With memories of the Spring Festival Gala Show still ringing in our ears, Chinese opera was about the last thing we yearned to hear. Nonetheless, a recent production to Si Lang Visits His Mother (四郎探母) had us kowtowing in respect of the highly talented performers. With striking gestures, fabulous costumes and spitfire singing passages interspersed with mellifluous rectal, the opera overflowed with riches.

Those whose tastes lean more towards the classical would do well to catch the Music after Six series of concerts at Jin Mao Concert Hall. As the title states, the music begins after six - 6:30 pm to be precise - and runs a brisk 45 minutes, so supper need not be delayed too long. In addition to being short and sweet, the series features interesting pairings, rather than the usual checklist of classical blue chip brands. For example, Beethoven’s “String Trio Op.9″ performed on the same bill as “Duo for Violin and Cello”, by one of the former’s lesser-known contemporaries; Carl Stamitz provides historical context, and proof, if any were needed, of why Beethoven’s music merits the stature it has long enjoyed.

While the educational aim of the After Six series is laudable, Zi Liang’s concert at the Oriental Arts Center merely pandered to audience pretensions. Following a perfunctory run through Smetana’s Moldau the orchestra launched into a saccharine medley of classical works - Zi’s Mass, a bland “Kyrie” followed by a meandering “Gloria” - in a failed effort to grant prestige to the proceedings.

There is hope, however; this month Shanghai will host preeminent pipa virtuoso Wu Man, who will share the stage with the venerable Kronos Quartet. Wu has long blended traditional Chinese music with works by contemporary composers to great acclaim. With music by Tan Dun, Sigur Ros and Terry Riley on the program, this concert promises to be a timely lesion in musical outreach.

Lastly, the Yu Feng Theater (where the immortal James Brown played his first and sadly last concert in China) will host one-night only performances by Ziggy Marley and Kenny G on March 27 and 29, respectively. Granted, Mr. Kenneth Gorelick needs no introduction, but few fans are aware that the multi-platinum smooth jazz sax man got his start with Barry white’s Love Unlimited Orchestra and later played with rocker Steve Miller. That said, audiences can expect an evening of what G does best; crowd-pleasing instrumental pop.