Award-winning jazz composer and performer Hank Hehmsoth, an associate professor of practice in the School of Music at Texas State University, has been honored with a grant from the Aaron Copland Fund for Music, recognizing his groundbreaking work in jazz and contemporary music.
The award will support Hehmsoth’s ongoing musical innovation with the Double Vision Jazz Ensemble, a group he co-leads with legendary saxophonist John Mills.
“This grant is a tremendous honor, reflecting our commitment to pushing jazz boundaries while celebrating the rich traditions of American music,” said Hehmsoth. “With this support, Double Vision will continue to expand the jazz repertoire, create new works and inspire the next generation of musicians."
The grant will fund a series of live performances, the creation of new compositions and educational initiatives, including masterclasses and workshops at TXST. Hehmsoth’s work blends jazz with contemporary art music and world influences, earning him accolades as a dynamic force in the jazz world.
Hehmsoth’s musical highlights include:
- Co-leading Double Vision, which debuted to critical acclaim in 2022, fusing jazz with global music traditions
- Receiving multiple national and international awards, including the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Fellowship in Jazz Composition and the MacDowell Fellowship
- Composing works integrating advanced contemporary techniques, jazz improvisation and global music elements
Double Vision will utilize the grant to further its mission of enriching the Central Texas jazz scene while showcasing the region’s unique contributions to the genre. Upcoming projects include performances at SXSW 2025 and new recordings that promise to capture the ensemble’s innovative sound.
Hehmsoth’s dedication to education and mentorship remains central to his artistic vision. “This award reaffirms my belief in the power of music to bring communities together, inspire creativity and share the beauty of jazz with the world,” he said.
About the Aaron Copland Fund for Music
The Aaron Copland Fund for Music was established to encourage and improve public knowledge and appreciation of contemporary American music. The fund provides financial support to composers, musicians and music organizations that embody the spirit of Copland’s legacy through innovation and education.