The Prague Connection

Tuesday 27 January 2026 | 07:00 PM

This dynamic international quartet unites four acclaimed artists in a thrilling jazz collaboration, touring Australia in January 2026.

At the heart of the group is Libor Šmoldas, one of the Czech Republic’s leading guitarists, celebrated for his “smooth, effortless and melodic approach”, and his “apparent love of jazz and his audience”. Libor has recorded extensively, including a Hammond organ quartet album Midnight Sun with award-winning Queensland vocalist and educator, Ingrid James, known for her rich timbre, impeccable phrasing, and her “special ability to convey real, almost tangible emotions.”

Joining them is Dr. Darren Heinrich, a Sydney-based organist and educator who holds Australia’s first PhD in Jazz Organ Improvisation. Described as having “crystal-clear articulation and dynamic sensitivity,” Darren honours and expands the organ trio tradition with every performance. His recent work includes a recording with Libor in Prague, further deepening the musical ties that form The Prague Connection.

Completing the line-up is Dave Sanders, one of Australia’s most in-demand drummers and drum teachers, bringing rhythmic depth and subtlety to this powerhouse group.

Together, these four artists offer a vibrant program drawing on:

• Heinrich’s recent release The Prague Sessions – “a mature, forward-looking jazz organ trio album of unique original compositions with strong grooves and soul-jazz infuences”.
• James and Šmoldas’ album Midnight Sun, a fresh take on classic straight-ahead jazz, modern jazz, and Brazilian standards, featuring reimagined gems such as I’ll Remember April, Close Your Eyes, Never Let Me Go, and Midnight Sun, alongside modern classics like Freddie Hubbard’s Little Sunflower, Bill Evans’ Funkallero, Joey Calderazzo’s Midnight Voyage, a jazz reworking of the 1966 hit Everybody’s Talkin’ and more…

Expect a colourful sonic palette from the Hammond organ, the sparkle of finely crafted arrangements, and the expressive interplay of four artists at the top of their game. As Jazzport.cz describes Midnight Sun: “Zest, juice, emotion – dense and malleable music.”

This is more than a concert – it’s a celebration of collaboration, chemistry, and the timeless spirit of jazz.

Doors open at 6pm, concert commences at 7pm. Bar and bistro available.

Book your seat by phoning or text to Keryn on 0419 658 983 or Dianne on 0402 895 008.

Presented by the Gold Coast City Jazz Club. Concerts held twice monthly on a Tuesday evening at 7pm and also every couple of months twilight concerts held on Sunday afternoons at 4pm.

Getting there

Consider using public transport or active travel. Plan your trip with Translink's journey planner.

Parking may be limited. For metered parking, use the EasyPark app to start, end, and extend your parking direct from your phone to avoid fines. For more information visit City of Gold Coast's Parking page.

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