Young Scholars™

Nurturing Tomorrow’s Music Leaders

The Lang Lang Young Scholars Program, created by the Lang Lang International Music Foundation®, supports exceptionally talented pianists ages 13–18 at a pivotal stage in their artistic journey. Since 2008, more than 60 young musicians from around the world have gained world-class mentorship, high-profile performance opportunities, and experiences that shape them as artists and as people.

Music as a Universal Language

At the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, we believe music is more than an art form. It is a universal language that connects people, brings healing, and inspires change. By nurturing the next generation of musical leaders, the Young Scholars Program helps this language continue to resonate in communities everywhere.

What Makes the Young Scholars Program One of a Kind

The Lang Lang Young Scholars Program is not just another music fellowship. It is one of the most prestigious platforms in the world for young pianists, offering experiences they cannot find anywhere else.

Every three years, a small group of extraordinary pianists is selected by a panel of world-renowned artistic advisors. This class of Scholars becomes part of an elite circle that receives mentorship directly from Lang Lang and leading faculty at the world’s top conservatories.

The program offers:
• Unmatched performance opportunities on some of the most iconic stages in the world
• Direct mentorship from internationally celebrated artists and educators
• Cultural immersion through global academies and regional hubs in the U.S. & Canada, Europe, and Asia
• A worldwide artistic community where lifelong friendships and collaborations begin

Today, just 17 Young Scholars across the globe are chosen to represent the program. The next class will begin in 2027, with applications opening in Fall 2026.

To be a Young Scholar is to step into a legacy of excellence, artistry, and purpose. It is a life-changing experience that shapes not only great musicians, but future leaders of the global music community.
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Performance at the Core

Performance is central to the Young Scholars experience. Students appear in venues ranging from local concert halls to some of the world’s most prestigious stages. They perform with fellow musicians, take part in the Foundation’s gala events, and often share the spotlight with Lang Lang and other celebrated artists.

Recent highlights include:
• Carnegie Hall, New York
• The Great Wall of China
• Aspen Music Festival
• Claridge’s Hotel, London
• Saarbrücken Festival
• Andermatt Festival

Global Piano Academies

The Global Piano Academies are the heart of the program. Every year during the three-year cycle, all Scholars come together for intensive residencies where they live, learn, and perform as a group.

In 2025, Academies were hosted at:
• The Central Conservatory of Music, Beijing, China
• The Cleveland Institute of Music, Cleveland, Ohio
• The Interlochen Center for the Arts, Interlochen, Michigan

These experiences strengthen musical excellence while also sparking lifelong friendships.

Highlights Around the World

Beijing
• Experiencing daily life at the Central Conservatory of Music
• Performing with Lang Lang at the Great Wall of China
• Walking through the Forbidden City and other historic landmarks
• Celebrating with families in traditional Chinese style

Cleveland
• Masterclasses with world-renowned pianists Antonio Pompa-Baldi, Ilya Itin, and Dr. Daria Rabotkina
• Sharing music with children at a local summer camp
• Exploring Cleveland’s rich cultural scene alongside fellow Scholars

Interlochen
• Practicing in private cabins surrounded by Michigan’s forests and lakes
• Coaching with Dr. Seth Myers and Dr. Kara Huber
• Evenings of s’mores, tie-dye, and lakeside fun
• Performing at a community block party in Traverse City
• Recording live sessions with Interlochen Public Radio

Masterclasses with the World’s Finest

Young Scholars receive mentorship from Lang Lang himself and leading faculty from institutions including:

• Juilliard School
• Royal Academy of Music, London
• Curtis Institute of Music
• Eastman School of Music
• Oberlin College
• Manhattan School of Music

Music with Purpose: The Music Heals™ Initiative

Beyond performance, Scholars learn to use music in service of others. Through our Music Heals™ initiative, they bring joy and comfort to classrooms, hospitals, bereavement centers, and underserved communities. They experience firsthand the healing power of music and the responsibility that comes with using their talent to help others.

“We don’t just want our Scholars to play music. We want them to understand how to make a difference through music.” —Lang Lang

Your Support Makes This Possible

Every performance, every masterclass, and every moment of inspiration is made possible by our supporters. By investing in the Young Scholars Program, you help shape the future of music and empower a generation of artists to change the world through their gift.