Hania Rani

In the world of contemporary classical music, few shine as brilliantly as Hania Rani. Born Hanna Raniszewska in the storied city of Gdańsk, Poland, she carries with her a rich tapestry of sound that blurs the lines between genres. Rani's prowess is not just in her skill as a pianist but in her ability to weave narratives with her compositions.

Her debut, “Esja”, was more than just an introduction—it was a statement. Released in 2019 under the revered Gondwana Records label, it swiftly garnered international applause. The album, a captivating collection of solo piano masterpieces, clinched four Fryderyk Awards, cementing Rani's position in the global music scene.

Not one to rest on her laurels, Rani's next venture, “Home”, was a dive into uncharted territories. The 2020 release saw her juxtaposing her signature piano with vocals, nuanced electronics, and the rhythmic foundation provided by bassist Ziemowit Klimek and drummer Wojtek Warmijak. It's no wonder the album was crowned with the “Best Composer” accolade from Fryderyk and found its place in Rough Trade's coveted “Albums of the Year”.

The unveiling of “Hello”, the teaser for her album “Ghosts”, was a surprising yet delightful shift from the New Classical style for which she was known. This sonic journey, which spanned 13 tracks and 67 minutes, saw Rani gracefully navigate between realms of sound, with luminous contributions from Ziemowit Klimek and the ethereal voice of Patrick Watson.

With her roots in Gdansk and her heart split between Warsaw and Berlin, Rani's music became a beacon of solace during the pandemic. Her “Live from Studio S2” performance, described as "sublime and minimalist" by BBC Radio 4's Mark Coles, resonated with millions.

Rani's versatility is evident in her collaborations and explorations beyond classical confines. From teaming up with cellist Dobrawa Czocher for Deutsche Grammophon releases to delving into alternative pop with the duo Tęskno, she has showcased her wide-ranging musical aptitudes. Her forays into film and theatre music, as well as her work on sound and spatial art installations like “Room for Listening” in Warsaw, further underscore her multidimensional talents.

On the global stage, Rani's concerts have spanned continents, from Europe to North America and from Australia to Japan. Prestigious venues like the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg and The Roundhouse in London have witnessed her sold-out performances. Over the years, collaborations with luminaries such as Vikingur Olafsson, Portico Quartet, and Christian Löffler have enriched her musical tapestry.

In Rani's own words, "Music is my way of communication." She envisions music without borders, divisions, or genres. This sentiment rings true in every note she plays and every melody she composes. Hania Rani, with her blend of classical training and contemporary sensibilities, stands as a testament to the boundless possibilities of music.