Piano virtuoso Lang Lang on the teacher who didn’t believe in him

In this compelling episode of Q with Tom Power, legendary pianist Lang Lang reflects on his extraordinary journey from a child prodigy in China to one of the most celebrated classical musicians of our time. The conversation centers on the pivotal role of mentorship, particularly the teacher who dismissed him at age nine—only for Lang Lang to later return to the conservatory and find success under a more nurturing mentor. He shares the emotional toll of early pressure, the isolation of practicing in a crowded Beijing apartment, and the transformative impact of a teacher who shifted his focus from winning competitions to deep musical understanding. Lang Lang also discusses his new album, Piano Book Two, which features accessible classics like Beethoven’s 'Fur Elise' and video game themes, emphasizing the importance of treating all music with reverence. He expresses concern about AI musicians, arguing that perfection without emotion is not true artistry. The episode closes with a poignant performance of 'La La Land' on Glenn Gould’s iconic rehearsal piano, symbolizing the blend of tradition and innovation in his artistry.