Jazz Finland Live

Sarastus (dawn) is a promise of the light, hope and new beginning after darkness. The group is formed by three musicians with different backgrounds. Vocalist Kristiina Olanto was born into a Karelian musical family. Her parents were performing artists and Kristiina began singing with her family from a very early age. No wonder she started studying singing and musical theatre. Kristiina has established herself as a versatile artist, whose singing can be heard in many types of concerts, from churches to jazz evenings.

Harri Taittonen plays the piano and organ. In addition to Jyväskylä Conservatory, he has been studying music at the Jazz & Pop Conservatory. One of the original members in the legendary Q. Stone, Taittonen has also recorded with many Finnish artists including Erja Lyytinen and Sakari Löytty.

Saxophones, bass clarinet and different types of flutes are Jorma Tapio's expertise. Free improvisation and experimental soundscapes are his special interests. Tapio belongs unarguably to the cream of Finnish saxophonists. He leads his own group, Kaski, and is the leading figure in the re-activated Sound & Fury, the group started by the legendary drummer Edward Vesala.

In the concert, Sarastus will play negrospirituals, hymns, the sacred songs of Duke Ellington and folk songs. The common denominator is improvisation and personal interpretation. Every performance is unique and born in the moment.

Kristiina Olanto, vocals
Harri Taittonen, piano
Jorma Tapio, saxophones, flutes

Tickets 10/5 €