HONORARY AWARD: Lang Lang (second right) receives an honorary doctorate from the Manhattan School of Music at the Riverside Church in New York City, United States, on May 11, 2012. The award recognizes his extraordinary accomplishments as a musician, educator and musical ambassador to the world (ZHOU WEI)

The Manhattan School of Music awarded an honorary doctorate to Lang Lang on May 11, in recognition of his extraordinary accomplishments as a musician, educator and musical ambassador to the world.

It is the internationally acclaimed pianist's first doctoral degree in the United States and makes him the first Asian to receive an honorary doctorate from the prestigious school. He previously received an honorary doctorate from the British Royal Academy of Music conferred by Prince Charles.

Lang has been heralded as the "hottest artist on the classical music planet" by The New York Times and has played sold out recitals and concerts in every major city in the world. He is also the first Chinese pianist to be engaged by the Vienna Philharmonic, Berlin Philharmonic and all the top American orchestras.

For nearly a decade Lang has been giving back to children around the world through volunteer activities as diverse as mentoring young talent, convening 100 students in concert, performing for sick children in hospitals, delivering recitals in remote communities, and raising awareness of other charitable causes.

Lang indicated that the honor would encourage him to go further in his musical career. "Music is the best remedy in life," he told 340 students receiving degrees in music at the commencement ceremony.

"The power of music is endless. While not everybody can be a musician, everybody is inspired through music. Love for music is universal and can cross all boundaries," Lang said.

Manhattan School of Music celebrates its longstanding tradition of excellence in music education. Established in 1918 by pianist and philanthropist Janet Daniels Schenck, it is a leading conservatory in the United States, as well as the country's largest private conservatory offering both classical and jazz training.