Kęstutis Vaiginis & Joonas Haavisto “Moon Bridge”

On November 21, we welcome jazz enthusiasts to Paliesius Manor to hear Lithuanian saxophonist Kęstutis Vaiginis, Finnish pianist Joonas Haavisto, and their debut album, “Moon Bridge”!

This world-renowned saxophone and piano duo presents a unique, compelling sound that blends tranquil melodies with virtuosic improvisation. Their music is inspired by Nordic harmonies and Baltic melancholy, lending it a special atmosphere and emotional depth. Having played together for more than 15 years, the musicians have forged a powerful musical bond that reveals itself in every performance.

Their debut album, “Moon Bridge,” was released in the spring of 2024 by the prestigious Japanese label Eight Islands. The album features original compositions by both artists as well as new interpretations of works by Wayne Shorter and Billy Strayhorn. Their musical journey leads from a sacred serenity to wild, cascading improvisation, while crystal-clear melodies and Baltic melancholy create a rich, expressive dialogue.

The album has garnered international acclaim and earned the highest praise from prestigious jazz publications in Great Britain and Japan. “A wonderful album, full of great compositions and flawless musicianship,” stated *Jazzwise* magazine in its “Editor’s Choice” for June 2024. Meanwhile, the March 2024 issue of *Jaz.in* magazine wrote that “these two talented musicians can be considered the successors to Wayne Shorter.” The album was also noted among the year’s best jazz albums by LRT.

Kęstutis Vaiginis and Joonas Haavisto are both musicians with exceptional international careers. Kęstutis Vaiginis has collaborated with jazz legends, including David Kikoski, Jonathan Blake, Alex Sipiagin, Boris Kozlov, and Mike Stern. His performances have graced the most renowned jazz festivals, such as North Sea Jazz, Tokyo Jazz, and Jarasum Jazz, as well as the prestigious Blue Note Jazz Club in New York. Joonas Haavisto, an acclaimed Steinway Artist, has toured worldwide with his trio, appearing on such legendary stages as the Blue Note Jazz Club in New York and the Tokyo Jazz Festival in Japan. Together, their music transcends boundaries, creating a deep, immersive experience that captivates jazz listeners across the globe.