The sextet is composed of some of Finland's most dynamic improvisors, and Haarla has given these vibrant artists the space to move the music in their own individual directions within the framework she has laid down.

The Iro Haarla Sextet was founded in 2009 and performs its leader's compositions, in which Haarla utilizes the possibilities offered by the three-horn front line of the group. For their 2013 recording, Kolibri, she has chosen seven unique, multilayered compositions that approach an almost big band like complexity in some of the arrangements. Haarla has found inspiration for her compositions from nature, particularly from birds and their incredible ability to survive in the world.