Jukka Perko

Saxophone

If there is one thing that can be said with certainty about saxophonist Jukka Perko, it is his undeniable ability to create musical experiences.

Perko learned to play as he learned to speak — by listening and imitating. He describes his attitude toward playing and composing as a balancing act between striving for excellence and accepting imperfection.

Emotion and thought, the ability to communicate new ideas, the instrument as an extension of one’s body, and respect for presence. These are the elements with which Perko continues to seek music that derives its meaning from shared experience and genuine encounter. Ultimately, his playing is about music as a way of being.

PreBoppers is his new ensemble, which plays traditional jazz and classic American evergreens.

Photo: Mika Toivanen