Lang Lang Releases Tony Ann’s Icarus from Upcoming Album Piano Book 2
Arranged for piano four hands, and performed by Lang Lang and Tony Ann,
Icarus comes out on 3 October 2025 – listen to it here
Piano Book 2 offers 32 miniature masterpieces for all generations,
curated from classical, contemporary and online culture
Pianist Lang Lang unveils his latest single, Icarus, featuring the music of innovative Chinese-Canadian composer and pianist Tony Ann. Released on 3 October 2025, this exclusive four-hands version is taken from Lang Lang’s upcoming album Piano Book 2 and performed by the two artists as a duo. Out worldwide on Deutsche Grammophon on 17 October, Piano Book 2 brings together iconic classical works, new contemporary pieces and themes from anime, films and video games.
“Icarus is a really beautiful piece, and one of my favourites on this album,” says Lang Lang. “Right from the start, you get a sense of departure – from earth into the universe. When I play Icarus, it feels as if I’m flying. I hope we will see more remarkable works like this from the next generation of composers.”
Tony Ann himself describes the work as a deeply personal project and a turning point in his creative journey. Conceived as a musical expression of longing, transformation and overcoming boundaries, it draws on the myth of Icarus flying too close to the sun, but aims to leave space for hope and the possibility of reaching new heights.
One of the leading young voices in today’s contemporary classical scene, Tony Ann is known for a unique style that bridges classical tradition and pop influences. He first gained international attention through social media, especially with his #playthatword series, and now has over 4 million followers. His output ranges from solo piano pieces to major collaborations with artists like The Chainsmokers and Don Diablo. He continues to broaden the genre with concept albums such as 360°, released earlier this year via Decca/Universal.
“Hearing Lang Lang play Icarus is an overwhelming and humbling experience,” says Tony Ann, who recently joined his colleague on stage during a spectacular Piano Book 2 launch event in Beijing. “His artistry captures both the hope and the risk at the heart of this music. It’s an honour to contribute to Piano Book 2 and to share this journey with listeners worldwide.”
Building on the triumph of his best-selling 2019 release Piano Book – a global phenomenon with over 1.2 billion streams to date – Lang Lang’s new collection of 32 carefully selected miniature masterpieces draws inspiration from the wishes of fans, modern educational practice, and repertoire especially close to his own heart. With its mix of classical favourites, contemporary works and highlights from today’s digital and popular culture, Piano Book 2 underlines Lang Lang’s vision: to inspire passion for the piano across generations, backgrounds and skill levels.
Previous digital singles from the album – Liszt’s Consolation No. 2 and Sadness and Sorrow from Naruto – are already available across all platforms.
