This morning I sat in on two doctoral candidate auditions The audition panel consisted of faculty members , The principal of the University, A national music treasure and the current head of jazz studies. Following the performance, the candidates discussed their desired dissertation projects and ambitions. After the candidates were dismissed, the panel discussed each audition at length. In the end both candidates were accepted. (more…)
Read more
At 9:30 am Mikko met me at the hotel and we took a scenic walk to the Historic Torni hotel that overlooks Helsinki with a breathtaking view over the water where you can see where the cruise ships dock and most of the historic landmarks. It’s gorgeous in the spring, I hear that it is even prettier weather breaks and the foliage greens. We had a delicious breakfast of croissants, fruit, salmon juices, a strawberry smoothie and coffee. We then stopped at one of the buildings designed by the famous artist Alvar Aalto. I took a picture of a famous door handle of his design. (more…)
Read more
I visited the Sibelius Academy and toured the jazz, folk and education departments with Jari Perkiomaki. I met Jyrki Tenni (head of education program) who also teaches piano accompaniment for jazz and popular music. I had lunch at the town hall with the Deputy Mayor and Janne Murto (principal of the Pop and Jazz Conservatory) after having coffee on the Helsinki downtown waterfront restaurant ship. (more…)
Read more
I was met at the Helsinki airport by my host for the week ”Jari“ and taken to the beautiful Haven hotel where I was checked in and freshened up. At five pm I am to experience the 1st of my traditional events at a private sauna . From there I’ll go back to the hotel for a relaxing evening. The hotel Haven is a luxury facility with the comforts of home and more. I am truly spoiled (more…)
Read more
