Jazz scene and music shops in Finland

[tubbycub]

Hey guys,

Does anyone know if there are such places in Espoo, Helsinki?

Maybe Harri can assist?

Thanks in advance :)

[hafuch]

I, too, would love to see an answer to this question.

The only places I've been able to find in my time here are the Juttutupa (in Helsinki, near Hakaniemi), which sometimes has jazz performances, and a place on the southwestern corner where Sturenkatu and Mäkelänkatu meet (again in Helsinki, near Vallila). I forget the name of the place, but it has a green sign in the window and says something along the lines of Jazz Café. I often see it in the window as I pass by on the bus. I've been meaning to visit this place for some time now, but with my limited spare time I just haven't gotten around to it yet.

Occasionally things appear in other parts of the city. You just kind of have to keep a look out in the Nyt section of the Helsingin Sanomat or in the Hufvhudsdagbladet.

Of course, there is always Storyville, located in Helsinki on Mannerheiminkatu near the parliament building (eduskunta), if that is your thing. I've heard good things about it on occasion, though I've never been to it. My wife has been there once, however, and enjoyed it very much.

I could also add that the Umo Jazz group plays in a place called Gloria (I think) on Iso (or Pieni? Can't remember exactly) Robertinkatu in downtown Helsinki. That sees more big band and mainstream-type jazz.

I've also heard of a place called Pomodoro, or something like that, where (at least I think) they occasionally hold jam sessions. I actually have no idea where it is or what is going on there, but thought I'd mention it. I just haven't had the time to explore it much, but if you can, please report back to us and let us know what's happening there.

I hope this helps you, though I must apologize for its vagueness. I just don't have a lot of spare time to explore all these things, so take these suggestions with a grain of salt, bearing in mind that I am not exactly "in the know" as far as places like this are concerned.

Of course, all the places I have mentioned are located in Helsinki; I've NO idea what's going on in Espoo, other than the annual April Jazz Festival held there, and am not even sure there's anything happening there to begin with. I do know that jazz is reasonably popular here, and is becoming more so. That is good news.

In any case, it's a place to start.

Good luck, and let us know what you find.

Kind regards,

Hafuch