Chongqing - World-renowned pianist Lang Lang has taken on a new role as cultural ambassador for Chongqing, launching a series of events designed to link music, tourism, and international exchange.
The event site. (Photo provided by the interviewee)
Lang Lang Deepens Ties with Chongqing
At a ceremony in the Chongqing Grand Theatre, Lang Lang was officially named Chief Musician of the Western China Music Industry Development Alliance. Established in July, the alliance is led by Chongqing Culture & Tourism Group and aims to foster a collaborative, sustainable ecosystem for the music industry across Western cities. Lang Lang’s appointment is expected to add both prestige and vitality to the initiative.
The pianist also announced the donation of two “Happy Keys” music classrooms to schools in Wanzhou District and Zhongxian County through the Lang Lang International Music Foundation. Each classroom will be equipped with 40 pianos, teaching materials, and faculty training. The foundation will further organize student competitions and regional performances to nurture local musical talent.
Lang Lang was appointed Chief Musician of the Western China Music Industry Development Alliance. (Photo provided by the interviewee)
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of a three-year cooperation plan. Lang Lang confirmed that “Lang Lang Art World,” his international piano education and performance center, will open in Chongqing’s Liangjiang New Area. Already established in Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Hangzhou, the center integrates piano courses, competitions, and concerts, and will now serve as a hub for global cultural exchange in Chongqing.
Over the next three years, Lang Lang and his foundation will actively participate in promoting Chongqing’s culture and tourism on the global stage.
A Floating Concert on the Yangtze
That evening, the “Golden Cruise Time Concert” transformed the Yangtze River into a stage. Opening with traditional performances such as the “Anzi Miao songs” and “Chuanjiang chants”—both listed as national intangible cultural heritage—the concert also featured local artists performing classics.
Lang Lang’s piano solos, including “La La Land” and “Mazurka”, were the centerpiece of the night. The event concluded with a stirring rendition of “I Love You, China”, performed by the full ensemble with Lang Lang on piano.
Held aboard the Yangtze River Golden Cruise, the concert blended Chongqing’s iconic nightscape with music and heritage, creating a “floating cultural palace” that highlighted the city’s unique fusion of tradition and modernity.
Lang Lang performs brilliantly at the event. (Photo provided by the interviewee)
Beyond the stage, Lang Lang and his team explored Chongqing’s cultural landmarks and cuisine. At a creative dining showcase in Liangjiang Holiday Hotel and a visit to the historic No. 85 Creative Mansion, he praised the city’s charm, describing Chongqing as “a place that makes you never want to leave.”
According to Ran Bin, Party Secretary and Chairman of Chongqing Culture & Tourism Group, the city’s music industry reached an output value of RMB 15 billion (about USD 2.1 billion) in 2024, a 25% year-on-year increase. Current efforts include a global call for songs, dramas, and festivals, as well as themed tourism routes centered on music.
“Working with world-class musicians like Lang Lang will accelerate the high-quality integration of culture and tourism in Chongqing and help the city strike a powerful new chord,” Ran said.