Northbound

Iro Haarla is a celebrated Finnish pianist and composer, renowned for her significant contributions to the world of free jazz. With a career spanning several decades, Haarla has established herself as one of the leading figures in Finnish jazz, captivating audiences with her reflective and redemptive music. Her fascination with the works of Carla Bley, cultivated during her studies with Heikki Sarmanto in the early 1970s, has deeply influenced her unique musical style. Haarla's collaborations with notable artists such as Trygve Seim and Juhani Aaltonen have resulted in a rich tapestry of sound, characterized by lyrical solos and expansive compositions. Her work with the late Edward Vesala's Sound and Fury ensemble further cemented her reputation as a versatile and innovative musician. Whether performing solo or with her ensemble, Iro Haarla's music offers a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant experience.