Described as "a pianist of awesome gifts" and compared to Clara Schumann by the critics; Chinese classical pianist Di Xiao concluded a major international recital tour in 2009 as the UK's representative to the universally acclaimed 'Rising Stars' series. The tour included sell out concerts at some of the world's most prestigious halls including the Concertgebouw Amsterdam, Vienna Konzerthaus, Salzburg Mozartium, Stockholm Konserthaus and Luxembourg Philharmonie. Following her Köln Philharmoie recital, the press stated that "Di Xiao presents a demanding programme that takes your breath away."