Pianist Richard Clyderman kicks off China tour

In the 1990s, it was pianist Richard Clyderman who introduced China to western classical music. Many of his works, like "Autumn Leaves", have become must-play pieces for millions of children in China learning to play the piano. Now in his sixties, Clyderman is back, to spread more musical joy.

Even in small cities like Bazhou in Hebei province, the presence of the "piano prince" still creates quite a buzz. From "Poem to Adlin" to "Starry Sky", Clyderman never fails to bring a romantic accent to the keyboard. After that, the repertoire becomes "When East meets the West".

Four Chinese artists take turns to play along, treating audiences to rearranged Chinese classical pieces, including the "Butterfly Lovers".

"For me working with these Chinese artists is a huge challenge, because they're all very professional. Besides, mixing piano and traditional Chinese musical instruments is no easy task," Clyderman said.

Then comes the climax of the evening, when 20 little pianists joined Clyderman to play "I Love Beijing Tiananmen". It's a special segment which the piano maestro calls his "interesting China complex".

"China is really a beautiful country, and I always feel something different every time I travel here. I was really lucky to host so many concerts in China," he said.

Clyderman first made his debut in China in 1992, and was the first foreign pianist to perform here. In the past two decades, he has performed in more than 70 cities and presented up to 200 live shows.