Program

M. K. Collective feat. Julia Šlahařová (CZ)

Milan Krajíc – ss, as, ts, arr; Daniela Hnátová – g; František Nedvěd – p; Tomáš Hykl – bg; Kryštof Kolář – dr; Julia Šlahařová – voc

The band was founded in Karlovy Vary in 2010 at the initiative of saxophonist Milan Krajíc and his son, drummer Milan Krajíc Jr. Today, the group is returning after years with a new lineup, focusing on jazz repertoire with vocalist Julia Šlahařová. The seventeen-year-old student of the Prague Conservatory finished third in last year’s vocal competition Karlovarský hlas, where she also received the Band’s Prize.

Lukáš Oravec Quartet feat. JERRY BERGONZI (USA, SK, CZ)

Jerry Bergonzi (USA) – sax; Lukáš Oravec (SK) – tp; Klaudius Kováč (SK) – p; Tomáš Baroš (CZ) – db; Marián Ševčík (SK) – dr

The quartet, led by outstanding trumpeter Lukáš Oravec, was formed in early 2012 and immediately captivated jazz fans and critics with its quality. It has performed more than two hundred club and festival concerts across Europe and released several albums. The quartet has collaborated with numerous world-class artists, including Grammy winners and classical ensembles. On their most recent album Hope, the group is joined by world-renowned tenor saxophonist Jerry Bergonzi.

Besides the quartet, Lukáš Oravec is the leader of the international big band Lukáš Oravec Orchestra and a member of two other big bands. As a sideman, he has contributed to more than ten albums. Pianist Klaudius Kováč has performed with musicians from different continents and is currently active in several ensembles. Double bassist Tomáš Baroš is one of the most sought-after bassists not only in the Czech Republic and Slovakia but is also regularly engaged by international artists. He has accompanied many stars of the global jazz scene. Marián Ševčík ranks among Europe’s leading jazz musicians, collaborating with outstanding artists both locally and abroad.

Tenor saxophonist Jerry Bergonzi is an internationally acclaimed performer, composer, and educator. Jazz critics list him among the top one hundred saxophonists of all time. He first rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of Dave Brubeck’s band, with whom he toured throughout the decade. Since the early 1980s, he has released over fifty solo albums and appeared as a sideman on more than two hundred recordings. He has performed worldwide at all the major jazz festivals and venues, both with his own groups and alongside many jazz greats. His music is known for its innovation, mastery, and integrity.