Harri Kuusijärvi is one of the most distinctive figures in accordion music today. He is known for his open-minded projects that push the traditional boundaries of what the accordion can achieve as an instrument.

 

Kuusijärvi approaches accordion music with an exceptionally broad perspective. His albums have been recognized across a wide spectrum of media, from classical to rock, and from jazz to world music. He has premiered numerous contemporary works for the accordion and has performed on various stages around the world. In addition to his solo projects, he is an active performer in various world music, jazz, and pop ensembles. In recent years, Kuusijärvi has focused on electroacoustic music and the development of a new, electronically augmented accordion.

 

Kuusijärvi has received several recognitions, including being named Finnish Accordion Artist of the Year in 2023, an Emma nomination for Best Classical Album in 2021, and a nomination for one of the Nordic countries' most prestigious art prizes, the Teosto Prize, in 2020. In 2011, Kuusijärvi was awarded 2nd prize in Arrasate Hiria, one of the world’s most prestigious international classical accordion competitions.

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