Posted October 13, 1999

Pianist and composer Jon Jang will discuss his innovative integration of Chinese folk songs with contemporary musical formats at 4 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 28, in the MLK Jr. Student Union's Pauley Ballroom.

The event, which will be introduced by Ishmael Reed, also features a musical performance with Jang's ensemble and a poetry reading by Genny Lim.

Jang's pioneering music ties tradition to innovation, revitalizing the genres of jazz, classical music and African American spirituals in his compositions. The critically-acclaimed Jang has, with his ensemble, toured major concert halls around the world and made numerous recordings.

A new work by Jang and James Newton, "When Sorrow Turns to Joy," based on the lives of Paul Robeson and Chinese opera star Mei Lanfang, premieres at Cal Performances next summer.

Jang will discuss the work-in-progress, which celebrates two great stage performers who fought racial discrimination through their art at 1 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 26, at Alumni House.

October 13 - 19, 1999 (Volume 28, Number 10)
Copyright 1999, The Regents of the University of California.
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