The 49-year-old Stern started playing guitar at the age of 12, and immediately won wide acclaim for his unique performing style which combines rock with romance.

In 1990, he was named the best jazz guitarist by "The Guitar Player" magazine, and in recent years, his two CDs have won the Grammy Award. He has toured in Europe and the far east, and has played all of the major jazz festivals in the United States.

The organizers said the guitarist will give lessons to Chinese fans and collaborate with his Chinese counterparts to compose some music. A young Chinese band named "Beijing Boys" will accompany Stern on stage.

The organizers said the Chinese pop music circle needs to learn more about western styles to enhance their own artistic creativity.

(Xinhua News Agency January 4, 2003)