Young Talents from the Lang Lang International Music Foundation® Join the isa – International Summer Academy of the mdw (University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna) for the[...]

The isa - International Summer Academy of the mdw (University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna) is entering a new partnership with the Lang Lang International Music Foundation in the summer of 2026. For the first time, 12 Young Scholars™ from the Lang Lang International Music Foundation will participate in the isa in Vienna, marking an important milestone for both institutions.

The Lang Lang International Music Foundation supports exceptionally gifted young pianists around the world through its Young Scholars™ program, working in partnership with leading conservatories, universities, and cultural institutions. The selected Young Scholars™, aged 14 to 18, are already among the most promising pianists of their generation, with many having earned top prizes at major international competitions.

As the mdw's largest summer event, the isa brings together young musicians from around the world each year for distinguished masterclasses, workshops, artistic exchanges, and public performances. From July 22 to August 2, 2026, the Foundation's Young Scholars™ will participate in the isa26 piano masterclasses on the mdw campus. Alongside their artistic training, a central focus will be the opportunity to engage with students, faculty members, and young artists from diverse cultural and musical backgrounds.

"I am delighted that this collaboration enables us to join forces. The mdw and the Lang Lang International Music Foundation share a deep commitment to artistic excellence and social responsibility. I very much look forward to welcoming these outstanding young pianists to our isa," said Johannes Meissl, Vice-Rector, mdw & Artistic Director, isa.

"As an Austrian, it fills me with particular pride to bring these talented young pianists to Vienna. Our partnership with the isa of the mdw reflects a shared commitment to artistic excellence and educational opportunity, and I very much look forward to nurturing the next generation of musicians together," said Leszek Barwinski-Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Lang Lang International Music Foundation.

Through this significant partnership, the isa expands its international network while offering the Lang Lang International Music Foundation's Young Scholars™ a unique opportunity to engage with Vienna's rich musical heritage and vibrant artistic community.

For the mdw, the collaboration further enhances the international visibility of its artistic training programs. Together, artistic excellence and intercultural exchange reinforce Vienna's position as one of the world's leading centers for music education and artistic dialogue for the next generation of artists.

The new partnership also renews a longstanding connection. Several years ago, Lang Lang visited the mdw as a soloist with the Webern Symphony Orchestra and presented a masterclass for students. Now, for the first time, scholarship recipients from his Foundation will experience an intensive artistic and cultural immersion in Vienna as part of the isa. For more information please visit: https://www.isa-music.org/en/ .

About the Lang Lang International Music Foundation

Founded by world-renowned pianist Lang Lang in 2008, the Lang Lang International Music Foundation operates under the belief that music education is a fundamental right. The Lang Lang International Music Foundation stands as a powerful advocate for arts education. The foundation shines light on the importance of music education being taught using the "whole child" approach - which places priority on educating a student's social, emotional, cognitive, physical, psychological, and academic needs. This framework sets up children to reach their full potential regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. With innovative programs, dedicated partners, and a belief in every child's potential, the Lang Lang International Music Foundation is transforming the future of music education.

About the Young Scholars Program

Young Scholars is a prestigious three-year program for pianists aged 13-18. Over the course of three years, these students receive personalized mentorship, participate in intensive study programs, and perform at renowned festivals, concert halls, and Foundation events across the U.S., Europe, and China. At the heart of the program is Play It Forward-an initiative that encourages Scholars to share their talents through performances at schools, hospitals, and cultural centers, using music to inspire connection, compassion, and community.