Pianism from the top of the world, electro-psychedelic jazz trance or entertaining big band music? All of these are served at this year's Lahden Jazztori, which brings guests to Lahti from Berlin and New York - including two Grammy-awarded artists.
The main concerts kick off on Saturday, September 24 with super lineups like RinneRadio and Tenors of Kalma. Sunday September 25 two strong trios will take the stage, presenting their own views on the possibilities of the piano trio, one of the cornerstones of jazz.
Dave Kikoski, who is influential in New York, was characterized by The Times at the beginning of last year as one of the best jazz pianists in the entire United States. The visit of a world star of this class is an event that will be remembered in Lahti many years from now. In connection with his visit to Finland, Kikoski will also perform at Porvoo Jazz and SaloJazz festivals and at Koko Jazz Club in Helsinki.
The presence of Jimi Tenor (Tenors of Kalma) and Nikita Rafaelov (Naberukh) is a nod to Lahti's music culture. Both have made their mark in Lahti. Rafaelov's pianism was admired already last autumn in the impressive Erroll Garner tribute.
Lahti Big Band has invited the multifaceted Kadi Vija to be the soloist of their bossa nova-focused concert. The entertaining ensemble will be heard on Saturday, October 1. The day is kicked off with two performances of the Max and Moritz musical. Lahti Kesännäyttämö's energetic performance has already made an impression on Jukka Linkola, who composed the musical in the 1980s.
For Saturday September 24 and for Sunday September 25 inexpensive day tickets are also for sale. The festival pass, which covers all main concerts, is the choice of the most enthusiastic fans of jazz and Jazztori. All advance tickets are sold via Tiketti.
The festival's additional program will be completed during the early autumn. There will be live music in different parts of the city, including low-threshold events.
Lahden Jazztori has been organized every year without a break since 1989. In recent years, the event has been implemented in good cooperation with the cultural services of the city of Lahti.
Photo: Dave Kikoski © G. Khamatov