The theme of the opening night is the importance of marine research

16.6.2023

Turku Sea Jazz kicks off with a free event in the magnificent setting of Cathedral Park Terrace on Wednesday, July 26, at 6 PM in collaboration with the John Nurminen Foundation. The evening will be opened by the “house band” of the Archipelago Sea Jazz festival series, led by clarinet master Antti Sarpila. During the concert intermission at 7 PM, a Baltic Sea-themed panel discussion will take place, featuring expert guests discussing the significance of marine research.

In the ‘Unknown Baltic Sea’ panel discussion, the focus will be on delving into the underwater world of the Baltic Sea and its exploration. There is still much unknown about the Baltic Sea, and it is difficult to protect what we do not know. What secrets does our sea hold? Why is Baltic Sea research particularly important now, and how do those working to save the sea utilize the knowledge gained?

Discussing the state of the Baltic Sea, research, and efforts for the benefit of our sea are Jari Hänninen, Director of the Archipelago Research Institute; Saara-Sofia Sirén (National Coalition Party), Member of Parliament; Eeva Tähtikarhu, Project Manager at the John Nurminen Foundation; and Pia Juhola, a teacher at Wäinö Aaltonen School along with her students, which participated as the first Finnish educational institution in an international sustainable development education program. The discussion will be moderated by Säde Mäkipää, Communications Specialist at the John Nurminen Foundation.

In a maritime atmosphere, the evening will also feature the quintet Archipelago Sea Jazz All Stars. Clarinetist Antti Sarpila, one of the most beloved Finnish jazz musicians, leads a quintet comprising influential jazz figures from the Turku, Åland, and Archipelago Sea regions. Trumpet will be played by Fredrik Erlandsson, Chairman of Åland Sea Jazz; piano by Jussi Fredriksson, Artistic Director of Turku Sea Jazz; percussion by Bosse Mellberg, Chairman of Korpo Sea Jazz; and bass by Vesku Saloranta, also known for his work with Turku Jazz Orchestra. The band’s cheerful swing will transport listeners to the golden age of jazz, infused with the melodies of the archipelago.

Please note that the event is subject to weather conditions. Any changes will be announced on the social media channels and website of Turku Sea Jazz and Cathedral Park Terrace.

You can support John Nurminen Foundation’s important work in the Baltic Sea at the ticket office of all Archipelago Sea Jazz series events at Tiketti.