Sir Roland Hanna: Songs of Hope, Inspiration and Joy

NEW COMPILATION

Sir Roland Hanna was a musician of extraordinary imagination, depth, and humanity, as well as a kind and deeply spiritual man who is greatly missed. Few artists could communicate such a wide range of emotion through music with the honesty and warmth that Roland brought to every performance. We return to his recordings often for  inspiration, comfort and joy.

Nearly 25 years after his passing,  Roland’s music feels especially meaningful today. In a world often marked by division and uncertainty, his artistry reminds us of grace, compassion, optimism, and resilience. This collection gathers performances that are uplifting, reflective, and deeply human—capturing the spirit that made Sir Roland Hanna one of the most beloved pianists in jazz.

Most of the selections are drawn from two albums Roland recorded for IPO Recordings: ‘Everything I Love’ and ‘Colors From a Giant’s Kit’. The former was categorized by DownBeat as a masterpiece, while NEW ORLEANS ENTERTAINMENT MONTHLY WHERE Y'AT wrote: 

"Roland Hanna left a legacy of some of the most exquisite music ever heard... A recording that finds Hanna at the peak of his powers."

For ‘Colors From A Giant’s Kit’, DownBeat was equally enthusiastic: "This is thrilling stuff, make no mistake. Hard though it seems to hold the late Sir Roland Hanna in higher regard than he already is, these performances can only enhance his legacy."

JazzTimes said of the performances: "They showcase pianist Sir Roland Hanna at the height of his powers. Hanna's playing resonates with an authoritative, almost regal forcefulness yet it's also graceful."

We hope these performances offer listeners the same sense of reassurance, humanity, and hope that Roland brought to those who knew him. His music reminds us that even in difficult times, beauty, grace, and joy remain alive.