Martin Kratochvíl (born 22 May 1946) is a Czech jazz / jazz fusion keyboardist and businessman born in Prague. He cofounded the Jazz Q quartet in 1964. During his career, he has performed in various countries around the world, launched his own record label, opened a recording studio, and released numerous albums both as a solo artist and with other musicians.
Career
In 1964, Kratochvíl cofounded the band Jazz Q with flautist Jiří Stivín; the group was later rounded out by guitarist Luboš Andršt and bassist Vladimír Padrůněk during their most successful era.[1]
In 1970, they collaborated with the rock band Blue Effect on the fusion album Coniunctio.[2] Kratochvíl has also performed and released a number of albums with American guitarist Tony Ackerman.[3]
Being a successful musician both in Czechoslovakia and overseas, Kratochvíl saved enough money so that when the communist regime collapsed in 1989, he became a successful businessman, owner of an airport, several factories, and other ventures. The same year, he founded the record label Bonton Music.[4][5] Kratochvíl also has his own recording studio, Studio Budíkov.[6]
Personal life
Kratochvíl's first wife was Magdalena Kocábová, sister of musician and activist Michael Kocáb.[7]
