Kertu Aer 4 (Estonia–Norway–Sweden) • Jazzkaar 2025

Named Estonian Young Jazz Talent 2024, the gifted composer, electric bassist, and double bassist Kertu Aer has quickly become a prominent figure in the Norwegian jazz scene. Following a brief hiatus, she reunites her international quartet, Kertu Aer 4, to bring fresh and exciting compositions to the Jazzkaar audience. Aer’s music seamlessly combines classical influences, traditional jazz, pop elements, and the crisp, atmospheric qualities of Nordic jazz. With youthful energy and enthusiasm, the quartet embraces risk-taking and improvisation, creating a vibrant and dynamic musical experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the winds of change shaping the future of jazz! 

With a classical foundation that includes 13 years of piano studies, Kertu Aer transitioned to double bass, studying in the rhythm music programme at the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy before refining her craft at Sweden’s Skurups Folkhögskola. In recent years, she has been based in Norway, studying at the renowned NTNU Jazzlinja. Aer is involved in several ensembles, including pianist Sondre Moshagen’s Lightning Trio, which won both the Norwegian Young Jazz Musicians of the Year title and the prestigious Jazzintro competition. This spring, in addition to performing at Jazzkaar, Aer will take the stage at the Trondheim Jazzfest with celebrated Norwegian musicians Espen Berg and Håkon Mjåset Johansen, as well as British saxophonist Emma Rawicz. With a rich vocabulary in both traditional and Nordic jazz, Aer emphasises improvisation and risk-taking in her music. As a dynamic and forward-thinking artist, she is helping to shape the future sound of jazz. 

Kertu Aer arrives in Tallinn with her ensemble to celebrate the Estonian Jazz Award she received last year. Jazzkaar audiences can look forward to an electrifying performance filled with energy, boldness, inspiration, and youthful spirit!