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Alex Kollar

1 February 2017

MUCS 103

South African Pianists Paper

The Life and Influence of Paul Hanmer

Born in Cape Town in 1961, Paul Hanmer was musically

inclined from a young age. During the 1970s, Paul began studying

classical piano and theory as a student at the University of Cape

Town. After three years of schooling, he took a leave of absence to

work with guitarist Paul Peterson who then introduced him to many

other talented musicians. Paul continued to perform with a number

of Top-40 bands as well as in several original bands. During this

time, he began to make a name for himself within the jazz world.

In 1987 Paul moved to Johannesburg where he continued to

expand his musical career, performing in various cabaret acts and

theater productions. Around this time, he formed the band Unofficial

Language with drummer, Ian Herman and bassist, Pete Sklair. The

trio released a successful album titled, Primal Steps in 1994. Four

years later, in 1998, the group released their second album, Move

Moves. Though he has always had a deep love of collaborative work,

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Paul did release his first solo album in 1997 called, Trains to Taung.

This album featured many famous South African musicians,

including, Denis Lalouette, Jethro Shasha, Louis Mhlanga, Basi

Mahlasela, Neil Ettridge and Andre Abrahamse. Trains to Taung is

still one of the most popular albums throughout the country.

In his second solo album, Window to Elsewhere, Paul

showcased not only his masterful piano playing, but also his talent

as a composer and arranger. Incorporating a diverse combination of

jazz improvisations and more classic interpretations, this album

solidified his credibility as one of South Africas finest pianists. He

seamless blend of styles and instrumental pieces in his work reflect

a deep love and respect for his African roots. It seems that with

each note his passion is offered to his listeners, inviting them into

his world of creativity and expression.

A beautiful example of this can be found in his song,

Consciencelessness, originally form his album, Trains to Taung.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nuzscHjIYA

Another beautiful example is his performance of May Morning

with McCoy Mrubata during the City Hall Sessions 2013.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OR7qwmBddLI
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Paul Hanmer continues to stand as an inspiration, not only to

musicians, but to all artists. His devotion to his craft and culture

reveals a deep connection to the art of music and shows how

powerful that art can be. As someone who had never heard his

music before, I can honestly say that listening to his pieces stirred

something within me. In such a saturated commercial market of

music, it can be easy to lose connection with true, authentic sounds.

To be moved, inspired, or transformed; you neednt do more than to

close your eyes, calm your mind, and listen and experience the

music of Paul Hanmer.

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Sources

http://www.theorbit.co.za/paul-hanmer/

http://www.smooth-jazz.de/Artists4/Hanmer.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nuzscHjIYA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OR7qwmBddLI