Critics have described Czech pianist Kristina Barta as “fiery, expressive, eloquent, and stubborn.” Originally admitted to the Prague Conservatory as an oboist, she later embraced the piano and earned a prominent position in the Euroradio Jazz Orchestra, garnering several prestigious awards.
Barta, recognized internationally as both a composer and pianist, embarked on her musical journey after studying classical music and composition at the Prague Conservatory. She graduated from the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, specializing in jazz piano. Her career has taken her on a constant whirlwind of tours, gracing renowned venues worldwide, including Jazzahead! (Germany), Bimhuis (Netherlands), Montreux Jazz Festival (Switzerland), Steyr Jazz Festival (Austria), V4 Jazz Festival (Hungary), Strasbourg’s Jazzdor (France), D'Jazz Nevers (France), A Trane (Germany), and many others.
In 2016, Barta claimed first place in a jazz composer’s competition in the Czech Republic and saw her trio advance to the finals of the 2016 Euroradio Jazz Competition in the Netherlands. She further solidified her status as a rising star by winning the 2017 Powiew Młodego Jazzu in Poland, earning an individual award for her remarkable piano skills.
Barta’s discography includes her debut album “EMA29” on the Austrian Alessa Records label in 2017, followed by “Love and Passion” in 2021. Her upcoming release, “Endless Questions and Answers,” scheduled for October 2023, features nine original compositions created for her new quartet, in collaboration with the world-renowned tenor saxophonist Jure Pukl. This latest album signifies a fresh chapter in Barta’s musical evolution.
Currently, Kristina Barta is composing a new piece for a jazz quartet and symphonic orchestra in partnership with The Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra.