February 28, 2026 7:30 pm
Guzheng Meets Jazz is a captivating fusion project that blends the expressive traditional melodies of the guzheng with the rich harmonic language and improvisational freedom of jazz. By weaving traditional Chinese melodies with complex jazz harmonies and rhythms, this project creates a unique musical dialogue that honors ancient traditions while pushing creative boundaries. It invites listeners on a journey where the timeless beauty of Chinese music intersects with the vibrant spontaneity of jazz, resulting in a fresh, evocative sound that bridges cultures and genres.
Runtime: 1 hour
Ages: All Ages
Qi Yu is a guzheng (Chinese zither) artist, composer, and educator based in the DMV area. Born and raised in Inner Mongolia, China, she began playing the guzheng at the age of six.
Her innovative approach blends the sounds of the guzheng with jazz, Latin, Afro-Cuban, and other global music styles, pushing the instrument beyond its traditional boundaries. She holds a master’s degree in World Music and Recording Arts from Northern Illinois University. In 2025, she was selected as part of the Strathmore Artist in Residence Program, and her performances have been featured at renowned venues including The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Kennedy Center, among others.