Wherever jazz landed, Afro-American music and dance quickly dominated the entertainment landscape around the world, often overshadowing long established musical traditions. When jazz arrived in China and melded with local music, the debate about its influence on local culture and music raised questions about national identity. Shanghai, China’s often-decadent metropolis, was the center of this debate as American-influenced entertainment intoxicated the local population, forever altering the cultural and political landscapes. This talk will include rare audio and unique film, providing an unusual perspective during one of the most turbulent times in modern history.

Cory Combs is an educator, historian, lecturer, composer, and bassist. At present he is the Director of Outreach and Music at the Nueva School. He has presented frequent lectures on music history and culture throughout the Bay area and nationally. He previously served as Director of Education at SFJAZZ.