The Story

Shanghai Jazz opened its doors in the summer of 1995, brought to life by David Niu and Martha Chang. While pursuing her doctoral studies, Martha dove deeply into the cultural history of 1920s Shanghai. During a challenging global period, Shanghai became a sanctuary for individuals fleeing hardships such as America’s depression, rising political turmoil in Eastern Europe, and Australia’s penal settlements. The influx of diverse populations led to a unique culinary fusion, an undercurrent of darker influences, and a flourishing music scene centered around jazz that lit up the city’s nightlife.