April Jazz turns 40, bringing a wave of sound to Espoo and Helsinki with musicians from around the world. Here are a few picks to spark your spring.
Espoo and Helsinki will resonate with music as April Jazz celebrates its 40th anniversary alongside the rich 100-year legacy of Finnish jazz.
Over the span of 11 days, nearly 200 musicians from 17 different countries will grace stages across the capital region.
We picked a few highlights to jazz up your spring.
Dee Dee Bridgewater & Espoo Big Band
Three-time Grammy Award winner Dee Dee Bridgewater will enchant audiences as the soloist with the Espoo Big Band at the opening concert.
Date: April 15, 2026
Time: 19:00
Location: Espoo Cultural Centre, Tapiola Hall (Kulttuuriaukio 2, Espoo)
Mikko Innanen / Kirke Karja / Antti Lötjönen / Christian Lillinger
Finnish saxophonist Mikko Innanen and bassist Antti Lötjönen collaborated with Estonian pianist Kirke Karja and German drummer Christian Lillinger in 2024. Their initial meeting yielded strong chemistry, prompting continued collaboration. At April Jazz, the quartet will showcase their evolving music, blending original compositions and free improvisation.
Date: April 21, 2026
Time: 19:45 (The ticket grants access to two performances. At 18:00, the Ebel pop/jazz program at the Espoo Music Academy will feature talented young musicians.)
Location: Espoo Cultural Centre, Tapiola Hall (Kulttuuriaukio 2, Espoo)
Dhafer Youssef: ‘Shiraz’
Born in Tunisia, Dhafer Youssef is a celebrated musician blending Sufi tradition and Arabic tones with jazz, chamber music and electronic influences. His upcoming concert, which is based on his latest album Shiraz at Tapiola Hall marks his first performance in Finland’s capital. He will be joined by young European musicians, including pianist Daniel Garcia, bassist Swaeli Mbapp, trumpeter Mario Rom, and drummer Tao Ehrlich.
Date: April 22, 2026
Time: 18:00
Location: Espoo Cultural Centre, Tapiola Hall (Kulttuuriaukio 2, Espoo)
Tigran Hamasyan: ‘Manifeste’
Tigran Hamasyan, a unique pianist and composer, returns to Finland with his album Manifeste, blending Armenian singing traditions with jazz, progressive rock and ritualistic intensity. His latest album features collaborations with notable musicians and showcases a mix of Armenian roots, choral textures, and spiritual themes. Joining him on stage will be Yessai Karapetian (keyboards), Marc Karapetian (bass) and Arman Mnatsakanyan (drums).
Date: April 24, 2026
Time: 21:00
Location: Korjaamo Culture Factory, Tram Hall
Alain Perez y la Orquesta
Alain Perez is a multi-talented musician known for blending traditional Cuban rhythms with modern jazz and flamenco. His career includes Grammy and Latin Grammy wins. At Korjaamo, he will take the stage with a 12-piece orchestra.
Date: April 25, 2026
Time: 21:00
Location: Korjaamo Culture Factory, Tram Hall
