Jazz Forum with special guest Paul Hanson

On Wednesday, April 12, 2023, Jazz bassoonist Paul Hanson joined Sonoma State’s Jazz forum to engage in conversation and a shared love of music. There is a special guest most weeks that gets to share their wisdom and have a “jam session” with some of SSU’s Jazz players. The jazz forum goes from about 1 to 2:30 p.m. and is a space where students come together and share opinions and experiences with music.There were more people in the crowd than usual—probably around 20. Doug Leibinger began by defining jazz forum and outlining that it is a course for all jazz majors. Jazz education is a four-year requirement.

Hanson began the forum by playing a song on the bassoon. When finished, there was a small discussion involving the kind of music he was playing. He explained that you have to have the fundamentals down to do anything signature or out of the box. “You have to have a passion and a love for it,” said Hanson, “if it’s truly something you want to do.”

Throughout the forum, Hanson played about seven songs, many of which were very fast-paced. The audience was impressed by the speed he was able to go when playing, and they were very responsive to the music, moving their bodies and tapping their feet. Hanson talked about the technology he uses to help him with the fast parts. He explained how sometimes there are limitations you just have to find a way to work around them.

Jomei Greer, a junior at Sonoma State with a Jazz studies major, joined in the discussion by asking Hanson “Who are your heroes?” Hanson replied with five plus names, the first one being Jimmy Hendrix. He was also asked how it is carrying the bassoon around everywhere. He explained his experience of when he was in his 20s carrying it around and no one knowing what it was, how no one was playing it at the time. Hanson brought his old bassoon to the forum, one that is over 20 years old, and explained how his new one produces a bigger, deeper sound.

Greer, who has attended Jazz Forum many times, said, “Just meeting the only jazz bassoonist I’ve ever heard of was amazing.” Greer touched on how good Hanson was and how that is going to be memorable. Greer has been playing the piano since he was a kid. “When I learned that I could pursue performance in college I thought it sounded amazing, and being here has proven even more than I imagined,” said Greer.

Leif Dering, a lower division transfer in his first semester at SSU who majors in classical double-bass performance said, “My main takeaway was that the guest was a classically trained bassoonist but still relished in the creative use of technology to create unique contemporary, solo performances on an instrument that rarely gets the spotlight and is hardly seen outside a classical setting.”

Dering is a music major because “I hate money,” he said. “In all seriousness, because I love the foundational role the bass plays in the ensemble.” He is interested in playing grand orchestral works but also studies jazz and has previously toured with metal bands while in high school.“You’re not there to be the hero,” said Dering, “you’re there to support.”