Jazz Finland Live

Espoo Big Band (EBB) takes the stage at Sellosali with an energetic and unpredictable concert program, featuring two exceptional soloists and two impressive new works by Marzi Nyman. Both compositions are written specifically for EBB, a band Nyman knows intimately, having served as its conductor since 2012.

The second half of the evening features Portrait of a Friend, a piece Marzi Nyman composed for his close friend, pianist Lenni-Kalle Taipale. Premiered at the 2013 PianoEspoo Festival, this composition captivated both audiences and critics. According to Helsingin Sanomat, the performance was playful, soaring, and gripping – full of folk spirit and unexpected twists. Now this exuberant work returns to the stage. 

The concert opens with a brand-new piece by Nyman, composed for recorder and big band. Soloist Eero Saunamäki – a virtuoso and versatile performer – will guide the audience into fresh soundscapes.

The program promises drama and tenderness, inventive compositions, and charismatic musical personalities. An unforgettable evening awaits!

Lenni-Kalle Taipale is one of Finland’s most recognized rhythm music artists. He has led his own jazz trio since the 1990s and has had a prolific career as both composer and performer. Taipale is also known from several popular Finnish TV shows, including The Voice of Finland, Elämäni biisi, and Bumtsibum.

Eero Saunamäki is an internationally acclaimed recorder player who has performed as a soloist with dozens of symphony orchestras and premiered over 40 works. In addition to playing the recorder, he performs regularly as a saxophonist and singer and teaches at the Sibelius Academy. Many recognize him from Finland’s Independence Day gala broadcasts, where he leads the Kaartin Combo.

Espoo Big Band has been a pioneering force in Finnish jazz for over 40 years and is the resident orchestra of the April Jazz Festival. EBB is known for its distinctive sound, its commitment to supporting Finnish composers, and its collaborations with top domestic and international soloists. The band has performed at festivals as far afield as Australia, Cuba, and the United States.

Lenni-Kalle Taipale, piano
Eero Saunamäki, recorders
Marzi Nyman, conductor
Espoo Big Band