Legendary HK pianist Liu Shikun stuns at Central Park Tower concert

Liu Shikun, the 86-year-old piano virtuoso, a living legend of Sino-American cultural exchange, delivered a breathtaking performance on the 100th floor of Central Park Tower, Manhattan's tallest skyscraper. 

He captivated an elite international audience with his powerful renditions of "My Motherland" and "Ode to the Yellow River."

The gala event, hosted by former ATV investor and Chinese political advisor Wang Zheng, drew prominent figures including UN Under-Secretary-General Xu Haoliang, Chinese Consul General in New York Chen Li, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams. 

Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, who is currently serving as Australia's Ambassador to the U.S., distributed copies of his book "The Avoidable War" to attendees during the celebratory evening.

A lifetime bridging cultures

Liu's appearance marked the latest chapter in his six-decade career as a cultural ambassador. His 1973 performance of Franz Liszt's "Hungarian Rhapsody No. 6" for the visiting Philadelphia Orchestra during their historic China tour first cemented his reputation—the entire orchestra reportedly gave a standing ovation that lasted several minutes.

The pianist's 1978 U.S. tour as deputy head of China's first artist delegation to America included a meeting with President Jimmy Carter.

His 1979 collaboration with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, performing Liszt's "Piano Concerto No. 1" in Beijing before touring America together, produced one of the era's best-selling "gold records."

Honors and hopes

Fresh from receiving the 40th Annual "Most Outstanding Asian Artist Lifetime Achievement Award" in August 2023—the highest honor from the New York-based awards established in 1981—Liu emphasized the power of music to transcend politics. 

He expressed to reporters that in these complex times, cultural exchange becomes even more vital to foster mutual understanding between nations. He highlighted that through music, people can share love, warmth, and ultimately, friendship.

The evening also featured an impromptu performance by Columbia University student, whom Liu warmly encouraged.