintzer, Randy Brecker, Eric Marienthal, John Mills Times Ten, and Christopher Cross, among others. His latest project, Double Vision, merges live jazz with original abstract artwork, creating a dynamic, immersive experience. Hehmsoth’s music has been featured on international jazz compilations, and his album Blu-Escape was named All About Jazz’s Song of the Day (March 14, 2025). He is also a Professor of Practice at Texas State University, where he mentors the next generation of jazz musicians.

Favorite Musicians / Bands

Aaron Easley

Dan Morgenstern

Double Vision Jazz Ensemble

Dr John Mills

Hank Hehmsoth

John Mills Times Ten

Milo Hehmsoth

Rufus Reid

Spencer Starnes

Texas state Jazz Orchestra

Tito Carrillo

Utah Hamrick

MORE FAVORITES

My Jazz Story

I love jazz because it is a living, breathing art form, constantly evolving through improvisation and cultural exchange. I was first exposed to jazz as a kid, listening to Oscar Peterson and Bill Evans, trying to figure out what made their playing sound so effortless yet so deep. I met Joe Henderson as a band member during a legendary live TV broadcast at Antone’s in Austin—being on stage with him was one of the defining moments of my career. The first jazz record I bought was Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue—a gateway into a world of endless harmonic possibilities. My advice to new listeners: Let jazz surprise you. It’s about the journey, not just the destination.

My House Concert Story

I've performed intimate house concerts where jazz becomes something truly personal—no stage, no barrier, just pure connection between musician and listener. One of the most memorable was a private performance featuring my original compositions alongside projected artwork, where the audience could literally see the music as they heard it. House concerts bring jazz back to its roots—a conversation between artist and audience, unfolding in real time.

Favorite Places to See Jazz

Elephant Room

Monks Jazz Club

Parker Jazz Club

Favorite Genres

Favorite Columns

Favorite Writers

Hank Hehmsoth

Keith Henry Brown

Michael Ricci

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