Libor Smoldas

Libor Šmoldas (born 17 February 1982) is a Czech jazz guitarist, composer, bandleader and educator. He has performed all over the world.

He has been featured in international jazz press, including Jazz Guitar Today and All About Jazz.

Early life and education Šmoldas was born on 17 February 1982 in Olomouc and grew up in Prague. He began his musical training on flute and trumpet before switching to guitar at the age of twelve, initially performing in rock and blues groups before focusing on jazz.

He received a scholarship offer to Berklee College of Music in 2005, which he did not attend.

Career

Organic Quartet Šmoldas first gained wider recognition as a member of Organic Quartet led by organist Ondřej Pivec. The group received critical acclaim in Czech jazz media and won the Anděl Award for Jazz Album of the Year.

International activity and reception Šmoldas has performed at jazz clubs and festivals across Europe and internationally, including venues such as Ronnie Scott's in London, Smalls and Iridium in New York City, and Porgy & Bess in Vienna.

He has also been featured in Czech Television and Czech Radio (ČRo Vltava), which have covered his projects and performances.

Teaching Since 2006, Šmoldas has taught at the Jaroslav Ježek Conservatory in Prague and has led workshops internationally in Europe, the United States and Australia.

Style His playing has been described as melodic and rooted in the straight-ahead jazz tradition, while incorporating elements of blues and modern jazz influences.

Awards Anděl Award for Jazz Album of the Year (with Organic Quartet)

Discography (selected) On the Playground (2007) In New York On Time (2010) Live at Jazz Dock (2011) 18 Days, 2000 Miles (2012) Intuition (2013) Dreamtime (2013) Blue – Šmoldas Plays Ježek (2015) On the Move (2016) Lay It Down! (2017) Silver (2019) Dusk (2020) Sorry, Miles! (2026)