Pianist and his protege perform dialogue in masterful harmony

"It was my first real taste of professional discipline — tight schedules and serious expectations. It helped me understand how to be a soloist and a true part of an ensemble," she recalls.

Later next month, Zeng and Kong will bring Poulenc's concerto to another stage. On June 22, they'll perform with the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra under the baton of conductor Zhang Guoyong at Xinghai Concert Hall in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.

"It's my first time working with that orchestra," says Zeng.

"It's both exciting and demanding. I'm preparing with care — making sure every note isn't just in my fingers, but in my whole body."

Zeng's musical journey began in Beijing, where she started piano lessons at the age of 4. She was introduced to the instrument by her parents as part of a well-rounded education. But for Zeng, it quickly became more than that. "The piano fascinated me," she recalls. "Its size, its sound — it felt like a world I had to grow into."

What began as childhood curiosity evolved into a deeper, more disciplined relationship — one built on long practice hours, steady progress, and a growing sense of musical responsibility.

Now a student at the Royal College of Music, Zeng admits that becoming a professional pianist wasn't always the plan. "At first, I just wanted to give it a try. But when I got accepted, I thought if I'm going to study this seriously, I want to see how far I can go." She will graduate in 2026.

Outside the classical world, Zeng also composes her own music, often influenced by pop and improvisation.

"When I compose, I don't worry about getting every note perfect," she says. "It's more about being honest. It's a different way of connecting with myself."