Elsa Nilsson Quartet @ ORBIS - Kulturně Komunitní Centrum Beroun | 3.7.2026
If I didn’t know better, I would say that the Czech Republic has found a musical ambassador without equal. Last night, that ambassador showed us the real, breathtaking beauty of Bohemia, dressed entirely in the language of music. I am, of course, referring to New York flutist Elsa Nilsson’s latest suite, Český Kras—the third installment in her brilliant Atlas of Sound series. Presented to us at the ORBIS Cultural and Community Center in Beroun, the work was deeply touching, sensitive, and profoundly emotional.
As the sun dipped below the horizon behind the old Jewish cemetery, the air filled with the magical sounds of the Elsa Nilsson Quartet. I don’t know how else to describe the ethereal feeling that washed over the historic courtyard last night. This performance was yet another masterclass demonstration of Elsa’s excellent skills, not just as a virtuoso flutist, but as an incredibly visionary composer.
I will admit, I wasn’t surprised—just very, very pleased. Having experienced Elsa’s music before, I was already well aware of her unique ability to wrap an entire audience around her little finger. Honestly, I could have stayed in that courtyard listening for hours. (You can read my previous review of her HERE).
Elsa was backed by an absolute powerhouse lineup. On guitar and drums were local heavyweights David Dorůžka and Jesse Simpson. Both possess the world-class skill to play absolutely anything, anywhere—providing a flawless musical backbone the quartet could completely rely on. On double bass, Anne Mette Iversen was a brand-new experience for me. I had briefly looked up her biography online before the show and found a CV so impressive it was hard to believe. That is, until I actually heard her play. Every piece of praise written about her is a massive understatement; she has an absolutely brilliant, commanding touch on the instrument.
Prague residents are lucky enough to have the chance to experience the Elsa Nilsson Quartet on two more occasions this weekend. They are performing tonight (Saturday) at the intimate U Malého Glena, and on Sunday evening aboard the Jazz Boat. If you have the slightest chance to catch one of these shows—or both—take it. It is worth it, and so much more.
Thank you, Elsa Nilsson Quartet! 🙏🙏🙏 
And please, come back to Bohemia soon.
And please, come back to Bohemia soon.To see all the evening’s pictures click HERE!
