Last night at Emma Gaala 2026, Kadi Vija took home the Jazz of the Year award for Tiny Hands Gathering Wonder, The World Becomes Magic! We couldn’t be happier!

The competition was fierce. This year’s Jazz Emma nominees were a testament to the strength of the Finnish jazz scene right now: Helmi Antila (Kuvia nuoruudesta / Kuohu Records), Joona Toivanen Trio (Gravity / We Jazz), Harri Kuusijärvi (Aallot / Flame Jazz Records), Pepa Päivinen Peacepipe (Vihmoo / Flame Jazz Records), and Varre Vartiainen with Mike Stern (Head and Heart / Eclipse Music). An incredible lineup.

Kadi came out on top, and it’s a well-deserved recognition of her singular artistry. As a vocal instrumentalist who blurs the lines between voice, improvisation, and modern sound design, she continues to push what jazz can be in 2026.

Congratulations, Kadi! This one’s for the books.

A huge thank you to Kadi for your vision and music! And to everyone who was part of bringing this album to life.