True to its name, AVARA (spacious in English, umfangreich auf Deutsch) has a spacious approach to music. With a unique instrumentation, the trio blends the themes and solos together, while transforming powerful narratives into delightful stories. In their music, classic beauty ideals are present, but the direction is more towards the future than the past.

Although AVARA’s music is driven by an inherent melancholy, it offers its listeners unreserved hope at the same time. Their goal is to meet the listener with an expression that rises from the deep. The trio consists of Jukka Perko (saxophone), Teemu Viinikainen (guitar), and Jarmo Saari (guitar).

Saxophonist Jukka Perko was already a remarkable instrumentalist in jazz circles at a young age, and in 1987, he was invited to join the orchestra of legendary trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie’s 70th anniversary tour. After two years in Gillespie’s band, Perko is known for his numerous successful bands and his extensive repertoire as a guest soloist for big bands and symphony orchestras. Music ois Jukka Perko’s way of existing. He has learned to play as well as to speak, by listening and imitating.

In Teemu Viinikainen’s playing, expressiveness, swing and virtuosity are central elements. These qualities, as well as Viinikainen’s unique ability to make different ensembles flourish musically, have made him the most sought-after jazz guitarist in Finland. Viinikainen has studied guitar with renowned teachers such as Pat Metheny and Wayne Krantz.

Jarmo Saari is one of the most distinctive guitarists of his generation. He has realized his musical visions e.g. performing in numerous ensembles, working as an artistic producer on the studio albums of several Finnish artists, and composing music or films, theater, contemporary works and television. His career includes around 100 recordings and performances in 30 countries.