Wu Man, pipa

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.