MICHAEL HANIAN

Composer · Writer · Creator

Educated in Karelia, Russia, Michael Hanian studied linguistics alongside music theory.

In 1979, he moved to Finland, where he spent more than two decades working as a composer and songwriter.

Since 2002, he has lived and worked in France.

Photo: Naomi Hanian

MUSIC

During his years in Finland, Michael composed extensively for film, theatre and advertising, receiving awards for his advertising music and contributing to short films recognized at international festivals.

He released three albums, including All the Long Way, a collection of his own songs performed by the composer himself, and Frank Robson Sings Mick Hanian. “One for the Road,” from the latter album, won the Grand Prix in a Finnish television song competition.

WRITING

Michael is the author of Conversations with an Angel Named Bill and the Black Monastery trilogy, exploring questions of love, fear, memory, and the choices that shape a human life.

CALYPSO

Michael Hanian’s musical Calypso premiered at Hartwall Arena in Helsinki in 2002. Today, the work is being reimagined as an immersive musical experience created for the sea, together with the Twin Shell Theatre — a purpose-designed waterfront venue.

contact@michaelhanian.com

© 2026 Michael Hanian