Savoy JAZZFest, one of the Helsinki metropolitan area’s premier jazz events, has announced additional acts for next year’s program. The festival, taking place in early March, will feature Grammy-winning jazz guitarist Bill Frisell (USA) in its Saturday closing concert. Earlier that same day, the stage at Savoy Theater will host award-winning bassist Kaisa Mäensivu’s Kaisa’s Machine, joined by renowned American tenor saxophonist Mark Turner. Tickets for Savoy JAZZFest will go on sale on Friday, November 29, at 12:00 PM via Lippu.fi.
The four-day Savoy JAZZFest has now revealed its full 2025 program, except for the opening day. The newly announced Saturday performances on March 8 include Kaisa’s Machine feat. Mark Turner (Finland/USA) and the Bill Frisell Trio feat. Thomas Morgan and Rudy Royston (USA).
Kaisa’s Machine, led by award-winning bassist and Savoy JAZZFest Artistic Director Kaisa Mäensivu, has been an established presence in the international jazz scene for nearly a decade. Mäensivu’s debut album Taking Shape will soon be followed by a new record, recorded in New York and set for release in spring 2025. This album will be performed live for the first time as part of the festival program.
For the album release concert, Mäensivu has invited Mark Turner, one of the most influential tenor saxophonists in contemporary jazz. With a career spanning decades, Turner has become a jazz institution, described by The New York Times as "the best jazz musician you’ve never heard of." The Savoy JAZZFest concert marks the first time Mäensivu and Turner will perform together. Rising jazz vocalist Maja Mannila will also make a guest appearance during the performance, alongside pianist Edin Laden, guitarist Max Light, and drummer Joe Peri.
Later that evening, the festival’s closing concert will feature Bill Frisell, one of the most respected jazz guitarists of our time. Frisell’s trio, which includes bassist Thomas Morgan and drummer Rudy Royston, will perform pieces from their latest album Valentine, along with older compositions and jazz classics. Their years of collaboration have fostered an exceptionally deep musical connection within the trio.
Bill Frisell, a Grammy winner, is renowned for blending jazz, rock, folk, and experimental music. His playing is instantly recognizable for its distinctive sound and technique, creating expansive sonic landscapes. Over his long career, Frisell has collaborated with legendary artists such as Joe Lovano, Elvis Costello, and Bonnie Raitt. He is considered a pivotal figure in modern jazz, inspiring musicians and composers alike.
Expanded Jazz Brunches at Hotel Haven
Savoy JAZZFest’s main partner, Hotel Haven, will double its popular jazz brunches next year, offering two events due to high demand. The brunches will take place on Saturday, March 8, and Sunday, March 9, from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM. Performers for the brunches will be announced in early 2025, with table reservations opening simultaneously.
Festival Artistic Direction and Production
Kaisa Mäensivu continues as the Artistic Director of Savoy JAZZFest for the third consecutive year. The festival is produced by Savoy Theater, under the Helsinki Department of Culture and Leisure. Sirpa Hynninen serves as the Executive Producer.
SAVOY JAZZFest 2025 Program (March 5–8)
Thursday, March 6
- Francesca Tandoi (Italy) / Manuel Dunkel Quintet feat. Peter Bernstein (USA)
Peter Bernstein (guitar, USA), Manuel Dunkel (tenor saxophone), Alexi Tuomarila (piano), Kaisa Mäensivu (bass), Joe Peri (drums, USA)
Time: 7:00 PM
Friday, March 7
- Lizz Wright (USA) + UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra
Time: 7:00 PM
Saturday, March 8
- Kaisa’s Machine feat. Mark Turner (Finland/USA)
Time: 5:30 PM (approx. 75 minutes, no intermission) - Bill Frisell Trio feat. Thomas Morgan and Rudy Royston (USA)
Time: 8:00 PM (approx. 75 minutes, no intermission)
Tickets
- Tickets via Lippu.fi
- Price Range: €17–€67
- 4-Day Festival Pass: Early Bird €160 (available until January 15, 2025; regular price €190) + handling fees based on delivery method.
For more information, visit the Savoy Theater website.