Xia, 39, who was born in Beijing, learned to play piano as a boy, went on to graduate from the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, and joined the China Philharmonic Orchestra in 2008.

Zhai Jia, director and co-founder of the China Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, says most of its members are destined not to become professional musicians.

"However, they receive professional music training and gain the experience of performing in an orchestra, and that will benefit them in their careers."

Zhai says her daughter and son both learned to play the violin when they were 4 years old and enjoyed playing music with their friends in school orchestras.

"Nowadays many Chinese parents are letting their children play instruments and want them just to enjoy music without the pressure that they must follow a music career."

A few weeks ago Yu Long gave a masterclass for members of the China Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in Beijing.

"I asked the children about their plans and why they wanted to play music. Some said they wanted to become doctors, scientists or architects, but that music would play a big role of their lives. That's a fantastic answer."