The Artistic Leader for Korpo Sea Jazz 2027 festival

29.7.2026

Jussi Lehtonen is one of the leading figures in Finnish jazz. An internationally acclaimed drummer, composer, bandleader and educator, he has built a distinguished career both as a performing artist and as a dedicated advocate for the development of jazz. His distinctive musical voice combines sensitivity, a deep sense of swing and uncompromising artistry.
Throughout his career, Lehtonen has performed and recorded with many of Finland’s foremost jazz musicians, while also collaborating with internationally renowned artists including Dave Liebman, Randy Brecker, Tim Hagans and Mike Stern. As a band leader, he has released several critically acclaimed albums showcasing his original compositions and his distinctive vision of contemporary jazz.
In 2018, Lehtonen received the Yrjö Award, Finland’s most prestigious recognition in jazz, in acknowledgement of his outstanding contribution to Finnish jazz. Alongside his performing career, he serves as Senior Lecturer in Jazz Drums at the Sibelius Academy of the University of the Arts Helsinki, where he mentors the next generation of jazz musicians and plays an active role in shaping the future of Finnish jazz.
Jussi Lehtonen has been appointed artistic director of the 2027 Korpo Sea Jazz Festival. His extensive experience as a performer, composer and educator, together with his strong connections within both the Finnish and international jazz communities, provide an excellent foundation for next summer’s festival. Under Lehtonen’s artistic direction, Korpo Sea Jazz will continue to bring together outstanding jazz and the unique beauty of the archipelago while looking confidently towards the future.