When Lang Lang showed up, the young pianists cheered loudly, giving him a warm welcome. Lang Lang had a solo recital scheduled at the venue that evening. Toward the end of the performance, the organisers arranged for 64 young pianists to join him in playing the Radetzky March and My People, My Country. Perhaps the next Lang Lang might emerge from among them.
At the very least, early exposure and immersion may make them music lovers. Children are our future, especially in classical music — often seen as the pinnacle of high culture. Can it continue to hold universal value? Does it have a future? In , Swiss philosopher and sinologist Iso Kern asked if young people would still be interested in classical music in 20 years.
It was a mindblowing question. At the time, Lang Lang expressed great optimism, highlighting the enthusiasm and talent for classical music shown by young people in China and Asia. He argued that as long as classical music is performed well and properly, there will be no need to fear a lack of interest among young people.
The pianist firmly believed that interest in classical music would not dwindle, nor would the classical music industry decline. He said this not because he is a pianist, but because he has seen the awe inspired by countless classical concerts in audience members, the passion of numerous classical music enthusiasts, the success of many classical music compositions, and how classical music festivals and events continue to thrive.
One year on, during breaks in his rehearsals and performance in Tianjin, Lang Lang reiterates his confidence in the future of classical music. But audiences have gradually returned, and people quickly realised the importance of sharing experiences in concert halls. Personally, I believe classical music will never disappear, but we can also do more. For example, my good friend Ray Chen has done many bold experiments on social media, which I find fascinating.
