Timo Lassy & Niko Kumpuvaara

Timo Lassy and Niko Kumpuvaara’s jazz is characterised by world music and sensitivity. The concert is part of the Jazz in Finland 100 centenary celebrations.

The acoustic duo of Timo Lassy and Niko Kumpuvaara brings out the rich hues of the saxophone and the accordion in an intimate manner. The duo’s playing incorporates jazz and world music influences with the sensitive expression of chamber music. In addition to their own compositions, their repertoire includes music by Egberto Gismonti, Astor Piazzolla and Pat Metheny.

Composer and saxophonist Timo Lassy is one of Finland’s best-known jazz musicians with a strong international career. Lassy first came to the public’s attention as a member of The Five Corners Quintet, and he has since performed at some of Finland’s most prestigious venues and released several albums.

The other half of the duo,Niko Kumpuvaara, is a versatile and innovative accordionist who has performed both contemporary classical and popular music. He has premiered works by Finnish composers and has played with acts such as the Dallapé orchestra and the Comics in Concert ensemble, which combines comic art and music.