LANG LANG

This Chinese-born pianist enjoys a worldwide career as a soloist, with performances so exciting and dramatic that staid concertgoers stand up and cheer. He literally owes his fame and achievements to his musician father, who pushed, cajoled, schemed, screamed, threw his toys out the window and otherwise dominated Lang Lang’s childhood while leaving his mother as the family breadwinner. The Chinese music world of the 1980s and ’90s stressed technical proficiency through competitions; Lang Lang excelled. It was only while studying in Philadelphia that he learned about musicianship. A last-minute substitution for a scheduled performer brought him fame and a career. American readers will be struck by the harshness of his childhood, the petty jealousies of his teachers and his maniacal daily practice schedule. It’s a fascinating and engrossing portrait of a different life—and not just for those considering a career in music: It’s also food for thought for soccer moms and dads. The author includes a listing of his favorite things and favorite Western composers. Adapted from Lang Lang’s autobiography for adults. (Memoir. 12 & up)