Tomáš Zelený Trio @ U Staré Paní 8.5.2026
I’ve told you before that they were talented, but they’ve only gotten better since the last time they were in my viewfinder. The Tomáš Zelený Trio—featuring Mikuláš Pokorný (piano), Matej Štubniak (bass), and Tomáš Zelený (drums)—is a group that plays with a maturity far beyond their years.
If you closed your eyes and just listened, you might imagine a group that’s been together for decades—players with gray hair and beer stomachs. But open your eyes, and you see a young trio, live and kicking, delivering a performance that is modern, refreshing, and entirely their own. Their approach to the Great American Songbook steps outside the typical schematics, giving those classic standards a whole new meaning.
It’s a reminder to “old farts” like me to stop thinking in old patterns. It shouldn’t be a surprise anymore to see young musicians with such incredible chops; the education system across Europe has evolved, and here in the “European capital of jazz,” the tradition is deeper than ever. Tomáš has assembled a trio that isn’t just talented—they are skillful, energetic, and perfectly synchronized. As Mikuláš put it during the set: “I feel so relaxed when playing with these guys.“
That relaxation was evident in Mikuláš’s personal approach to the piano. He kept his colleagues (and the audience) on their toes; you’re never quite sure what he’ll do next, and I mean that in the best way possible. The setlist also featured a couple of his new originals—songs I truly hope they keep in rotation because they were, quite frankly, “disgustingly” good.
Tomáš himself has a unique way with the drum kit, especially during his solos, where he keeps the tension high, leaving you waiting for the next beat. Meanwhile, Matej is the perfect complement on bass. Together with Tomáš, they form a rhythm section that needs no excuses—it’s just class. Matej’s solos are so filled with emotion that I had to stop myself from mentioning his age again. I’ve learned my lesson: the young jazz scene in this country is phenomenal, and the Tomáš Zelený Trio is the perfect proof.
Go catch them if you have the chance. You won’t regret it.
If you closed your eyes and just listened, you might imagine a group that’s been together for decades—players with gray hair and beer stomachs. But open your eyes, and you see a young trio, live and kicking, delivering a performance that is modern, refreshing, and entirely their own. Their approach to the Great American Songbook steps outside the typical schematics, giving those classic standards a whole new meaning.
It’s a reminder to “old farts” like me to stop thinking in old patterns. It shouldn’t be a surprise anymore to see young musicians with such incredible chops; the education system across Europe has evolved, and here in the “European capital of jazz,” the tradition is deeper than ever. Tomáš has assembled a trio that isn’t just talented—they are skillful, energetic, and perfectly synchronized. As Mikuláš put it during the set: “I feel so relaxed when playing with these guys.“
That relaxation was evident in Mikuláš’s personal approach to the piano. He kept his colleagues (and the audience) on their toes; you’re never quite sure what he’ll do next, and I mean that in the best way possible. The setlist also featured a couple of his new originals—songs I truly hope they keep in rotation because they were, quite frankly, “disgustingly” good.
Tomáš himself has a unique way with the drum kit, especially during his solos, where he keeps the tension high, leaving you waiting for the next beat. Meanwhile, Matej is the perfect complement on bass. Together with Tomáš, they form a rhythm section that needs no excuses—it’s just class. Matej’s solos are so filled with emotion that I had to stop myself from mentioning his age again. I’ve learned my lesson: the young jazz scene in this country is phenomenal, and the Tomáš Zelený Trio is the perfect proof.
Go catch them if you have the chance. You won’t regret it.
Thank you, Tomáš Zelený Trio! 
To see all the evening’s pictures click HERE!
Great job Tomas!!