Veli Kujala

Veli Kujala is a renowned Finnish accordionist and composer, born in 1976. He is celebrated for his interpretations of contemporary music and his contributions to classical and jazz genres. Kujala completed his Doctor of Music degree with distinction from the Sibelius Academy in 2010. He has performed with numerous ensembles, including the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra and the Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra, and has worked with prominent conductors such as Stefan Asbury and Hannu Lintu. His compositional style spans a wide range of genres, from electro-acoustic to orchestral works. Kujala has also been recognized for his work in jazz and improvisation, collaborating with notable musicians like Frank Gratkowski and Evan Parker.

As a composer, Kujala's works include pieces like "Hyperorganism," which was nominated for the best Finnish classical album in 2016. He received the "Contemporary Composer of the Year" award in 2020 from the Finnish Music Publishers Association. Currently, he is the head of the classical accordion department at the Sibelius Academy and continues to perform globally, showcasing his talent in both classical and crossover music contexts.

Genres