Initially he worked as a builder, but had to change his occupation when a building designed by architect Gustaf Estlander collapsed in Kaivopuisto in 1907, even though Tanner was not responsible for the disaster.

Instead, Tanner became an entertainer and started to perform at the cinematograph Helikon at Kluuvinkatu in Helsinki.

There he became good friend with Rafael Ramstedt and Theodor Weissman, with whom he also performed at the capital's restaurants and cafes.

In the 1920s, Tanner was diagnosed with tuberculosis and died at his summer place Nujula in Rautalampi.

His co-worker and personal friend Rafael Ramstedt translated a few of his songs to Swedish and recorded them.