World Stars at Budapest Jazz Club: JURE PUKL – JOE SANDERS – GREGORY HUTCHINSON TRIO

Jure Pukl is widely regarded as one of the most significant saxophonists on today’s international jazz scene and is among the few musicians who have successfully built a natural bridge between the European and New York jazz communities over the past two decades. Born in Slovenia, Pukl studied at the conservatories of Vienna and The Hague before continuing his education at Berklee College of Music, where he worked with renowned mentors including Joe Lovano and George Garzone. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with artists such as Vijay Iyer, Charles Lloyd, Melissa Aldana, Peter Evans and Nasheet Waits. His playing is instantly recognizable for its distinctive tone, deep understanding of the modern jazz tradition, and remarkable balance between improvisation and compositional sophistication.

Joining him on stage are two leading figures of contemporary American jazz. Bassist Joe Sanders is one of the most sought-after musicians of his generation, having become a key collaborator for artists including Joshua Redman, Gerald Clayton, Kendrick Scott, Ben Wendel and Charles Lloyd. Known for his exceptional musicality, instrumental freedom and versatility across virtually every branch of modern jazz, Sanders has shared a close artistic partnership with Pukl for more than a decade. Their numerous performances and recordings together have established them as one of the most compelling creative partnerships in contemporary jazz. On drums is Gregory Hutchinson, widely considered one of the finest jazz drummers of his generation. His extraordinary career has seen him perform alongside legendary artists such as Betty Carter, Roy Hargrove, Ray Brown, Joshua Redman and Wynton Marsalis. Renowned for his technical mastery, imagination and dynamic sensitivity, Hutchinson remains one of the most influential drummers on the international jazz scene.

The connection between these three musicians is far more than an occasional collaboration. Pukl, Sanders and Hutchinson have performed together in various formations for many years, with their acclaimed album Doubtless standing as one of the outstanding recordings of contemporary acoustic jazz. Their music seamlessly combines the energy of modern American jazz, the exploratory spirit of European improvisation and the intimacy of chamber music.

Their Budapest concert on October 2 brings together three exceptional artists whose virtuosity serves not as an end in itself, but as a vehicle for spontaneous musical communication. Audiences can expect a rare encounter with a group whose remarkable chemistry and shared artistic vision place them at the forefront of both the European and American jazz worlds.

Jure Pukl – saxophone, Joe Sanders – bass, Gregory Hutchinson – drum