Matti Heinivaho, influential musician, passes away in Tampere after prolonged illness

Matti Heinivaho, a versatile musician and influential figure, has passed away in Tampere following a prolonged illness. His widow, Tuula Heinivaho, confirmed the news.

Heinivaho’s musical career began in the 1950s, during which he played and sang in various ensembles, most notably with the Pelimannipojat band. He was both a vocalist and a vibraphonist, with his breakout hit being the 1960 song “Tunturin juurella.” Other notable songs associated with him include “Pikkuneiti porvoolainen” and the mid-1960s favorite “Lännen tie.”

Heinivaho joined Yle TV2’s music department in 1964, where his career as a producer and director spanned more than three decades until his retirement in 1999. Over this period, he produced and directed over 700 music programs.

In addition to his music career, Heinivaho was active in municipal politics. He served on various committees in the City of Tampere, including the culture and leisure committee and the street naming committee. Elected to the city council in 2004 as a member of the National Coalition Party, he left office in 2016 after more than a decade of service.

Heinivaho also held church-related positions in his local parish, Messukylä, participating in the church council for around 30 years and serving on the joint church council from 2003 to 2014. He was deeply engaged in the jazz community, leading the Tamjazz Ry association for jazz lovers in Tampere, where his vibraphone performances were featured.

In recognition of his contributions to music, he received the title of Music Counsellor in 2008 and the Louis Armstrong Award for promoting traditional jazz. Matti Heinivaho is survived by his wife and two daughters.