Finland's oldest rhythm music association Hämeenlinnan Soitannollinen Kerho ry celebrates its 80th anniversary by organizing a composition competition for young musicians under 30 years of age.
Musicians under 30 years with a connection to Hämeenlinna – e. g. through residence, studies, place of birth or family – are eligible to enter. The competition theme is open-ended, but the entries should represent rhythm music.
The compositions can be composed for two or more instruments, including electronic instruments.
The winning entries will be performed as part of Linnajazz festival 2026. The prize money will be divided as follows:
1st prize: 2000 €
2nd prize: 1000 €
3rd prize: 500 €
The competition is open until the end of November 2025. More information and instructions will be published via HSK ry's website and social media during spring 2025.
The competition has been made possible byThe Häme Regional Fund.
Hämeenlinnan Soitannollinen Kerho, HSK, (The Music Club of Hämeenlinna) is Finland's oldest rhythm music association formed in 1945. The association aims to promote rhythm music in Hämeenlinna. HSK has organised Linnajazz festival since 1991 and also manages the HSK Big Band. HSK is a founding member of the Finnish Jazz Federation.
For more information, contact:
Timo Seppälä, HSK chairperson
040 0531563
Anne Tamminen, HSK secretary
044 3822573
Picture of Mikko Viljanen's band 1946 (Mikko Viljanen, Alpo Snellman and Teuvo Suojärvi). HSK's scrapbooks/National Archive.