The Kainuu and North Ostrobothnia Art Prize will be awarded in Kuhmo Hall today, Wednesday, in connection with the Piirpauken concert.
Sakari Kukko, who turned 70 this year, began his musical career in Kajaani at a young age. He studied a wide range of musical genres, including the Kajaani Military Brass Band, summer courses in Orivei and at the Sibelius Academy.
Kukko now lives in Kuhmo.
According to the jury, travelling abroad has been an important part of Kuko’s career, as it has allowed him to explore the musical cultures of different countries and interact with different kinds of musicians.
In 1974, Kukko founded the band Piirpauke, which became the most popular instrumental band in Finland, combining folk music, jazz and progressive rock.
Kuko was awarded the Golden Gospel award in 2009.
The Art Committee of Pohjois Ostrobothnia and Kainuu is the expert body of the Art Promotion Center, which decides on grants and art awards for its region. The art prize is awarded annually to a distinguished artist of the region, an association operating in the art field or another community. The award is a recognition of the meritorious and significant work of the current year. It can also be awarded for long-term and meritorious life work or activities.
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