Tuuraaja

Tuuraaja is a Finnish term referring to a person who substitutes for a regular musician in a performance or service. The role is most commonly associated with church music, where a tuuraaja fills in for an organist, pianist, or choir conductor who is temporarily unavailable. The word stems from the concept of tuuraus, substitution, and the -aja suffix indicating a doer.

Typical duties include learning the repertoire, attending rehearsals, and performing in place of the regular musician. A tuuraaja coordinates with the parish or ensemble leadership, may use temporary sheet music or transcriptions, and ensures continuity of musical services. Compensation varies, ranging from volunteer to per-service payment, depending on the context and local practice. In many cases the tuuraaja is a trusted community musician who can quickly assimilate the part and communicate with other performers.

Although most commonly encountered in Finland and Finnish-speaking communities, the concept of a stand-in musician exists worldwide; in Finland the term is mostly used within church communities, choirs, and smaller ensembles. The role is not tied to a specific official title or contract in all cases and can be informal or formally arranged by a parish or organization. See also: session musician, stand-in, substitute organist.