The Silkroad Ensemble with Wu Man: American Railroad

Experience Silkroad’s acclaimed American Railroad program — now reimagined with an intimate, powerhouse ensemble of eight world-class musicians led by the internationally acclaimed pipa master, Wu Man. This compelling program presents a sonic tapestry of the past, evoking the powerful and often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous and African Americans, as well as Chinese, Irish, Japanese, and other immigrant communities who laid the tracks for the transcontinental railroad that transformed a nation. 

The program highlights thrilling collaborations of traditional percussion instruments from India, Japan, and Italy, alongside the exquisite tonal interplay of Chinese pipa, guitar, string instruments, and of course the unforgettable wild Chinese wind instrument suona and European accordion. With breathtaking musicianship and evocative melodies, this Grammy Award-winning group challenges conventional narratives, unveiling a deeply human perspective that redefines the American experience and transports audiences through a cultural and historical odyssey. 

A Grammy Award-winning musical ensemble, Silkroad is a collective of artists representing dozens of nationalities, traditions and ideas, who use music and art to demonstrate how great beauty can emerge from great difference. The Ensemble strives to engage difference, sparking radical collaboration and music with a purpose, for a more hopeful and inclusive world. 

Golden Circle / VIP Ticket Info: 

Enjoy premiere seating, early entry into the venue, and access to FirstWorks’ exclusive pre-show VIP toast. This special evening celebrates FirstWorks’ long-standing partnership with the Grammy Award-winning Silkroad Ensemble, who helped to launch the organization’s Arts Education program in 2009. An unforgettable night of world-class music and community connection! 

Funded in part by the New England States Touring program of the New England Foundation for the Arts, made possible with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts Regional Touring Program and the six New England state arts agencies. Additional support from City of Providence Department of Art, Culture and Tourism, Papitto Opportunity Connection, The Carter Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation, Rhode Island State Council on the Arts and the Rhode Island Foundation