The Ah-Q Jazz Arkestra performs an eclectic mix of jazz (straight ahead and modern), funk and Latin music. Mixing different styles and influences is the band¡¯s trademark. The band also writes and performs their own original jazz compositions, and released their first album, a double-CD entitled ¡°Yi Nian¡±, in March 2007.

The band was formed in 2003 by trombonist Matt Roberts (Philadelphia) and the husband and wife team of Dave Beckstead (guitar) and Nathalie Craan (vocals), both from Canada. Some of Beijing¡¯s finest jazz musicians have passed through their ranks and the present line up includes Liu Xiaoguang (tenor sax), Da Zhong (bass), Xiao Dou (drums) and Scott Silverman (drums, from San Francisco).