Community Calendar

The Jackson Theatre will present From China to Appalachia on Saturday, June 6, at 7:00 pm, in partnership with the International Storytelling Center. This unexpected trio unites two-time GRAMMY® Award winners Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer with acclaimed Chinese hammered dulcimer artist Chao Tian for a dynamic performance where the Silk Road meets Appalachia and beyond.

Blending global traditions with inventive musicianship, the trio performs on instruments including yangqin (Chinese hammered dulcimer), gourd banjo, five-string banjo, ukulele, guitar, dumbek, cello-banjo, and mandolin. Their repertoire weaves together traditional Chinese and Appalachian music with contemporary and international works, alongside original compositions by all three artists.

Born out of friendship and a shared spirit of musical exploration, the collaboration grew from jam sessions into a touring production celebrating music as a bridge across cultures. Since 2023, the trio has toured extensively across the U.S., and their debut self-titled album has topped both folk radio and Billboard Bluegrass charts.

Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer are an American Roots duo recognized for their masterful musicianship, rich harmonies, and a career spanning 45 years. Known as “social music conductors,” they have inspired artists including Kaki King and Rhiannon Giddens.
Chao Tian, a classically trained musician and former director at Beijing Language and Culture University, is a founding member of the university’s music department and was appointed as an officer of the International Cultural Exchange Program in 2019.
Together, the trio creates a vibrant musical experience rooted in connection, tradition, and discovery.

This event is part of the Jackson Theatre’s ongoing collaboration with the International Storytelling Center.

The Rosen-Schaffel Competition for Young and Emerging Artists is a prestigious annual event dedicated to discovering and nurturing the talents of the next generation of classical musicians. Hosted in partnership with the Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University, this competition invites promising young instrumentalists from across the nation to showcase their skills in a vibrant and supportive environment.

Participants compete for a chance to win generous cash prizes that support their musical careers. The competition features a panel of distinguished judges, including renowned musicians and educators, who provide invaluable feedback and mentorship to the contestants.

Named in honor of Mrs. Muriel Rosen and two of Mrs. Rosen’s family members, Nancy and Neil Schaffel, the Rosen-Schaffel Competition continues to uphold a legacy of excellence and artistic growth. This event is a cornerstone of Appalachian State University’s commitment to fostering the arts and providing exceptional opportunities for young musicians to achieve their dreams.

Join us each year in celebrating the extraordinary talent and dedication of these young artists as they embark on their musical journeys and inspire audiences with their performances.