Finnish Jazz Federation's Yrjö Award was given to bassist Antti Lötjönen on November 1st. The Taimi Award, introduced last year, aimed at young musicians, was given to singer, pianist and violinist instrumentalist Helmi Antila.

Yrjö Awards, the most prestigious recognitions in the Finnish jazz scene were awarded at the Tampere Jazz Happening on Friday, November 1st. The award has been presented since 1967 to a distinguished Finnish jazz musician. In previous years, the award has been granted to trumpeter Jukka Eskola (2022), drummer Mikko Hassinen (2021), saxophonist Timo Lassy (2020), pianist Riitta Paakki (2019) and saxophonist Linda Fredriksson.

This year's winner, bassist Antti Lötjönen, was characterised by award jury member Jari Perkiömäki as follows:

"Lötjönen's impressive number of recordings and performances, both with his own band and with various bandleaders, is a testament to his stylistic versatility, strong voice, and playing, which supports and listens to other musicians"

Antti Lötjönen has been at the forefront of Finnish jazz for over 20 years. Lötjönen has performed in over 30 countries and his playing can be heard on over 100 recordings, including ones as a member of the Ilmiliekki Quartet, Verneri Pohjola Quartet, The Five Corners Quintet, Aki Rissanen Trio, Mikko Innanen Autonomus, Timo Lassy Band, Ricky-Tick Big Band, and Seppo Kantonen Trio. Lötjönen gained international attention in 2018 when he toured Europe with the trio of five-time Grammy winner and drummer legend Jeff “Tain” Watts. Lötjönen composes for his own Antti Lötjönen Quintet East, among others.

Taimi Award presented for the second time

Finnish Jazz Federation's Taimi Award, introduced last year, is presented to a young musician who passionately develops their musical expression. The award aims to encourage young talents in their bold quest for their unique voice. The second Taimi Award was granted to singer, pianist and violinist instrumentalist Helmi Antila. The Award includes the opportunity to perform at three Finnish jazz festivals.

Yle Jazz Radio's “Shadow Yrjö” recognition went to promoter and musician Olle Ekman, known for the Ekman Jazz Club, founded in 1997, and home to nearly 1,400 jazz events.

The awards were presented at Tampere's Pakkahuone on November 1, 2024. The event and Antti Lötjönen's concert were part of the official programme of Tampere Jazz Happening and Jazz Finland’s member assembly National Jazz Days (Valtakunnalliset Jazzpäivät).