During an online press conference, during which he presented his new album, famous Chinese pianist Lang Lang explained that the excellent performances of Asian pianists in recent international competitions are due to intensive training and their regular participation in competitions.
Lang Lang received a standing ovation this Tuesday at the Philharmonie de Paris where he gave a recital with Cecilia Bartoli. The day before, while he presented his new album to journalists Piano book 2 (Deutsche Grammophon), a double-CD that brings together classic masterpieces; cult video game themes; cartoons and films, the Chinese pianist was questioned about the dazzling domination of pianists of Asian origin in major world competitions.
This is demonstrated in particular by the results of the recent Chopin competition in Warsaw, the first five places of which were won by Chinese, Chinese-American and Japanese pianists, or the victory of the young South Korean pianist Kim Sae-hyun during the Long-Thibaud Competition last March in Paris. Without forgetting Aristo Cham, originally from Hong Kong, winner in June of the Van Cliburn competition, where he succeeded Yunchan Lim, also South Korean, crowned in 2022.
“I find it very positive that Asian artists inspire each other”
The South Korean example which, for Lang Lang, would be a source of motivation for all young Asian pianists. “ Lately, Korean pianists seem to be winning first places in almost all major international competitions. I think Chinese pianists are greatly inspired by their Korean counterparts,” Lang Lang said, adding: “I find it very positive that Asian artists inspire each other and achieve excellent results in competition.”
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For the great Chinese pianist: “ It seems that Asian artists train more diligently. Thanks to this intensive training, I believe that their precision meets the high demands of competitions. I also think that, participating in many competitions, they are better accustomed to the competitive environment « .
An emulation in which Lang Lang actively participates, through the foundation he created after the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008 but also through the studio which bears his name and which he inaugurated in 2021 at the national arts and entertainment center in Beijing.
Philippe Gault
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