Wells Hanley

Wells Hanley is an Adjunct Professor of Jazz Piano and Small Jazz Ensemble at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). With a multifaceted career spanning jazz, classical, and rock music, he teaches courses in Jazz Piano, Jazz Piano for the Non-Keyboard Player, and Small Jazz Ensemble. Hanley holds a Bachelor of Music in Classical Piano from James Madison University and a Master of Music in Jazz Piano from The Manhattan School of Music.

• Active performer at major jazz festivals including Spoleto, North Sea, and Montreux
• Collaborated with artists across genres: Dave Matthews, Wynton Marsalis, Darius DeHaas
• Accompanies classical vocalists and supports Broadway/cabaret vocalists in New York City

His research and practice bridge historical jazz traditions with contemporary innovations, while also engaging in rock songwriting and classical vocal accompaniment. Hanley has previously served on the faculty at The New School University and James Madison University.