Russian composer Aaron Avshalomov, born in 1894, skillfully blended traditional Chinese music with European classical styles in his compositions. Inspired by the sounds of Peking Opera, he honed his craft through self-study and formal training at the Zurich Conservatory before fleeing to the United States during World War I. In 1918, he moved to China and immersed himself in Chinese music, later returning to the US in 1947 due to escalating global conflicts. Avshalomov's diverse body of work includes symphonies, operas, concertos, and ballets, showcasing his innovative fusion of cultural influences until his passing in 1965. His legacy lives on through recordings by his son and grandson, who have continued to champion his music.

Aaron Avshalomov, a pioneering composer of Russian descent, embarked on a musical journey that spanned continents and genres. His early exposure to Chinese music in Khabarovsk, Russia, laid the foundation for his groundbreaking integration of Chinese and Western musical traditions. Avshalomov's time in China, where he studied and composed, significantly influenced his works, such as the opera Kuan Yin and the symphonic poem Peiping Hutungs. His relocation to the US and subsequent return to China and eventual settling in Oregon and Shanghai reflected his nomadic yet creatively fruitful life. Avshalomov's contributions to music, celebrated through recordings by his descendants, highlight his innovative approach and enduring impact on the classical music landscape.