The Mission of the Finnish Jazz Federation is More Important Than Ever

When the Finnish Jazz Federation (Suomen Jazzliitto) was founded in 1966, its primary objectives were to draw the attention of official bodies to jazz music and to educate the general public. At that time, it was necessary to highlight the clear marginalization of jazz in official music policy compared to the recognized status of concert music.

In nearly sixty years, a great deal has changed in this regard. Jazz education has become an integral part of music schools and other institutions, thanks to the pioneering work of the Oulunkylä Pop & Jazz Conservatory and the training program initiated by the Sibelius Academy in 1983. Since the 1980s, the Jazz Federation has grown into a significant organization for producing concerts and tours, now comprising around fifty member associations.

However, the Jazz Federation’s role in advocating for jazz in society is no less important today than it was in the 1960s. While many aspects have improved, and the level and diversity of Finnish jazz have risen remarkably on the international stage, there is still much to develop in the fundamental structures. Musicians largely have to rely on sporadic and temporary grants, a situation that has become even more apparent now, as budget cuts take a toll on the entire freelance cultural sector.

Thanks to the active efforts of musicians, Helsinki has seen the rise of several venues and jam sessions where live jazz can be heard almost every day of the week. This grassroots activity is crucial in sustaining and developing jazz culture – yet these gigs generate little ticket revenue, meaning that musicians’ fees remain modest.

As Finnish jazz celebrates its 100-year history next year, it is time to fully appreciate the richness and quality of our national jazz scene. In this sense, the original mission of the Jazz Federation remains as relevant as ever. Additionally, its scope has expanded to include improving accessibility, diversity, and environmental awareness in jazz activities. The Federation is already actively working on these issues through various projects, both domestically and internationally.

The political climate in Finland and around the world has become harsher, and funding for the arts and organizations is being cut drastically. As I write this in January, it remains unclear how much the Jazz Federation will receive operational funding for this year. If significant cuts occur, they will inevitably affect core activities, such as organizing tours and concerts – especially since administrative and other expenses have already been reduced as much as possible over the past couple of years. However, in tough times, the response should not be despair but rather an even stronger mobilization of the entire cultural sector. The Jazz Federation is well-connected and actively collaborates with other cultural organizations. It is also inspiring to see that, despite competing for the same limited performance opportunities, jazz musicians are coming together to advocate for the common good. In this, the Jazz Federation can further strengthen its role as a supporter of musicians.

Jari Perkiömäki
Chairperson
Finnish Jazz Federation

Jari Perkiömäki began serving as Chair of the Finnish Jazz Federation’s Board at the start of 2025. Perkiömäki works as a lecturer in jazz music at the Sibelius Academy of the University of the Arts Helsinki and has also served as the university’s rector.