Savoy JAZZFest, held in March, opens its 2027 programme with two internationally acclaimed guitarists. John Scofield, one of the most significant innovators of jazz guitar, will arrive in Helsinki on his anniversary tour, while Lionel Loueke, one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary jazz, will be seen in a rare solo concert.
Savoy JAZZFest, held at Helsinki’s Savoy Theatre from 3–6 March 2027, has announced the first international guests for its programme. The festival will welcome American jazz guitarist John Scofield and Benin-born guitarist, singer and composer Lionel Loueke.
On Friday, 5 March, Savoy JAZZFest will feature three-time Grammy Award winner John Scofield, who is regarded as one of the most influential musicians in modern jazz guitar. With a career spanning more than five decades and collaborations including with Miles Davis, Scofield is known for his distinctive way of combining jazz, blues and funk, as well as his continual ability to reinvent himself.
Scofield will arrive at Savoy JAZZFest to celebrate his 75th anniversary with the Combo 75 line-up. Alongside him will perform bassist Vicente Archer, drummer Bill Stewart and pianist Gerald Clayton. The line-up brings together musicians regarded among the most respected jazz players of today. Following the Savoy concert, the group will also perform in Finland as part of the Turku Jazz Festival programme on Saturday, 6 March.
On Saturday, 6 March, the festival will feature a rare solo concert by Lionel Loueke. Born in Benin, Loueke has become one of the most distinctive guitarists and composers on the international jazz scene. In his music, West African musical traditions, modern jazz and improvisation form a recognisable whole that has made him a sought-after performer at the world’s most important concert venues and festivals.
During his career, Loueke has collaborated with, among others, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Gretchen Parlato, Sting and Angélique Kidjo. In his solo concert, he will perform alone with his guitar and voice.
Kalle Kalima: “I’m really looking forward to the March festival”
Savoy JAZZFest’s artistic director, guitarist Kalle Kalima, considers both of the performers now announced to be key jazz guitarists of their generation.
“John Scofield is one of the most significant voices in jazz over the past five decades. Lionel Loueke, meanwhile, has created a distinctive way of combining jazz with West African musical influences. I’m extremely happy that both will be coming to Savoy JAZZFest,” says Kalima.
Kalima, who is continuing in his position for a second year, is eagerly looking forward to the March festival.
“Last year’s festival left us with a really good feeling. The contact with the artists, the audience and the Savoy Theatre team was warm, and the feedback we received was positive. It’s great to be able to continue from this foundation! The programme will feature a selection of top international performers, the crème de la crème.”
The festival programme will be expanded later during the autumn and winter with announcements of new artists.
Savoy JAZZFest 3–6 March 2027
John Scofield Combo 75
Fri 5 March 2027 at 19:00
Lionel Loueke Solo
Sat 6 March at 17:30
The rest of the Savoy JAZZFest artist line-up and the festival’s accompanying programme will be announced later.
Tickets:
Tickets: €17–67
Saturday double ticket: €70
4-day festival pass: Early Bird €175 (on sale until 15 January, regular price €210).
In addition, a delivery fee will be charged depending on the sales channel.
Producer:
Savoy JAZZFest is produced by Savoy Theatre, with Sirpa Hynninen serving as the festival’s executive producer. Savoy Theatre is part of the City of Helsinki’s Culture and Leisure Division. Guitarist Kalle Kalima is serving as artistic director for the 2025–2027 period. The festival’s main partner is Hotel Haven.
Savoy JAZZFest’s Facebook page
John Scofield Combo 75: Gerald Clayton, Bill Stewart, John Scofield and Vicente Archer, photo by Nick Suttle