FANS often only see the good side of fame. They see the happy smiles and great success of famous people.

But it's difficult for them to understand everything that comes before then. They cannot see the hard work or the hours of practice.

Li Yundi, the Chinese piano prodigy, recently released his first concerto recording. He talked with Teens about his art and his job.

"Of course, the job is hard work," Li, 24, said. "You need to work hard to be a professional. But you also have to play hundreds of concerts, meet fans, and listen to critics of your music."

In 2000, when Li was 18, he won the top prize at the International Chopin Competition in Warsaw, Poland. This was the first time the top prize had been given in 15 years. Li was also the youngest, and the first Chinese to win the prize.

Since then, Li became famous and his list of honours goes on and on.

Early days

Born in Chongqing, Li began to play piano when he was seven. His parents spent all their money and bought a piano for him - a luxury in 1980s China.

He worked hard. Every day, Li played for eight hours or more at a piano school. He often played even after the school had closed.

Today, Li still can't play a beautiful tune without careful preparation.

"You need to be ready on stage," Li said. "People are waiting for you. Nobody knows whether you have slept enough, or whether you have another problem in your life. But you need to play great music for your audience. That's what they want to hear."