The Musicians' Union has awarded musician Aki Hauru with the first Nyrkki Award for his significant work for the benefit of musicians and the entire music industry.
Musician Aki Hauru has been protesting in front of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health since 15 February 2021. He has tirelessly, resolutely and innovatively highlighted the losses in the music industry and demanded appropriate compensation for musicians to survive the biggest crisis of its kind. At the same time, Hauru has promoted the social visibility and understanding of musicianship.
Freelancer guitarist Aki Hauru is known from the bands Django Collective Helsinki, Mustarastas, Tia Cohen and Soul Sisters, among others. In addition to guitar, Hauru, who performs in live ensembles and recordings, plays mandolin, bouzouki and drums. He also works as a recorder, producer and mixer.
The Musicians' Union awards Aki Hauru the first Nyrkki Award (’fist’) of its kind for Hauru’s significant work for the benefit of the musician community and the music industry as a whole.
Watch the awards ceremony from this MTV Uutiset clip.
With the Nyrkki Award, the Musicians’ Union rewards activism and actions that advance the cause of music performers. The award has been made by visual artist Jani Leinonen and has been cast from the fist of musician Aki Hauru.
The award was presented by Ahti Vänttinen, President of the Musicians' Union, and Maria Veitola, Content Director of Radio Helsinki, on Thursday, April 22 in front of the House of the Estates in Helsinki.
Photo of Ahti Vänttinen, Aki Hauru, Jani Leinonen and Maria Veitola.