The Chinese virtuoso pianist was one of several artists honored Thursday at the Royal College of Music by the prince, who also bestowed doctorates upon composer James MacMillan and conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen.

Lang Lang’s record label Sony Music said the 28-year-old musician was the youngest and the only Chinese individual to be distinguished with the honor.

Charles, a noted music lover, was treated to an unusual piano recital by graduate Antoine Francoise, who plucked at the instrument’s strings rather than playing its keys.

Young sopranos Paula Sides and Sarah-Jane Brandon also performed.