A new way to key into classical music

Bach, however, would leave the grace notes for players themselves to decide as they saw fit, embellishing his pieces on the basis of the structural framework he built.

In general, classical music is about accuracy and delicacy, but players still have to pay attention to make sure they are not too stiff, Lang says.

He made these comments while speaking at a "Today at Apple" session at the Apple Store in Beijing's Sanlitun as an artist ambassador for Apple Music Classical, a standalone app designed specially for the genre, which launched its Chinese version on Jan 24.

Among the app's library of more than 5 million songs are pieces by modern Chinese composers, including Nie Er (1912-35), who composed the Chinese national anthem, March of the Volunteers; Huang Zi (1904-38), who wrote the patriotic song, Kang Di Ge (Song of Fighting Against the Enemy); and Xian Xinghai (1905-45), who composed Yellow River Cantata.

Contemporary Chinese composers Tan Dun and Zhao Jiping, who are particularly known for their film and TV series soundtracks, also have music available through the app.

Lang says any music passed down through the ages and welcomed by generations can be called "classical", and this category is by no means as far removed from daily life as some imagine.

"We welcome more attention to classical music, which also includes Chinese music and both modern and ancient pieces. It's a good thing that world music from different times, styles and cultural backgrounds will be included (in the app)," he tells China Daily.