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Tomi Nikku

Tomi Nikku is a Helsinki-based trumpet player, composer, bandleader and educator who has become known as one of the most active Finnish instrumentalists of his generation.

Nikku leads his quintet, Tomi Nikku 5tet, and works as a sideman with numerous innovative bands like Alder Ego, Maxxxtet, Bowman Trio, Maan Tila, UXILA EXILE, and Sointi Jazz Orchestra, to name a few. Along with the small group playing Nikku works as a freelance musician in various settings and styles. He has performed as a featuring soloist with UMO Helsinki Jazz Orchestra and has earned his Master’s degree in music at the Sibelius Academy of the University of the Arts.

Nikku’s style of playing and writing derives from his personality, life experience, and worldview. He values honesty, sincerity, and creativity and strives to cherish those traits while making music. That results in his nuanced and expressive sound on the trumpet.

Awards

The Rising Talent Of The Year, Pori Jazz Festival 2021 The Best Soloist, Corendon International Big Band Competition 2018

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Tomi Nikku

“Bowman Trio has young trumpeter Nikku in a more conventional and melodic mood than with Alder Ego – but reinforcing the impression of a talent worth watching.” -London Jazz News 22.8.2018 / Peter Slavid

“Bouncing "The Chase" (Bowman Trio) would get any party started, while the jazz enthusiast will feel a smirk creeping up when the walking bass line drops and the trumpet goes on a short yet poignant exploration that is reminiscent of Dizzy Gillespie.” -All About Jazz 16.12.2019 / Friedrich Kunzmann

“Every solo the men (Tomi Nikku & Jarno Tikka) blow makes the composition even better.” -Written In Music 20.7.2021 / Dick Hovenga