Meanwhile, his example does not only serve as an inspiration to thousands of young Chinese, it has also changed the very image of classical music in the West.
It is thanks to Lang Lang that young musicians who want to gain the respect of the professional world no longer have to conform to a "subdued" persona. It is now acceptable for a serious classical artist to be flamboyant and to even present a "cool" identity.
And it is no longer a contradiction that a relatively young artist not only shines through his artistic achievements and personal integrity but also profits financially from his rise to world stardom. We have finally stepped away from the romantic notion of the poor and suffering artist. The audience embraces success, and the "new classical artist" endorsing high-end products has become a familiar sight.
And as Lang supported UNICEF in Zanzibar in 2004, it is no longer the exclusive domain of pop singers and movie stars to use their fame to draw attention to humanitarian issues.
Despite the fact that music critics remain divided on the Lang Lang phenomenon, one cannot underestimate the influence of the "poster boy" effect on the marketing of classical music and musicians, intertwining art and commerce in a sophisticated manner.Never before have artists reached out and communicated with their audiences through so many channels and in such a personal way.
Changes within the music industry also made structural adjustments in the approach to marketing necessary.
Steinway and Sons, for example, is hoping to offset declining sales of their pianos in the West by marketing a child-friendly "Lang Lang piano," complete with chalkboards, in the Far East. This piano would allow children to express their creativity beyond piano practice.
The powerful concept of an East-West connection is vibrating with vast potential worthy of celebration.
Article comments
1 - andrea Russel
the pianos don't look golden to me - they look black