Hank Hehmsoth

• The group is dedicated to transforming jazz into a vibrant, collaborative experience that inspires and connects audiences around the globe. —  Dylan Marine March 21, 2025

• ​​​​​​"His charm lies in his fluid ability to traverse quiet passages and ethereal moments, creating an enchanting atmosphere."
  

  — Jazz in Family, April Issue

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• The group is dedicated to transforming jazz into a vibrant, collaborative experience that inspires and connects audiences around the globe. —  Dylan Marine March 21, 2025

• ​​​​​​"His charm lies in his fluid ability to traverse quiet passages and ethereal moments, creating an enchanting atmosphere."
  

  — Jazz in Family, April Issue

• "Making that possible was the sparkling keyboard work of pianist Hank Hehmsoth, who performed the same role last year with the Austin Symphony when it performed 'La La Land in Concert.'"
  

  — David Hendricks, San Antonio Express

• "Hank Hehmsoth, an award-winning composer and performer and associate professor of practice in the School of Music at Texas State University, joins the Big Ideas TXST podcast for August's episode, discussing his work with Christopher Cross, music education and the fascinating discoveries he’s made in jazz research."
  

  — Texas State University Newsroom

• "Hank Hehmsoth, associate professor in the School of Music at Texas State University, has completed three research projects of jazz and music history that range from Miles Davis and Bill Cosby to jazz drumming to composer Jerry Goldsmith."
  

  — Texas State University Newsroom

• "Hank is different from the traditional composer because he's a working jazz man. He brings that 'player's' perspective to what he writes whether it's a jazz work or classical work... some of the best jazz you'll hear around here, or anywhere else, for that matter."
  

  — John Bustin, Austin American-Statesman

• "...very loose and open to possibilities, he takes it to another level, writing, playing, his compositions continue to evolve and grow. I had a chance to play with Hank and hear some of his compositions as well. A very fine musician, indeed! He demonstrates a strong sense of originality and compositional craft."
  

  — Bob Mintzer, jazz saxophonist, composer - Yellowjackets

• "Hehmsoth’s compositions have found a home on international compilation albums, proving that jazz’s reach extends far beyond the concert hall—into coffee shops, night drives, and curated playlists around the world."
  

  — The University Star

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Primary Instrument

Piano

Location

Austin

Willing to teach

Advanced only

Credentials/Background

Credentials and Background:

• MacDowell Norton Stevens Fellow in Composition
• National Endowment for the Arts Fellow in Jazz Composition
• Fulbright Senior Specialist in Jazz Studies
• Research Scholar – Institute of Jazz Studies, Rutgers University
• Recipient of Texas State University Presidential Award for Excellence in Scholarly/Creative Activities
• Pianist with the Grammy©-nominated jazz group Times Ten
• Lifetime voting member for the GRAMMY© Awards
• First Place – National Association of Composers USA, Composer Competition

Teaching Interests:

• Contemporary Jazz Theory and Composition
• Advanced Piano Techniques (Classical and Jazz)

Teaching Philosophy and Experience:

Read more

Primary Instrument

Piano

Location

Austin

Willing to teach

Advanced only

Credentials/Background

Credentials and Background:

• MacDowell Norton Stevens Fellow in Composition
• National Endowment for the Arts Fellow in Jazz Composition
• Fulbright Senior Specialist in Jazz Studies
• Research Scholar – Institute of Jazz Studies, Rutgers University
• Recipient of Texas State University Presidential Award for Excellence in Scholarly/Creative Activities
• Pianist with the Grammy©-nominated jazz group Times Ten
• Lifetime voting member for the GRAMMY© Awards
• First Place – National Association of Composers USA, Composer Competition

Teaching Interests:

• Contemporary Jazz Theory and Composition
• Advanced Piano Techniques (Classical and Jazz)

Teaching Philosophy and Experience:

As a performing artist, Hank has played over 10,000 international, national, and regional performances across genres, including classical, jazz, pop/rock, Broadway, concert tours, nightclubs, and symphonies.

At the Texas State University School of Music, Hank teaches Composition and Jazz Piano, mentoring students from diverse backgrounds, including Serbia, China, South Korea, and South America. His students have earned scholarships and awards, including at the Berklee School of Music and through the Patti Strickel Harrison Scholarship.

Composition students gain expertise in commercial arranging and contemporary jazz techniques, while instrumentalists study advanced jazz performance.

Student Feedback:

• "My understanding of jazz harmony and composition has grown significantly since our first lesson. Thank you for believing in me and challenging me to be a better composer, orchestrator, and musician."

• "The best teacher I have had throughout all of my degrees. His work ethic is tremendous. I have recommended him to the best students I know."

• "Seriously, this is the most useful stuff I've encountered in my education thus far."

Quotes from Notable Figures:

• "Hank is different from the traditional composer because he's a working jazz man. He brings that 'player's' perspective to what he writes, whether it's jazz or classical... some of the best jazz you'll hear around here, or anywhere else, for that matter."
  — John Bustin, Austin American-Statesman

• "...very loose and open to possibilities. He takes it to another level with writing, playing, and compositions that evolve and grow. A very fine musician, indeed!"
  — Bob Mintzer, jazz saxophonist and composer – Yellowjackets

Clinic/Workshop Information

As a seasoned jazz pianist, composer, and educator, I offer master classes and clinics that delve into the intricacies of jazz performance, composition, and improvisation. My sessions are designed to provide musicians with practical insights and techniques to enhance their artistry.

Clinic Offerings:

• Advanced Jazz Improvisation Techniques: Exploring modal jazz, complex chord structures, and improvisational strategies to elevate solo performances.

• Composition and Arranging in Jazz: Guidance on creating original compositions, with a focus on integrating traditional jazz elements with contemporary influences.

• Mastering Jazz Piano: In-depth sessions on advanced piano techniques, voicings, and the development of a personal style within the jazz genre.

• Ensemble Performance Dynamics: Strategies for effective communication, cohesion, and spontaneity within small and large jazz ensembles.

Collaborations with Renowned Artists:

I have had the privilege of conducting master classes alongside esteemed jazz musicians, including:

• Randy Brecker: Renowned trumpeter known for his work with Blood, Sweat & Tears and The Brecker Brothers.

• Joe Henderson: Legendary tenor saxophonist celebrated for his contributions to hard bop and post-bop jazz. See my concert with Joe here

• Bob Mintzer: Saxophonist and member of the Yellowjackets, recognized for his prowess in both performance and composition.

• Bob Berg: Influential saxophonist noted for his work with Miles Davis and his impact on the fusion genre.

• Eric Marienthal: Acclaimed saxophonist associated with the Chick Corea Elektric Band, known for his versatility across jazz styles.

These collaborations have enriched my teaching approach, allowing me to incorporate diverse perspectives and techniques into my clinics.

Notable Engagements:

• U.S. Department of Defense Clinician: In September 2014, I was invited as a trainer/clinician for professional Army and Air Force musicians at Fort Eustis, Virginia, focusing on enhancing the musical capabilities of military ensembles.

  Fine Arts Texas State University

• International Workshops: Conducted master classes at the Pro Jazz Professional Institute in Santiago, Chile, emphasizing contemporary American jazz performance and theory.

  Fulbright Senior Specialist — ProJazz Institute

Testimonials:

"Hank is different from the traditional composer because he's a working jazz man. He brings that 'player's' perspective to what he writes, whether it's a jazz work or classical work... some of the best jazz you'll hear around here, or anywhere else, for that matter."
— John Bustin, Austin American-Statesman

"...very loose and open to possibilities. He takes it to another level with writing, playing, and compositions that evolve and grow. A very fine musician, indeed!"
— Bob Mintzer, jazz saxophonist and composer – Yellowjackets

For a glimpse into one of my master classes with Bob Mintzer, you can watch the following video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWOkXUGqcSQ&ab_channel=HanksJazz

My clinics are tailored to meet the specific needs of participants, whether they are advanced students, professional musicians, or educators seeking to deepen their understanding of jazz.

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