Maunula Jazz

Maunula House is once again showcasing the latest trends in jazz and improvised music as part of Maunula Jazz, which is open to all ages and free of charge. This evening, Metsäpurosali Hall features the musical drama Billy Strayhorn herää henkiin (‘Billy Strayhorn Comes to Life’), which sheds light on the life and music of the pianist, composer and arranger known as Duke Ellington’s right-hand man. The script was written by ‘Jazz Pastor’ Markku Salo, and the music is brought to life by singer Selma Savolainen, saxophonist Mikko Innanen and pianist Seppo Kantonen. Bringing the energy of the younger generation to the evening is Aaron Koskelainen Stampede, whose powerful debut album Daylight Gives a Chase was released at the end of 2025. The event is closed by the brand-new Sami Pekkola Quartet, led by saxophonist Sami Pekkola – known for his work with the Oaagaada and Oiro Pena ensembles, among others – who play free jazz with a collective approach. The event is free of charge and open to all ages. The café serves visitors in the lobby. Both the lobby and the hall feature alcohol serving areas available to adults. Billy Strayhorn herää henkiin – Billy Strayhorn Comes to Life Lush Life! Chelsea Bridge! Star-Crossed Lovers! Day Dream! What the Lennon–McCartney duo were to pop music, Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn were to jazz. Their work resulted in a wealth of timeless compositions – to be interpreted by future generations as well. Not much is known about the life of pianist and composer Billy Strayhorn (1917–1982). In his everyday life, Strayhorn found himself having to navigate life as a member of a sexual minority in the shadow of mainstream culture. How was this reflected in his music and his life? Billy Strayhorn herää henkiin presents jazz classics in new Finnish arrangements in a musical drama that sheds light on Strayhorn’s life and music. (Duration: roughly 80 min) Mikko Innanen – alto and baritone saxophone & recitation Seppo Kantonen – piano & recitation Jazz Pastor Markku Salo – script & recitation Selma Savolainen – vocals & recitation Arrangements: Innanen – Kantonen – Savolainen Aaron Koskelainen Stampede Aaron Koskelainen Stampede is a band formed in 2022 that performs music composed by double bassist Aaron Koskelainen. The band draws heavily on improvisation and the tradition of free jazz, approaching music with an open-minded attitude. A strong and distinctive combination is produced by the forceful sound of two tenor saxophones, drums, and bass. The band released its first album in late 2025. Risto Kauppinen – tenor saxophone Olavi Stanek – tenor saxophone Aaron Koskelainen – doub Photo: Maunula-talo

Event data: City of Helsinki Linked Events, CC BY 4.0.

Source: City of Helsinki Linked Events (CC BY 4.0) — https://tapahtumat.hel.fi/en/events/helsinki:agpkl7e23u