Heikki Tuhkanen (b. 1983) is one of the most talented and versatile young trombonists in Finland. He is known as a trusted trombonist in many big bands and for a reason: he has, despite of his young age, had time to perform in the big bands of i.a. Bob Mintzer, Bill Watrouss and Peter Herbolzheimer. Tuhkanen started his music career with cello lessons at the age of 5 but cello was replaced by trombone when he was 11-years-old and when he participated in a big band summer camp he finally got really interested in  jazz music.

After graduating from high school in 2001, Tuhkanen moved to Helsinki and started his studies at the Pop & Jazz Conservatory. During his studies he played in many bands and made connections to different musicians. After graduating from the conservatory in 2005 Tuhkanen continued his studies at the jazz department of the Sibelius Academy the same year.

Recently Tuhkanen has performed in i.a. Caribia, Middle-Europe, Russia, Sweden and Finland. His technique has developed during the years into more versatile direction and one can hear influences from jazz, funk and reaggae in his playing. The most active partners for Tuhkanen recently have been i.a. UMO Jazz Orchestra, Jimi Tenor, Jean-Philippe Marthely, Michle Henderson, Ricky-Tick Big Band, Raappana, Helsingin Kaupunginteatteri, Riku Niemi Orchestra and ESA Jazz Orchestra.