From Mao To Mozart: Isaac Stern In China

FROM MAO TO MOZART: ISAAC STERN IN CHINA is a well produced but fairly bland documentary on the esteemed musician's tour through mainland China.

For three weeks in June of 1979, violinist Isaac Stern visited the People's Republic of China at the government's invitation, accompanied by his family and pianist David Golub. At the American embassy in Beijing, Stern is cordially greeted by Chinese government officials and musicians alike, Stern commenting that "the best way to learn another culture is to meet the professionals in one's own field."

Stern agrees to prepare a concert for the Central Philharmonic, the leading orchestra in Beijing, and is surprised th...