Julian Hesse Quartet

The Julian Hesse Quartet brings together four jazz musicians from Europe and the USA. The ensemble is led by German trumpeter Julian Hesse, a Fulbright Scholar whose music combines tradition with modern jazz language and distinctive melody. The lineup features Libor Šmoldas (Czech Republic) on guitar, Peter Cudek (Slovakia) on double bass, and Jesse Simpson (USA) on drums.

The quartet's music draws from hard bop, modal jazz, and European lyricism, built on strong interplay among all members. Hesse previously led the band BOUNCE and has collaborated with Aaron Parks and Ari Hoenig. His album Troubleshooter (2021) was nominated for the German Music Critics' Award.