Art & Activism with Saxophonist Francis Wong

To close out Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, San Francisco-based saxophonist and longtime activist Francis Wong joins us to talk about the revolutionary power of music and art. He shares how he came to pick up a saxophone in the first place and how music, especially jazz, has played an important role in his activist work.

We discuss the role of multiracial unity and collective power in art and the ongoing fight for social justice in this country. Francis shares about his album with legendary drummer Max Roach and the record label he founded with composer and pianist Jon Jang, Asian Improv Arts. We also play excerpts from Francis’ extensive musical works.

REFERENCES:
Francis Wong – @franciswongsf

Asian Improv aRts – https://asianimprov.org

SONGS
“Prayers for Melvin Truss” – https://asianamsmakingmusic.tumblr.com/post/55447694876/jon-jang-4-in-one-quartet-prayer-for-melvin
“Pie Jesu” from Gabriel Faure’s “Requiem” – https://youtube.com/watch?v=rnCKf1–leM
“Meditation on Integration” – https://youtube.com/watch?v=rnCKf1–leM
“Miyoshi Sketches” – https://youtube.com/watch?v=iBKV-B8Nf0c

BACKGROUND INFO
Chinese Exclusion Act – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_Exclusion_Act
Joseph Pierce, Union Army Soldier – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Joseph_Pierce_Chinese_Union_Army_Soldier_In_14th_Connecticut_Infantry_Regiment.jpg
Black Arts Movement – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Arts_Movement
Erhu instrument – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erhu