Jazz Guitarist Reflects on Ježek

Czech jazz guitarist Libor Šmoldas performed in the Embassy garden songs from his album "Blue, Smoldas Plays Ježek." Ambassador Hynek Kmoníček opened the event, speaking about the influence of the Czech jazz great Jaroslav Ježek. The evening included Libor's original arrangements of Ježek's songs, including "Tmavomodrý svět" (Dark Blue World) and "Klobouk ve křoví" (Hat in the Bushes). He further spoke about the life of the Czech jazz legend, who was blind and died at the early age of 35, but left a huge impression on the jazz scene. Libor said, "Before I fell in love with the music of Charlie Parker, Chet Baker, Miles Davis and other greats of American jazz, I listened to jazz of premium quality and yet wholly Czech – music of a genius musician, Jaroslav Ježek – I loved it." Libor even performed a special song from before WWII, a reflection and meditation unfurled through the beautifully strummed strings. In the garden of the Czech Embassy, under the canopy of the trees, the audience applauded the exceptional performance.