Jazz Finland Live

Pekka Pohjola (1952-2008), a legendary bassist and composer, is known for his wonderful instrumental compositions for big bands, symphony orchestras and, of course, for his long-standing Pekka Pohjola Group. Pohjola had already composed several vocal numbers during his time with Wigwam. However, most of his pieces are purely instrumental. Finland's leading lyricists, such as Mariska, Paula Vesala, Jarkko Martikainen and Jukka Kuoppamäki, have now written lyrics for Pohjola's most famous instrumental pieces.

Pohjola was one of the definitive figures of the Finnish prog rock. Pohjola was also an internationally renowned artist, with such international groups and stars as Abba, Mike Oldfield and Frank Zappa seeking to collaborate with him. During his career Pohjola released 16 albums, and in 2004 he was awarded the Yrjö prize by the Finnish Jazz Federation. 

Lauri Porra, bassist for Stratovarius, steps into the big boots of Pohjola in this concert. The rest of the band consists of Pohjola's old band mates Seppo Tyni and Markku Kanerva (guitars), Jussi Liski and Timo Vesajoki (keys), Anssi Nykänen (drums) and Veli Kujala (accordion), with Pekka's son, trombonist Ilmari Pohjola and aunt, pianist Liisa Pohjola. As vocalists feature, among others, Jonna Geagea, Sami Saari, Mariska, Tapio Liinoja, Pasi Rantanen (Thunderstone), Jukka Gustavson (Wigwam) and Ilmari Pohjola. 

The programme has been drawn up by Pekka's older son, top trumpeter Verneri Pohjola, Jussi Liski and Lauri Porra with journalist Petri Nevalainen the author of Pohjola's biography, Bassokenraali.

Produced by Eastway Live and Savoy-teatteri.

Tickets: 38/34 € at Lippupalvelu.

Open event