Style, skill and feeling – this evening is all about music and glamour!
London-based jazz singer Emma Smith joins the UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra as guest soloist in October. The concert is part of UMO’s 50th anniversary season.
Emma Smith is one of the brightest stars on today’s UK jazz scene, with a career on a sharp upward trajectory. She is known for her exceptionally magnificent and versatile voice, which spans traditional jazz and scat through to soul and blues. Smith is a captivating performer – both a refined interpreter and a fearless improviser. Smith is known as an artist who highlights feminine power and women’s rights. She has an original take on many jazz classics, especially from a woman’s perspective. The concerts will feature Smith’s interpretation of beloved songs by, among others, Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan and Thad Jones. The concert will be conducted by Teemu Takanen.
The Savoy Theatre concert: Deeper into the show discussion event about concert in Restaurant Minne at 6:15 PM. Conversation is in English.
Emma Smith has performed with the hugely popular ensemble Postmodern Jukebox and collaborated with music legends such as Michael Bublé, Robbie Williams, Quincy Jones and Gregory Porter. Smith leads her own ensemble and released her debut album a few of years ago. She has earned multiple nominations and awards, including the Parliamentary Jazz Award, the Montreux Jazz Voice Competition and the London Music Awards’ Rising Star Award. The most observant jazz fans may remember her as the soloist in Quincy!, the joint concert by UMO and the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra in spring 2024. www.emmasmithmusic.co.uk
UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra – The Greatest Feats since 1975. Get ready to groove as we mark 50 years of achievements and mastery in jazz! UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra celebrates its 50th anniversary season from summer 2025 to spring 2026. Throughout these decades, the orchestra has been at the forefront of Finnish jazz. Over the years, UMO has recorded over 60 albums, received Yrjö and Emma prizes, and even a Grammy nomination. The orchestra has shared the stage with international jazz stars as well as Finnish artists. One thing remains constant: the core of UMO is in new music. Join us for our anniversary season to look back on the past and celebrate our achievements, all while keeping our eyes firmly on the exciting future ahead. Come and celebrate together with the UMO! www.umohelsinki.fi
Photo: Veronica Marx