Trust the Process: Tim Hall on Music, Poetry, and Community

February 22, 2026

“Trust the process” is more than a phrase for poet, saxophonist, and professor Tim Hall — it is the foundation of his life and artistic journey. Raised in Detroit by deeply devoted church-going parents, Hall grew up surrounded by spirituality, music, and discipline. He recalls mentors who would bring him to bars, sit him quietly in a corner, and allow him to observe musicians at work. Those experiences taught him the importance of patience, learning, and trust.

For Hall, trusting himself developed over time through mentorship, research, and mistakes. He learned to examine what felt true to him and to believe that once a decision was made, he would find his way forward. His work often reflects this honesty and vulnerability, including poems inspired by his son, such as his heartfelt “prayer” that softly repeats, “Please go to sleep.”

When Hall moved to Boston in 2013, he initially felt isolated, without a safety net or artistic community. Determined to grow, he immersed himself in the city’s creative spaces, connecting with poets, musicians, actors, dancers, and artists. For several years, he invested deeply in poetry and performance while building meaningful relationships within the arts community.

A turning point came when he met Catherine T. Morris during a conversation at a friend’s home. Through that connection, Hall became involved with the Boston Arts Music Soul Festival and helped build artistic organizations where he could contribute his knowledge and vision.

Hall believes his audience has matured together with him. Through music and poetry, he shares his authentic self and honest reflections on resilience, community, and the experiences of being a heterosexual Black man. His goal is connection — creating work that is accessible, truthful, and capable of helping others feel seen, heard, and understood.