The concert between the famed Sami Joiker Ingá-Máret Gaup-Juusokaan and the Oulu All Star Big Band aimed to bridge the gap between traditional Sami joik and modern big band music. The event took place to celebrate the release of Gaup-Juusokaan's new album 'Davvi Oktavuohta - Pohjoinen Yhteys' on the Sami National Day, emphasizing the cultural significance of the performance. The show highlighted an intriguing dynamic where the orchestra relied on sheet music while Gaup-Juusokaan performed from memory, showcasing the distinct characteristics of joik, a vocal tradition that has been preserved for centuries in Europe.

Despite the challenges of melding the improvisational nature of joik with the structured compositions of a big band, both the artist and the musicians expressed confidence in their collaborative efforts. Gaup-Juusokaan's ability to connect with the conductor, Jaakko Jauhiainen, was pivotal, ensuring smooth communication throughout their performance. The trumpet player emphasized that adapting joik to a big band setting requires skill, sensitivity, and mutual understanding, marking a significant moment in the evolution of both musical styles.

This concert not only exemplified the innovative blending of contrasting musical traditions but also celebrated the rich heritage of Sami culture. It illustrates the potential for cultural exchange and collaboration in music, encouraging audiences to appreciate the depth of these longstanding traditions while also exploring new creative expressions.