German Embassy, Goethe Institute host Jazz concert

Saifullah Ansar

ISLAMABAD, Nov 15 (DNA): The German Embassy and the Goethe-Institut brought an evening of vibrant contemporary jazz to the capital as the renowned Eva Klesse Quartet performed at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA). The concert, organised in collaboration with PNCA, drew a large and enthusiastic audience that enjoyed the band’s dynamic fusion of modern jazz and the cultural vibes of Cologne, Germany.

German Ambassador Ina Lepel, speaking on the occasion, highlighted the significance of cultural exchange between the two countries. “Germany is of course a country of tradition, but also has a very modern, urban and dynamic culture,” she said. “We are proud to have the Eva Klesse Quartet with us in Islamabad today because they personify this side of our culture and connect really well with the vibrant Pakistani society, especially with young people.”

The Islamabad performance marked the final stop of the quartet’s Pakistan tour, following appearances at the World Culture Festival in Karachi and at the Alhamra Arts Centre in Lahore.

Formed in 2013, the Eva Klesse Quartet — comprising Evgeny Ring on saxophone, Felix Hauptmann on piano, Tabea Kind on bass, and drummer Eva Klesse — has earned international acclaim with six albums and hundreds of performances across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. Winners of the 2015 ECHO Jazz Award for Best Newcomer Ensemble, the group is known for its original compositions and a distinct sound that blends contemporary improvisation, modern jazz and innovative pop influences.

The event in Islamabad further strengthened cultural ties and introduced local audiences particularly youth to Germany’s evolving and vibrant jazz tradition.