Pianist keys in to rhapsody and innovation

This world tour premiered in Hangzhou only a few months after the end of his two-year The Collection world tour, during which he presented more than 100 shows in 22 countries and regions on four continents. Basically, he has been crossing geographic boundaries as well.

Asked about how to keep in good condition for an energetic and passionate two-hour concert each time in tight schedules, he says it is all about "love" and the audiences' appreciation always fuels him up.

"For me, it's always interesting to come to the country where I've never been, and to introduce myself to the audiences for the first time. It is so rewarding for me as an artist to see the audiences' reaction, enthusiasm and excitement when they listen to my music," he says with a smile.

Maksim first came to China 21 years ago, winning an MTV music award in the country, which kicked off his journey here. Since then, he has visited China with extensive concerts and shows across the nation, nurturing a large crowd of fans at all ages.

Maksim says he was always impressed by Chinese culture and the Chinese audiences for their enthusiasm.

"As soon as I come onstage at the beginning of the show, I have huge ovations (from Chinese audiences).This is something that exists only when they really know you, and are happy to be here. For me, to begin the concert like that is amazing. It's like a huge push for the general energy of the concert," he says.

As a professional pianist for about four decades, Maksim is still actively open for explorations and challenges in music. Over the past two decades, he has been on many shows and collaborated with quite a few Chinese musicians, including Chinese cellist Ouyang Nana, guzheng (Chinese zither) player Zhao Jienan and erhu (a two-stringed Chinese fiddle) player Chen Yimiao.

"I always consider myself lucky because I was born with this talent and the love for the instrument and classical music. I can't physically be without the piano for a long time. It is part of my life and part of who I am. Music can be very powerful in terms of touching your life and moments. Many people might underestimate the power of music, but it is a very powerful element in life," says Maksim.

The Segmenti classical crossover world tour is continuing to hit several cities across China within this year, including Fuzhou, Shenzhen, Guangdong, Kunming, Chengdu, Nanjing, Qingdao, Changchun and Shanghai.