Jazz Finland Live

At the Night of the Arts at Stoa square in Itäkeskus – free entry!

The UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra, jazz vocalist Elena Mindru and actor-vocalist Juha-Pekka Mikkola serve a full range of fascinating music familiar from radio playlists and movies in big band versions.

What does a funk version of Beyoncé’s Crazy In Love sound like? How about Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You as Latin jazz? Not to mention Harry Styles’ Watermelon Sugar, which has been bent into a very sweet rendition by a 16-piece orchestra! The songs have been arranged respecting the different styles and eras of jazz, from blues to salsa and swing. The program also includes a few jazz classics from decades ago. The conductor is Mikko Hassinen.

Duration about 1 h.

In case of rain, the concert will be moved into the Stoa Cultural Centre.

Elena Mindru (b. 1988) is one of the best Finnish jazz singers. Known for her charismatic performances and improvisations, Mindru regularly performs as a soloist with large orchestras in both her home countries, Finland and Romania, among other countries. She has published five jazz albums under her own name, the latest Hybrid in 2022. Mindru has also gained recognition as a composer and has written several works for big band, symphony orchestra and smaller ensembles. www.elenamindru.com

Juha-Pekka Mikkola (b. 1975) is an actor and musician involved in many. As an actress, he is best known for his roles in the Finnish TV series Salatut elämät, Syke and Onnela, and in the movie 21 ways to ruin a marriage. He has sung and played guitar in various bands.

When Pikku Papun Orkesteri gets together with the UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra, you get a biiiig children’s concert for the whole family at the Night of the Arts at Stoa square in Itäkeskus! Free entry!

Pikku Papu’s immensely popular hits will be heard in familiar but new versions, arranged for a big band. With over 20 members in the orchestra, there’s plenty to see and listen to: melodious and shiny trumpets, trombones and saxophones, with rhythmic piano, bass, guitar and drums. The arrangements are made by Mikko Hassinen, who also conducts the concert.

During the concert, even the little ones can join in the songs and fun. Screams of joy and dancing are allowed – even desirable!

Note! Especially with the smallest concertgoers, we recommend preparing for loud volumes with earmuffs or plugs.

Duration about 40 minutes.

In case of rain, the concert will be moved into the Stoa Cultural Centre.

Pikku Papun Orkesteri

Heli Kajo, vocals

Maiju Kopra, vocals

Juho Puronaho, guitar, mandola

Tarmo Anttila, bass

UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra

Mikko Hassinen, conductor and arrangements

Open event