Lang Lang honored with star on Walk of Fame
Chinese pianist Lang Lang was honored with the 2,778th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles on Wednesday, making him the first Asian pianist to receive a star on the iconic sidewalk.
Lang’s inclusion on the Walk of Fame in the category of live performance places him among a select group of Asian performers, including luminaries such as Anna May Wong, Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, James Hong, Lucy Liu, Mako and Ming-Na Wen.
“The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Lang Lang’s outstanding contributions to the world of classical music and celebrate his extraordinary talent with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame,” Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, said in a statement.
Steve Nissen, president and CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, expressed pride in welcoming Lang.
“We hope to bring the message of peace and unity through Lang Lang’s star on the Walk of Fame forever,” Nissen told China Daily.
Dickon Stainer, president and CEO of Global Classics & Jazz, said, “From a young boy in Shenyang, China, to this iconic location, one underlying principle has remained constant: his brilliance as a musician.”
During the celebration, Lang expressed his gratitude by performing two piano pieces live, one was Chinese folk song Molihua (Jasmine Flower) and the second was Ritual Fire Dance by Spanish composer Manuel de Falla.
Cultural bridge
“Music can express the heritage of different cultures,” Lang told China Daily. “I hope that by receiving this honor today, the mainstream art world in the West can see the artistic talents of our Chinese people. I hope that I can serve as a bridge for cultural exchanges between China and the United States.”
As an internationally acclaimed pianist, Lang has achieved unparalleled success in the world of classical music. With millions of albums sold globally, he has consistently topped classical music charts while also gaining mainstream recognition.
Time magazine recognized him as one of the 100 most influential people in the world. Over the past decade, Lang has graced prestigious stages, performing for esteemed figures such as former US president Barack Obama and the late Queen Elizabeth II. His sold-out concerts with leading orchestras and conductors have captivated audiences worldwide.
Lang’s presence extends beyond the concert hall, as he has also made significant appearances on television. His performances at high-profile events, such as the opening ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the final match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, have been witnessed by millions around the globe.