Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra will perform at the Uusi Paviljonki in Kauniainen in December 2025. UMO’s soloist will be the unique singer Vuokko Hovatta, whose deep and soulful interpretation has delighted audiences in various contexts since the 1990s.
UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra is the bright shining beacon of the Finnish jazz scene – one might even call it an iconic cultural heritage. Set your course towards the light as Vuokko Hovatta and UMO, together with the conductor Kirmo Lintinen, bring you along for a journey through time and the highlights of the history of the orchestra and Finnish big band music. The concert features some of the best works by the finest Finnish jazz composers, such as Kari Heinilä, Severi Pyysalo as well as Lintinen himself.
The concert is part of UMO’s 50th anniversary season.
During its anniversary season, the UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra brings jazz to the Finnish-Swedish regions of the country with the support of the Swedish Cultural Foundation in Finland.
Vuokko Hovatta (b. 1972) is a well-known Finnish singer and actress who has captivated audiences with her versatile skills. Hovatta became known as a member of the band Ultra Bra in the 1990s. She has since sung in, among others, Kerkko Koskinen Kollektiivi and released several solo albums. A graduate of the Uniarts Helsinki Theatre Academy, Hovatta is employed by the Helsinki City Theatre and has acted in numerous theatre, musical, film and television productions. She has also distinguished herself as a voice actress and audiobook reader. Hovatta is known for her ability to immerse herself in roles and interpret texts deeply, which makes her one of Finland’s most respected artists.
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