With elegance and charisma, virtuosic pipa performer Wu Man — a principal member of Yo-Yo Ma’s acclaimed Silk Road Ensemble —has lovingly carved a new space in modern music for the ancient lute-like instrument of China, introducing it to new audiences and nearly singlehandedly expanding its core repertoire. She has moved far beyond the novelty of the pipa’s beautiful-yet-peculiar tone, ensuring that the instrument is appreciated for its unique contribution to various forms of music.
Western music didn't realize it was missing the pipa until Wu Man came along, with an omnivorous artistic spirit and genre-hopping virtuosity that has made her the foremost exponent of the lute-like Chinese instrument in contemporary music. Wu Man's "consummate musicality and brilliant technique" (New York Times) has led to collaborations with Kronos Quartet (Dec 7 in Zellerbach Hall); the Silk Road Ensemble; composers Lou Harrison, Philip Glass, Terry Riley, and Tan Dun; and orchestras the world over. Her recitals bridge an astounding range of repertoire that highlights the lush expressive palette of her instrument, from moody ancient melodies to sprightly original compositions.
$32 and up
Buy tickets by calling 510-642-9988, or by emailing tickets@calperformances.org.