Oregon Experience

A Portland group was formed to support China during wartime. Now it fights a battle to keep the beat of traditional music alive

By Winston Szeto (OPB)

May 31, 2025 1 p.m. Updated: June 20, 2025 7:38 p.m.

Founded in 1942 by Portland’s Chinese immigrants to raise funds for China’s defense in World War II, the Yat Sing Music Club perseveres in preserving Cantonese opera through ongoing rehearsals and community outreach, despite declining membership and limited interest from younger generations.