Finland
Matti has been the executive director of Espoo Big Band association since 2011. In addition to administrative and financial operations, he serves as the artistic director for the April Jazz Festival, April Jazz Club, and the Espoo Big Band. With over 20 years of experience as an all-around freelance musician, his versatile background greatly aids in carrying out these responsibilities.
The April Jazz Festival, now in its 38th year, stands as the largest jazz festival in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area, scheduled for April 19th to April 28th, 2024, across Espoo and Helsinki. The festival’s program showcases a diverse range of Finnish and international jazz artists.
Established in 2016, the April Jazz Club regularly hosts local and international artists in Espoo approximately every other Friday.
The Espoo Big Band (EBB) ranks among Finland’s top jazz orchestras. EBB boasts an impressive track record, having performed at renowned jazz festivals worldwide, including North Sea Jazz, Detroit, Montreux, and Paris. Each year, the association organizes a series of clinics and workshops during the festival, led by prominent jazz masters. Additionally, they run a jazz camp for big bands composed of young musicians, who receive instruction from seasoned big band professionals over the weekend.
