World-renowned pianist Lang Lang discusses how early music education shaped his life and his mission to empower the next generation through his foundation.
How did your early exposure to music education shape your life and career?
I was introduced to the piano at a very young age, and it became a central part of my life. The early exposure to music education instilled in me a deep love and passion for music. My parents and teachers always encouraged me to explore the depths of musical expression and creativity, which allowed me to develop a strong foundation in classical music. This early start helped me build the discipline needed to perfect my craft, and it provided opportunities to connect with audiences worldwide. The commitment and dedication I learned in those formative years have shaped not only my career, but also my approach to life, emphasizing the importance of passion, perseverance, and the power of music to inspire and connect people.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your journey where arts education played a transformative role? What inspired you to start the Lang Lang International Music Foundation?
A key moment in my journey was when I was accepted to study with Gary Grafman at the Curtis Institute of Music at age 14. My time in Philadelphia taught me how powerful music is in bringing people together and communicating deeply. This experience strengthened my belief in the need to provide young people with access to great music education.
This belief led me to start the Lang Lang International Music Foundation in 2008. I wanted to share the power of music with children worldwide. The foundation’s goal is to inspire and support the next generation of young musicians by giving them chances to learn, perform, and develop. Through the Keys Of Inspiration public school education program, I hope to help kids become more creative, confident, and able to express themselves.
What do you see as the most significant barriers to arts education, and how can we address them?
One of the most significant barriers to arts education is the lack of funding and resources, which often leads schools to cut music and arts programs. Additionally, there may be a lack of trained instructors and community support for the arts, making it difficult for students to access quality education in these fields.
To address these issues, advocacy for increased funding and policy support for arts education is crucial. Communities and organizations, like my foundation, can work together to provide resources, such as instruments and materials, and to support the training of educators. Creating partnerships between schools, arts organizations, and local governments can help integrate arts programs into the education system, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to benefit from the creative and expressive skills that arts education fosters. Engaging parents and community members can also build a supportive environment that values and prioritizes the arts as an essential part of education.
You’ve been a strong advocate for bringing music to underserved communities. What drives your passion for this work?
My passion for bringing music to underserved communities stems from my own experiences as a child. I know how transformative music education can be, providing not just a creative outlet, but also confidence and a sense of belonging. Many children in underserved areas may not have access to quality music education, but I believe that every child deserves the chance to explore their musical potential.
Seeing the impact that music can have on a child’s life — how it can inspire, uplift, and change their perspective — drives me to advocate for these communities. With my foundation, I want to ensure that all children, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to experience the joys and benefits of music. It’s about opening doors, creating hope, and empowering the next generation to express themselves through music. This work is not just a part of my career, but a personal mission to make a difference in the lives of young people through the power of music.
What is the Lang Lang International Music Foundation’s vision for the future of arts education globally?
The Lang Lang International Music Foundation envisions a future where arts education is accessible to all children around the world, regardless of their background or circumstances. We aim to create an inclusive environment where music and the arts are recognized as vital components of a well-rounded education.
Our vision is to empower young musicians through quality music education, inspiring them not only to develop their skills but also to express themselves creatively and confidently. By fostering partnerships with schools, communities, and organizations, we hope to build programs that provide resources, mentorship, and performance opportunities.
Ultimately, we believe that through music education, we can nurture creativity, promote cultural exchange, and cultivate a generation of compassionate and innovative individuals who will use their talents to enrich their communities and the world. Our goal is to ensure that every child has the chance to discover the transformative power of music in their lives.
