In I’m Still Standing, pianist Hansen invites audiences to join him for an evening of music and storytelling that explores the experiences, relationships, and opportunities that shaped his journey in music.
“Everyone has songs that mark the chapters of their lives: The music that reminds us where we’ve been, the people we’ve met, the challenges we’ve faced, and the moments that changed us forever,” he said.
Through a combination of live performance, personal stories, photos, and video, Hansen explores the moments and relationships that shaped his life in music. While the concert follows his personal journey, it is ultimately a tribute to the communities, mentors, colleagues, students, friends, and family members whose encouragement and support made that journey possible.
“None of us get where we are on our own,” he said. “When I look back on my life in music, I see teachers, mentors, colleagues, family members, volunteers, audience members, and friends who believed in me and opened doors along the way. This concert is an opportunity to celebrate those people and the role that community has played throughout my life. The title, I’m Still Standing, reflects more than perseverance. It is a tribute to the support systems that sustain us through challenges, encourage us to pursue our passions, and remind us that our greatest accomplishments are rarely achieved alone.”
The program offers solo piano performances that span classical, musical theatre, film and jazz standards, including everything from Elton John and Billy Joel to Tchaikovsky and John Williams mixed with stories and reflections from along the way.
The evening will include with the official launch and announcement of next season’s Saturdays at 7 lineup.
All are welcome. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Donations are gratefully accepted at the door (suggested $20 per person) to support the music program at St. Andrew’s.
Hansen serves as director of music at St. Andrew’s United Church, where he has led the thriving community music program since 2013, and is the owner of Chatham Music Academy.
