HPPAA Past Projects

New Music USA – Composer Assistance Program

In 2012, HPPAA Director Hank Hehmsoth was awarded a prestigious New Music USA grant, enabling the public performance of his composition Carlos’ n Charlie’s. This piece premiered at the 15th Annual Inside Out Steelband Festival in Austin, performed by the renowned Knights of Steel at the One World Theatre. The project, supported by the Composer Assistance Program, exemplified HPPAA’s mission to bring innovative music to life. Carlos’ n Charlie’s also earned Special Recognition from the Jazz Composers Orchestra Institute at Columbia University in 2010 and is published internationally by Drop6 Media.

Cirque Du Soleil – Texas Debut

In 2007, HPPAA founder Hank Hehmsoth collaborated with the Texas Music Office to support Cirque Du Soleil’s first-ever visit to Texas. This landmark event involved a week of auditions featuring performers from across South America, Mexico, and the Southwestern United States, ranging in age from 15 to 75. The partnership showcased HPPAA’s dedication to promoting extraordinary artistry and talent.

Microsoft PC Game: Casino

HPPAA members contributed Big Band jazz arrangements to Microsoft’s PC game Casino. The recordings, produced by Paul Baker, featured authentic Vegas-inspired jazz from iconic resorts such as The Mirage and Bellagio, bringing the vibrant atmosphere of Las Vegas to life.

Paramount Theatre: Jesus Christ Superstar – New Millennium

For the Broadway Across America national tour, Hank Hehmsoth created modernized arrangements for the iconic rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar. These 2001 updates reimagined the 1970s classic for contemporary audiences, revitalizing its music for the new millennium.

Ballet Austin: Ritú Del Sol Andes: Diem

Commissioned by Ballet Austin, Ritú Del Sol Andes: Diem is a groundbreaking ballet composed by Hank Hehmsoth. Featuring Andean flutes and tribal drums, the work was performed by the Kinesis Dance/Theatre Project under the direction of choreographer Toni Bravo. The world premiere took place at Austin’s Mary Moody Theater, blending world music with modern ballet.

New Musical: Walk With Me

HPPAA members performed in Walk With Me, a musical composed by Hank Hehmsoth that explores the ancient meditation practice of walking religious labyrinths. Directed by Melba Martinez, the production premiered at the Mary Moody North Theatre, merging storytelling with meditative music and lyrics.

Grammy in the Schools

HPPAA was invited to participate in the NARAS Foundation’s Grammy in the Schools program, where founder Hank Hehmsoth led interactive workshops, seminars, and masterclasses for Austin high school students. As a lifetime Grammy voting member, Hehmsoth continues to inspire young musicians through educational outreach.

Documentary Film: Lady Bird Johnson

HPPAA members contributed original music to the U.S. National Park Service documentary Lady Bird Johnson. Composed by Hank Hehmsoth, the soundtrack highlights the life and legacy of the former First Lady and is featured hourly at the Johnson National Historical Park in Johnson City, Texas.

The University of New Mexico – Two Desert Dances

Commissioned by the Robb Trust, Two Desert Dances: Arroyo Storm – Blue Moon Mist blends Hehmsoth’s live compositions with historic field recordings of New Mexico Native Americans. The project reflects HPPAA’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and innovation in music.

Austin Computer Expo: Blade Runner

At the Austin Computer Expo/Fair, sponsored by Strait Music Company, Hank Hehmsoth debuted Blade Runner, a composition performed live with cutting-edge computer music interfaces. This performance embodied HPPAA’s mission to merge technology and artistry.