Chinese pianist launches European tour

Chinese pianist Li Yundi kick-started his 2014 European tour on Tuesday evening in London, performing many well-known Western and Chinese music.

During the two-hour performance at the Royal Festival Hall, Li played Schumann's Fantasie in C, Liszt's Tarantella, and Beethoven's powerful "Appassionata" Sonata. He also played some Chinese folk music for the British audience.

"As the first show of the European tour this year, I think I performed well. The audience is so enthusiastic, and I saw a lot of old friends. I will hold a performance in London next year," Li told Xinhua.

"I'd like to add some Chinese elements in each of my concert, and I hope more excellent Chinese music could be created by Chinese composers," he added.

Li's performance is well received by the British audience. Nicholas Beale, a business executive, said Li's performance was amazing and that he is truly one of the world's greatest pianists.

"I wish I knew more about Chinese music, it's a great way to learn more about the wonderful and fascinating Chinese culture by the pieces that performed by Li," Beale said.

Nat Wei, a British Chinese member of the House of Lords, said: "I thought it was particularly touching when Li played Chinese folk songs in London. As so many Chinese audiences were there, I'm sure that they felt very proud at that moment."

Li will tour Europe in more than 20 cities from February to April, including St. Petersburg, Warsaw and Prague.