Internationally renowned pianist Lang Lang performed at the Hanoi Opera House on August 31 night in a show organised as part of the Hublot Loves Art programme produced by the Swiss luxury watch brand.

This was his second performance in Hanoi. The first was 15 years ago when he performed with his father.

This time, Lang Lang and his 12-year-old student performed songs like Military March by Franz Schubert, Waltz No 1 by Frederic Chopin, Coloured Clouds Chasing the Moon by Ren Guang and The Lark by Mily Balakirev.

Lang Lang learned that his autobiography Lang Lang, Journey of a Thousand Miles was translated into Vietnamese just ahead of the occasion.

“I’m touched that many Vietnamese people now will know more about me when my story is told in the Vietnamese language,” he said.

“I’m happy to see that many Vietnamese young people have a passion for art. I suggest that if they should believe in their choice, nurture their dreams and try hard, they will achieve what they want.”

“The success may not come tomorrow, but you will have it.”

Lang Lang realised that Hanoi has changed much after 15 years. He also acknowledged that many things have changed in his mind.

“Apart from being older, Lang Lang of today is also different from Lang Lang of 15 years ago,” he said.

“Before, I just wanted to prove myself and my technique, I want to be faster and challenge myself with difficult songs,” he said.

“Now, I earn more knowledge and experience. I know that music should be more emotional. So I try to bring emotion to the audience, instead of showing off my technique.”

He also told Viet Nam News that he wants to enjoy two famous foods of Vietnam, pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (Vietnamese baguette).

“The last time I was here I had the chance to enjoy water puppetry in Hanoi. After the concert, I want to discover more about the city’s landscape and culture.”

Voted by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world, besides being a virtuoso artist, Lang Lang has also worked as a piano instructor and social activist. He’s been one of the pioneer artists breathing the rhythm of the 21st century into classical music.

During his career, Lang Lang has performed for Pope Francis, Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama when he served as US President. He has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Royal Albert Hall and Sydney Opera House. He had shared the stage with other music legends such as Metallica, Herbie Hancock and Pharrell Williams.

VNS