NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?
SUMMARY
Lang Lang, one of the world's most famous classical pianists, discovered his passion for piano while growing up alongside other musicians in China. Today, he stands as a globally acclaimed classical pianist whose extraordinary talent has led him to perform with diverse musical legends. He shares his Brief But Spectacular take on loving what you play.
View the transcript of the story.
KEY TERMS
prodigy = a person gifted with rare talent, especially at a young age
News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- Who is Lang Lang and what is his background?
- How does Lang Lang remember his first experiences with piano?
- What was the first music that attracted Lang Lang to playing piano?
- Where did Lang Lang grow up, and what was it like there?
- Why has being a parent changed Lang Lang's approach to music?
FOCUS QUESTIONS
In this segment, Lang says that when he's performing, he always tries to "take my heart into somewhere, and then take my audience with me."
What do you think he means by this? Do you think feelings you have while you perform or create a work of art can affect the audience? If so, how?
Media literacy: Why do you think the producers of this show chose to highlight Lang's experiences over other artists?
WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO
What kinds of artistic expression are you most passionate about? What kinds of creativity allow you to "take your heart into" the project or performance, as Lang Lang describes it?
- First, make a list of artistic experiences you've had as an audience member or reader/viewer that have moved you in some way, or have been particularly memorable. This list could include music or stage performances, writing, visual arts or any other creative expression.
- Second, make a list of creative moments you have had that have allowed you to "take your heart" into them.
- Compare the lists -- what are some similarities you notice? What about differences?
Finally, use the time you have remaining to plan out your next creative project!
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