LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The London Symphony Orchestra’s Century-Long Journey of Musical Majesty

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The London Symphony Orchestra (LSO), London’s oldest symphony orchestra, has a history that reads like a symphony itself, marked by crescendos of innovation and moments of introspective transformation. Founded in 1904, the LSO’s narrative began in a spirit of independence and collaboration, traits that continue to define its ethos today.

Stationed at the Barbican Centre since the early 1980s, the LSO has embraced both the traditional and the contemporary, evident in its eclectic programming. Its contributions extend beyond the concert hall, with a significant presence in film scoring, including iconic soundtracks such as the Star Wars series.

Notably autonomous, the LSO has historically worked under the baton of many esteemed conductors, from Hans Richter and Sir Edward Elgar in its early days to contemporary maestros like Sir Colin Davis and Valery Gergiev. This flexibility has enabled a rich diversity in its performances.

The 2023/24 season exemplifies this breadth. The LSO’s lineup features a wide array of composers and styles, from the emotional depths of Tchaikovsky and Brahms to the avant-garde expressions of Debussy, Ravel, and Scriabin. These performances are not just concerts but narratives told through music, showcasing the LSO’s prowess in conveying complex emotional landscapes.

This season also sees the LSO tackling challenging pieces like Mahler’s Fifth Symphony and Prokofiev’s works, illustrating the orchestra’s versatility and commitment to exploring a broad musical spectrum. Such performances underline the LSO’s ability to interweave the historical and the contemporary, creating a tapestry that is both rich in heritage and forward-looking.

The London Symphony Orchestra continues to be a dynamic force in the world of classical music. Its journey, characterized by adaptability, innovation, and a deep respect for musical traditions, positions the LSO not just as a performer of music but as a living embodiment of the art form’s evolving nature.

BOMSORI KIM

The Virtuoso Violinist from South Korea

In the world of classical music, a star shines brightly from South Korea – Bomsori Kim, a violinist whose name resonates with the melodies of her homeland and the rigor of the Western classical tradition. Born in the winter of 1989 in Daegu, Bomsori’s musical journey began at the age of five, a journey that would take her from the bustling streets of Seoul to the hallowed halls of Juilliard.

Bomsori’s ascent to the pinnacle of classical music is a story of perseverance and exceptional talent. With her violin as her voice, she has captivated audiences in some of the most prestigious concert halls across the globe, from the elegance of Vienna’s Musikverein to the grandeur of New York’s Carnegie Hall. Her performances, marked by an exquisite blend of technical mastery and emotional depth, have earned her top prizes at several international competitions, firmly establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the classical music world.

Her artistic collaborations span continents and orchestras. She has shared stages with ensembles like the New York Philharmonic and the San Francisco Symphony, bringing her unique interpretation to every piece she plays. Her discography, including a critically acclaimed debut album featuring Wieniawski and Shostakovich, and a captivating collection of pieces by Fauré, Debussy, and Chopin, reflects her diverse musical palate and her ability to infuse each note with a profound sense of purpose and passion.

Beyond the concert hall, Bomsori’s influence extends to prestigious music festivals and residencies, where she not only performs but also shares her insights and passion with aspiring musicians. Her role as a cultural ambassador, bridging the East and West through her music, is a testament to her commitment to the art form she so dearly loves.

As the first Korean female violinist to ink an exclusive deal with a major record label, Bomsori plays on a historic Guarneri del Gesù violin, a testament to her stature in the classical music community. This instrument, a blend of history and craftsmanship, complements her artistic expression, allowing her to explore the depths and nuances of her repertoire.

Bomsori Kim’s story is more than a tale of individual success; it’s a symphony of dedication, cultural fusion, and the enduring power of music to transcend boundaries. Her journey, still unfolding, continues to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide, solidifying her place in the annals of classical music.

MITSUKO UCHIDA

Mitsuko Uchida: A Musical Journey through Time and Emotion

February 2023

Stepping onto the platform, Mitsuko Uchida embodies the essence of classical music mastery. Revered as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, her spellbinding interpretations of Mozart and Schubert have left audiences in awe for decades. At the age of 73, Dame Mitsuko Uchida’s musical journey continues unabated, with upcoming performances alongside prestigious orchestras such as the LSO and Berlin Philharmonic, spanning across the continents of America, Europe, and Asia.

Born on December 20, 1948, in Atami, Shizuoka, Japan, Uchida’s musical path began at her father’s insistence, studying piano as a young child. However, it was in Vienna, where her family relocated when she was 12, that Uchida’s true musical training commenced. Enrolling in the Vienna Academy of Music, she honed her skills under the tutelage of the celebrated pianist Richard Hauser, marking her debut recital at just 14 years old. Opting to stay in Vienna when her family moved again, Uchida continued her musical pursuits, studying with renowned pianists like Wilhelm Kempff and immersing herself in the works of Mozart.

In the 1980s, Uchida garnered widespread acclaim for her insightful and heartfelt interpretations of Mozart, releasing a highly praised set of recordings featuring his complete sonatas. Her repertoire expanded to encompass the works of other composers, with captivating recordings of Claude Debussy’s etudes, Schubert’s sonatas, and Beethoven’s concertos. Uchida’s performances were hailed for their intelligence, thoughtfulness, and profound emotional depth, showcasing her unique musical insight.

Throughout her illustrious career, Uchida has received numerous awards and honors, including Grammy Awards for best instrumental soloist and best classical solo vocal album. The Royal Philharmonic Society bestowed upon her its esteemed Gold Medal, and she received the Japan Art Association’s prestigious Praemium Imperiale prize for music.

Beyond her exceptional performances, Uchida has been actively involved in music education, co-directing the Marlboro Music summer program in Vermont for young artists. Her dedication to the craft and her contributions to music were recognized with honorary titles, including Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE).

As she steps onto the platform, Uchida knows that this moment holds the truth of her musical prowess. “That’s the moment of truth” She said in a recent intereview at The Guardian: “All the rest is pretending. That’s why you have to perform. You work differently. You learn different things. You have to risk your life on stage. That’s why live performances are more interesting.” For her, performing is not about pretense; it is about risking everything on stage. While some may think that with age and wisdom, performing becomes easier, Uchida humorously admits that the risks become even more daunting. Yet, her undying passion for Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, and contemporary works, like those of her cherished friend György Kurtág, fuels her desire to continue this divine gift of music.

Mitsuko Uchida’s lifelong dedication to her craft is a testament to her artistic brilliance. Each performance is a journey through time and emotion, as she weaves delicate and powerful notes, captivating hearts and minds alike. For Uchida, music is a heavenly gift, and she cherishes every moment she spends on stage, enchanting audiences worldwide with her unparalleled talent and unwavering love for the art form.

YO-YO MA

Yo-Yo Ma: A Virtuoso of Versatility and Humanity

December 2022

Yo-Yo Ma, a celebrated cellist and songwriter of Chinese heritage, has left an indelible mark on the world of classical music and beyond. From a young age, Ma’s exceptional musical talent shone through, and he quickly became one of the most famous classical musicians globally. His journey from child prodigy to an internationally acclaimed artist and cultural ambassador is nothing short of remarkable.

“Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks,” says Yo-Yo Ma. This passion for music and unwavering dedication to his craft has been the driving force behind Ma’s illustrious career. He has fearlessly pushed the boundaries of classical music, exploring various genres and collaborating with musicians from diverse backgrounds.

Born on October 7, 1955, in Paris, France, Yo-Yo Ma was surrounded by music from the very beginning. His mother, a singer, and his father, a composer and music teacher, nurtured his talents early on. Under the tutelage of his father, Ma and his older sister, Yeou-Cheng, began their musical education. While his sister learned the violin and piano, Yo-Yo Ma took up the cello at just four years old, astonishingly memorizing three of Bach’s solo suites by age five.

At the age of seven, Ma’s family moved to New York City, where he continued his musical education and embarked on a journey that would make him a musical sensation. Despite the immense pressure he and his sister faced to excel, Ma credits his early success to his father’s rigorous teaching style. His skills as a cellist earned him a spot at the prestigious Juilliard School, but Ma chose to pursue a broader education, enrolling at Harvard University at the age of 16.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ma’s performances have been driven by the power of ideas and a deep understanding of the music he plays. His relentless pursuit of new challenges and experimentation have brought classical music to a much larger audience than ever before.

After graduating from Harvard with a liberal arts degree in 1976, Yo-Yo Ma’s career hit a momentary snag when he underwent a risky back surgery for scoliosis. The successful operation marked a turning point in his life, propelling him into high demand as a performer, often booking concerts years in advance.

Ma’s discography is a testament to his versatility and dedication to experimentation. While classically trained, he has fearlessly explored various musical genres, from Baroque pieces to American bluegrass and traditional Chinese music. Throughout his illustrious career, he has produced over 75 albums, each showcasing his boundless passion for music. His accolades include a staggering 18 Grammy Awards, cementing his status as one of the best-selling classical artists of all time.

Beyond his remarkable musicianship, Yo-Yo Ma’s commitment to cultural understanding and artistic collaboration is awe-inspiring. In 1998, he founded the Silk Road Project, an organization aimed at promoting the arts and traditions along the ancient Silk Road trade route. As the artistic director of the project, Ma has connected artists and audiences globally, fostering mutual appreciation and understanding among diverse cultures.

His contributions to the world of film have also been noteworthy. Ma’s cello skills graced the soundtrack of Ang Lee’s critically acclaimed film “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” which earned four Academy Awards, including one for Best Original Score. Additionally, he has made memorable appearances on television shows like “The West Wing,” “Sesame Street,” and even “The Simpsons.”

In the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Yo-Yo Ma’s music provided solace and healing for a grieving nation. He was asked to perform at the ceremonies marking the first anniversary of the tragic event, demonstrating the profound impact of music on humanity.

In recognition of his immense contributions to the arts and culture, Ma has received numerous honors, including the National Medal of Arts in 2001 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2010. He currently serves as a UN Messenger of Peace, using his influence to advocate for unity and social change through the power of music.

Despite his global fame and success, Yo-Yo Ma remains grounded in his personal life. He has been married to his partner Jill Horner since 1978, and together they have a son and a daughter. The Ma family resides in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where the renowned cellist continues to inspire audiences with his exceptional performances.

“Passion is one great force that unleashes creativity because if you’re passionate about something, then you’re more willing to take risks,” says Yo-Yo Ma. His passion for music and dedication to bridging cultures have earned him admiration and respect worldwide. As he continues to push the boundaries of classical music and inspire a new generation of musicians, Yo-Yo Ma’s legacy will forever resonate in the hearts of those touched by his music and his unwavering belief in the universal language of harmony.

JAN LISIECKI

Jan Lisiecki: A Refreshing Musical Journey

November 2022

In the captivating world of classical music, a talented Canadian pianist has stolen the spotlight with his incredible skills and endless curiosity. Meet Jan Lisiecki, a musical genius who has won the hearts of audiences everywhere and embarks on a journey of melodies like no other.

Jan’s musical story started in an unexpected way. Coming from a family without a musical background, he stumbled upon the piano when someone suggested he try playing an instrument. Little did he know that this simple suggestion would open the door to a remarkable musical adventure that would touch the hearts of countless music lovers.

At the beginning, Jan took a relaxed approach to learning, practicing only a few minutes each week and having short piano lessons. But what makes him unique is his insatiable hunger for knowledge. The piano became more than just an instrument; it became a gateway to endless possibilities, revealing a world of vibrant colors and captivating stories conveyed through music.

Unlike the typical tale of prodigies guided by influential mentors, Jan’s love for music blossomed from within. Each melody spoke directly to his soul, and every piece he played felt like an exciting journey into unexplored emotional territories. While others followed rigid paths, Jan embraced the joy of exploration, letting his curiosity lead the way.

Jan’s musical journey led him through a diverse repertoire. From timeless pieces by Bach to masterful compositions by Mozart, every note left a lasting impression on his heart and mind. As his fingers danced on the keys, he found himself evolving, learning, and uncovering the profound depths of music’s universe.

What sets Jan Lisiecki apart is his down-to-earth nature. Unaffected by the spotlight, he cherishes each concert as a unique experience, living in the present moment. Past achievements and future goals take a backseat as he immerses himself in the pure magic of music.

With his eyes set on the horizon, Jan’s musical expedition knows no bounds. Each piece he masters opens new doors to unexplored realms of artistic expression. The future remains an open canvas, waiting for Jan’s fingers to paint it with melodies that stir the soul and touch the heart.

Even amidst a bustling tour schedule, Jan understands the importance of balance and rejuvenation. Stepping away from the piano isn’t a retreat; it’s a chance to embrace life’s simple pleasures – skiing, swimming, biking, and leisurely pursuits. These moments of respite breathe life into his artistry, infusing his performances with an authentic and emotional depth.

Jan Lisiecki stands tall as a beacon of hope in a competitive world, reminding us that music is not just a destination; it’s an extraordinary journey. It’s an adventure where every note is a step towards the heart of our shared humanity, an exploration of the boundless emotions that reside within us all. With Jan at the helm, the mesmerizing melodies of his piano invite us to join him on a captivating musical voyage of a lifetime.

HÉLÈNE GRIMAUD

Five senses devoted to music

April 2022

Originally from France and residing in the United States, Hélène Grimaud is considered one of the most important pianists in the international arena. She performs as a soloist with the best orchestras in the world and with the most prestigious conductors. She has been recording exclusively for Deutsche Grammophon since 2002 and is a truly versatile and charming artist with an unlimited passion for music. 

When she was only fifteen, she recorded Sergei Rachmaninov’s Second Sonata, a profuse work that requires highly demanding piano skills, a deep knowledge of sound, a rich musicality and a great inspiration to be interpreted. 

Her performances have been praised by critics, receiving mentions and awards, including the Cannes Music Recording of the Year, the Diapason d’Or, Grand Prix du Disque and the Record Academy Prize of Japan, for his refined musical style. 

Because of her particular and personal style of interpretation, she has sometimes been compared to the pianist Glenn Gould. 

Renowned internationally for her pianistic soul, Grimaud feels the music as something beyond acoustics.  It was at the early age of 11, while playing a Bach prelude that Grimaud discovered that she had the gift of synesthesia (the fusion of one sense with another). While she was playing the piano she saw “a shapeless spot, between orange and red.” This ability improved her memorizing abilities and made her playing more intuitive. She assures that still nowadays, especially when she’s performing live, the colors continue to appear spontaneously, each one connected to a particular note: the D minor is always dark blue; the C minor, black; G is green, F is red, and B-flat is yellow. 

Her interpretations are always unique and always inflicted by her personal touch of enigma, adventure and natural elements. In her words, she does not consider “classical music as something beautiful, elegant, refined and polished, I like it because it makes you accept risks, because it implies adventure, emotion and instinct”. 

In addition to her virtuosity on the piano, Grimaud is a writer and a fierce defender of animals, especially wolves. When she was already a famous pianist, she met Alawa, a wolf who owned by her neighbor and they soon became an inseparable. After the wolf’s death, she founded the “Wolf Conservation Center” in New York State, an institution dedicated to protecting the species and which also functions as a nursery. She is also working to educate children about the need to protect nature. Currently, the center cares for around twenty wolves. 

JOSHUA BELL

One of the most celebrated violinists of his era

March 2022

With a career spanning over thirty years as a soloist, chamber musician, recording artist, conductor and director, Joshua Bell is one of the most celebrated violinists of his era.  Born in December 9, 1967 in Bloomington, Indiana (USA) Bell received his first violin at age four from his parents after they found he was making music by stretching rubber bands to different lengths on dresser drawers. His violin studies became serious when at age 12 he attended the Meadowmount music camp in Westport, New York. There he met the renowned teacher Josef Gingold of Indiana University, who later became his mentor. Bell made his orchestral debut at age 14 with Riccardo Muti and the Philadelphia Orchestra—becoming the orchestra’s youngest-ever soloist—and he made his first recording at age 18.  

He received a Grammy Award for his performance in the first recording of Nicholas Maw’s Violin Concerto (2000) and in 2007 he received the prestigious Avery Fisher Prize.  In 2011 Bell was named music director of the acclaimed Academy of St. Martin in the Fields chamber ensemble, established by British violinist and conductor Neville Marriner. 

Bell maintains an avid interest in film music, commemorating the 20th anniversary of The Red Violin (1998) in 2018-19. The film’s Academy-Award winning soundtrack features Bell as soloist; in 2018, Bell brings the film with live orchestra to various summer festivals and the New York Philharmonic.  

Committed to expanding classical music’s social and cultural impact, Bell has collaborated with peers including Chick Corea, Wynton Marsalis, Chris Botti, Anoushka Shankar, Frankie Moreno, Josh Groban, and Sting. In Spring 2019, Bell joins his longtime friends, cellist Steven Isserlis and pianist Jeremy Denk, for a ten-city American trio tour. 

As an exclusive Sony Classical artist, Bell has recorded more than 40 albums garnering Grammy®, Mercury®, Gramophone and ECHO Klassik awards.  

In 2007, a Pulitzer Prize–winning Washington Post story centered on Bell performing incognito in a Washington, D.C. metro station sparked an ongoing conversation about artistic reception and context. Bell decided to play on the metro station to see how many people will stop to listen and how much money would he get. 

Hardly anyone stopped. In fact, out of 1,097 people that passed Bell by, only 27 gave any money, and only 7 actually stopped and listened for any length of time. He got exactly $52.17 Which is not very much. And $20 of that was from the one person who did recognize him. On the flipside, though, the story went viral, drawing attention to people’s attitudes to buskers and how they’re often ignored. Bell returned to the subway in September 2014, but this time his appearance was announced and it was a massive triumph with thousands of attendees.  

Bell’s most precious treasure is his instrument: “My violin is more than 300 years old and it’s believed to be one of only five or six instruments made in 1713 by Antonio Stradivari in Cremona, Italy. The violin has belonged to many, including the English violinist George Alfred Gibson.” 

LETICIA MORENO

The violin warrior

The 36 year old Spanish violinist Leticia Moreno began her musical education in Boston at the young age of three on violin and piano with the Suzuki Method, giving her first recitals when she was only five years old. In 1996 she studied six years with the legendary professor Zakhar Bron at the Reina Sofía School of Music and in Germany at the Köln Musikhochschule. 

At twelve she was giving concerts throughout Europe. 

One of her great mentors was Mstislav Rostropovich, the best cellist in history who once told her that she was a ‘guardian of music’. 

Leticia Moreno studied at the Reina Sofia School of Music in Madrid, the Cologne School of Music and the Guildhall School in London. She has won international violin competitions and was nominated for the FPdGi Arts and Letters Award. 

At the age of nineteen she won the first prize in the Kreisler competition, playing with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra the Violin Concerto Opus 99 by Dimitri Shostakovich. Her performance was described as “unprecedented” by specialized critics, while the Austrian media defined her as “the new Martha Argerich of the violin.” 

Being awarded as Echo Rising Star in 2012 projected her internationally and led her into the most relevant European venues until she became one of the great talents of the violin. Versatile and meticulous, Moreno has worked with top conductors such as Yuri Temirkànov, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Zubin Mehta, Krzysztof Penderecki, Josep Pons and Juanjo Mena, among others, and has collaborated with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, St. Philharmonic Petersburg, Mariinsky Orchestra, as well as with the main Spanish and Latin American orchestras. 

Following the release of his latest CD dedicated to Astor Piazzolla (Deutsche Grammophon) with the London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by A. Orozco-Estrada, she has become a world reference in the repertoire of the Argentine composer. Moreno has also recorded two CDs with Deutche Grammophon: Spanish Landscapes and the Violin Concerto no. 1 Shostakovich with the St. Petersburg Philharmonic conducted by I. Temirkanov. 

For her, music is more than a way of life. Her violin, she claims, is a “little extension” of her body. “It is with what I can be more sincere, something with which I can make people happy, and this makes me very happy too. It is liberating, to be able to play this instrument and that speaks back to you. It is an important company ” 

This 2020/21 season will debut with the São Paolo Symphony Orchestra under the baton of J. Pons, with the Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra and with the Royal Northern Sinfonia and A. Méndez. She will also be the resident artist of the Valencia Orchestra and will perform with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields.

GUSTAVO DUDAMEL

Gustavo Dudamel: A Trailblazing Journey in the World of Music and Social Impact

August 2021

The world of music is often associated with seasoned artists who have spent decades honing their craft, but Gustavo Dudamel is a remarkable exception to this norm. Born in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, in 1981, Dudamel began his journey as a conductor at a mere eleven years old – a feat almost unheard of in the classical music world. Now, at the age of forty, he stands tall with an impressive career as the music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic (LA Phil) and a resume adorned with achievements that rival the most seasoned conductors.

Dudamel’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. His affiliation with luxury watch brand Rolex as their brand ambassador since 2008 speaks volumes about his global recognition as a musical prodigy. In a rather unexpected turn of events, Dudamel’s life inspired the hit TV series “Mozart in the Jungle,” which chronicled the adventures of a young conductor, Rodrigo de Souza, as he navigates the New York Philharmonic. This series further catapulted Dudamel’s popularity and solidified his reputation as a musical trailblazer.

One of Dudamel’s most notable achievements was leading the Youth Orchestra Los Angeles (YOLA) during the halftime show of the Superbowl in 2016. This momentous event not only showcased his immense talent but also brought classical music to an unprecedented audience. Another milestone etched in Dudamel’s illustrious career is becoming the youngest conductor to lead the televised New Year’s Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic in 2017, a historical moment in classical music history.

Dudamel’s impressive list of accolades includes three Grammy awards, recognizing his exceptional talent and contribution to the world of classical music. His impact on the global stage was further solidified when he received the prestigious Gold Medal for Merit in Fine Arts from the Spanish Ministry of Culture and Sports in 2020, acknowledging his influence as a cultural icon.

However, Dudamel’s passion for music goes beyond accolades and prestigious appointments. His devotion to music education and social impact has been the driving force behind his groundbreaking initiatives. A significant turning point in Dudamel’s life came with his encounter with maestro José Antonio Abreu, the visionary behind Venezuela’s National System of Youth and Children’s Orchestras (El Sistema). Under Abreu’s guidance, Dudamel realized the transformative power of music in the lives of young people.

Fueled by this revelation, Dudamel has dedicated a substantial portion of his life to championing music education and making it accessible to all. In 2007, he founded the Dudamel Foundation, aiming to promote music as a fundamental human right and a catalyst for learning, integration, and social change. With his wife, María Valverde, serving as co-president, the foundation has collaborated with renowned brands like Rolex and embarked on remarkable projects, like Symphony, an immersive virtual reality experience that brings music to new dimensions.

One of the crown jewels in Dudamel’s mission is YOLA, which was a condition he set forth to accept the role of music director at LA Phil in 2009. YOLA provides music education and orchestral training to underprivileged children, instilling in them not just musical skills but life values and leadership qualities. The program has grown from serving 80 students in its inaugural year to over 1,300 students annually, making a profound impact on countless young lives.

Beyond his impressive musical journey, Dudamel is known for his innovative programming and collaborations, bridging the gap between classical music and popular culture. His willingness to collaborate with artists from different genres, including René (Residente of Calle 13), Katy Perry, and Chris Martin, has brought classical music to new audiences and reshaped its perception among the younger generation.

Dudamel’s remarkable journey as a musician and humanitarian showcases the transformative power of music and its potential to break barriers. His dedication to education and social impact reflects an unwavering belief in the ability of music to inspire, uplift, and change lives. As the world looks to the future, Gustavo Dudamel stands as a guiding light, showing us that music can truly be a force for positive change in society.

LANG LANG

The star pianist

March 2021

Now 38 years of age, Chinese musician Lang Lang first started playing the piano at the tender age of three. Lang Lang explains: “I started lessons when I was three and a half. In the beginning I just played a little but, when I was five, I played my first recital, and from that point my parents had high hopes for me, especially my father.”  

He won the Shenyang Competition and gave his first public recital before the age of five and entered Beijing’s Central Music Conservatory aged nine. But, having difficulties with his lessons, was expelled from his piano tutor’s studio for “lack of talent”. In 1997, at 15 years of age, Lang and his father left for the United States, where Lang began studies with Gary Graffman at the Curtis Institute of Music.  He was just 17 when his career took off and he became an overnight sensation after playing Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto at the “Gala of the Century” with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. 

Lang Lang has played at the White House and at the opening of the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008. The “Lang Lang effect” is credited with inspiring China’s 40 million classical piano students.  his achievements include a nomination for a 2007 Grammy Award and in 2009, he was listed in Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World. His name, Lang Lang, has even become a trademark.  

The discography of classical pianist Lang Lang includes nine studio albums, four live albums, one single, one compilation, two soundtracks, and three contributions to releases not under his name. His first album was released in 2000 under Telarc International Corporation. In 2003, he signed a contract with Deutsche Grammophon and released several albums with them. In February 2010, Lang Lang signed with Sony Classic.  

Lang Lang has recorded two soundtracks, including the score by Alexandre Desplat for the 2007 movie The Painted Veil. He has contributed to several albums of other musicians, including Andrea Bocelli’s greatest hits album, The Best of Andrea Bocelli: Vivere. For the piece “Time for Dreams,” on his 2008 album Dreams of China, Lang Lang collaborated with German electronica musician Christopher von Deylen. He has achieved considerable commercial and critical success. His albums have ranked on Billboard charts, including the Top Classical Albums chart. 

In an unfortunate turn of events, the star was diagnosed with tendonitis in 2017 and his arm injury became so severe that it could have cost him his career. Many pianists suffer with the condition as a result of their extensive playing – but luckily, Lang Lang made a speedy recovery. 

Lang Lang married fellow pianist Gina Alice Redlinger in June 2019, and recently the acclaimed Chinese pianist revealed on Twitter that he is to be a father for the first time. “We could not be happier and cannot wait to welcome our new family member to the world.” said the artist. 

All the details about Lang Lang’s story and further concert dates can be found in his website: langlangofficial.com