All images © Dino Rekanovic
Experience “Jazz Without Borders” with Dusha Connection, one of Vienna’s dynamic jazz ensembles. Led by drummer and composer Esad Halilovic, with pianist Urs Hager and bassist Clemens Rofner, this concert celebrates the universal language of music and its power to connect cultures and people across borders. Their music weaves together the elegance of traditional jazz, the warmth of Balkan rhythms, and the creativity of contemporary improvisation—resulting in a sound that is both sophisticated and adventurous.
Having captivated audiences from Europe to Hong Kong and Nepal, Dusha Connection now brings their soulful, cosmopolitan energy to the heart of the U.S. capital. The evening will feature selections from their acclaimed albums, including their imaginative tribute to Erik Satie, Outside.
A quick update regarding the concert:
The New York-based bassist Dan Montgomery will step in for Clemens Rofner, who is unfortunately unable to attend.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Urs Hager pursued a rigorous academic path in jazz piano at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz and earned his Master’s in Vienna with honors. A highly sought-after sideman and bandleader in the European jazz scene, Hager leads masterclasses at international conservatories to share his expertise in improvisation and creative interaction.
Clemens Rofner (who had to cancel his participation) is an accomplished bassist whose career spans major stages across Europe, Asia, and North America. Known for his technical precision and stylistic flexibility, Rofner is a staple of the Austrian music scene, performing on double bass as well as electric bass. He is a member of other prominent ensembles such as H15 and Nordic Pulse.
Esad Halilovic (Artistic Leader) is a Serbian-born, Vienna-based drummer, composer, and music educator who serves as the visionary founder of Dusha Connection. Since 2014, Halilovic has focused on bridging traditional jazz with his Balkan heritage, creating a "nomadic" sound that blends Slavic spirit with modern and urban sensibilities. Under his leadership, the ensemble has performed at prestigious venues worldwide. Esad also serves as the Artistic Director of the International Jazz Festival Pakistan and remains a pivotal figure in connecting diverse musical cultures through performance and masterclasses.
Dan Montgomery, a graduate of the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, has established himself as a highly acclaimed bassist, composer, and educator on the international jazz scene. He has released several celebrated albums, including Storyteller and Fly. He has performed and recorded with industry leaders such as Ari Hoenig, Manuel Valera, and Troy Roberts, and is a key member of Remy Le Boeuf's Grammy-nominated Assembly of Shadows. Dan currently teaches at the Brooklyn Music School, sharing his expertise with the next generation of jazz talent.