Lang Lang is one of the hottest classical pianists in the world today. This week the Kennedy Center welcomes his residency, a unique opportunity for audiences to experience his talent and personality in six memorable performances. He comes at the invitation of his mentor and close friend, National Symphony Orchestra Music Director Christoph Eschenbach, who discovered the gifted in 1999.

“I found a paper on my desk from a young man who wanted an audition,” Eschenbach said. “I had no idea who he was, but I’m always interested in young musicians and try to find time for them. At our meeting, he gave me a long list of repertoire, so I chose a Haydn sonata, which is always a key to musicality. He played it beautifully. Next, I asked for a Brahms intermezzo. He played it with profound feeling. I was stunned and kept asking for more.