Lang Lang's no-show hits a sour note

Bad news for fans expecting to be dazzled by Lang Lang (pictured) on Monday night. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department just announced the pianist has had to back out of his performance with the China Philharmonic Orchestra at the Cultural Centre on July 2, due to 'personal reasons'.

Another renowned classical artist, Yin Chengzong, will fill in and play the Yellow River Piano Concerto instead. No further details about the cancellation were given, but if patrons prefer a refund they have until Monday to exchange their tickets at Urbtix outlets at the Cultural Centre or City Hall. You can also call 2268 7321.

Interestingly, it seems it's not only fans who are extremely bummed by this turnabout: the press release said, 'the department was deeply disappointed that Lang Lang would not be performing'. Hmmm, does this mean a complaint will be sent up the bureaucracy to mainland cultural officials? Since there is no problem on Lang Lang's present German tour, perhaps he is just snubbing his new home on the week of a very big anniversary?