Finnish jazz scene will have a strong representation at the major international gathering Jazzahead! again this year. Taking place 25-28 April in Bremen, Germany, the trade fair will feature a Finnish umbrella stand, where thirteen companies – agencies, record labels, PR companies, associations – have registered to promote their activities. The stand will be run by Music Finland together with the Finnish Jazz Federation.

Again this year, also the showcase programme has Finnish colour: the jury’s choice is Kokko Quartet. This recently established group plays recognizably Scandinavian jazz but draws influences from Indian, Arabic and Cuban traditions. Kokko Quartet is led by Johanna Pitkänen (piano, keys) and features Kaisa Siirala (saxophones, bansuri flute), Timo Tuppurainen (bass) and Risto Takala (drums). Their debut Like a River will be released in March. Kokko Quartet will perform at Jazzahead! on Saturday 27 April at 2.30 PM.

This year will be the 8th edition of jazzahead!. This event, which last year gathered together nearly 2300 professional participants and over 500 exhibitors, combines a trade fair, showcase festival and conference.

jazzahead!