Riku Niemi is a percussionist, composer, lyricist, arranger and orchestra leader. Niemi has had an extensive career in both symphonic and popular music. He studied percussion at the Turku Conservatory and the Sibelius Academy and his versatile musician’s career covers both classical music and lighter entertainment music.

In 1988, Niemi rose to national prominence with his debut at the Radio Symphony Orchestra’s Young Soloists concert, becoming the first percussion soloist in the history of the prestigious event. Niemi continued his career in chamber music and was a member of Avanti! from 1988 to 1997, also serving on the orchestra’s artistic management team. Niemi has been a member of Toimii! since 1989.

In 2005, Niemi culminated his long-term collaboration with various orchestras and artists by founding his own ensemble, the Riku Niemi Orchestra, whose repertoire combines classical expertise and innovative arrangements. He has written many arrangements for solo musicians as well as for larger orchestral ensembles.

As a composer and arranger, Niemi is particularly known for his ability to combine different musical genres and create artistically ambitious but accessible performances. His work ranges from concert halls to television and film music, and his musical vision has enriched the Finnish cultural scene for decades.