At the Night of the Arts at Stoa square in Itäkeskus – free entry!
The UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra, jazz vocalist Elena Mindru and actor-vocalist Juha-Pekka Mikkola serve a full range of fascinating music familiar from radio playlists and movies in big band versions.
What does a funk version of Beyoncé’s Crazy In Love sound like? How about Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You as Latin jazz? Not to mention Harry Styles’ Watermelon Sugar, which has been bent into a very sweet rendition by a 16-piece orchestra! The songs have been arranged respecting the different styles and eras of jazz, from blues to salsa and swing. The program also includes a few jazz classics from decades ago. The conductor is Mikko Hassinen.
Duration about 1 h.
In case of rain, the concert will be moved into the Stoa Cultural Centre.
Elena Mindru (b. 1988) is one of the best Finnish jazz singers. Known for her charismatic performances and improvisations, Mindru regularly performs as a soloist with large orchestras in both her home countries, Finland and Romania, among other countries. She has published five jazz albums under her own name, the latest Hybrid in 2022. Mindru has also gained recognition as a composer and has written several works for big band, symphony orchestra and smaller ensembles. www.elenamindru.com
Juha-Pekka Mikkola (b. 1975) is an actor and musician involved in many. As an actress, he is best known for his roles in the Finnish TV series Salatut elämät, Syke and Onnela, and in the movie 21 ways to ruin a marriage. He has sung and played guitar in various bands.
Photo: Olli Nurmi