Music and dance mastered by two very talented kids
THURSDAY, MAY 29, 2014 12:34 PM

Music lessons and physical activity have both been linked to high IQ scores. Numerous studies suggest that kids get involved with music, dance or sports at a young age to not only nurture a skill, but to increase their cognitive abilities. While all children can benefit from pursuing such endeavors, some kids stand out among their peers, proving that talent, hard work, dedication and intelligence make a very remarkable individual. 

Dance master George Sampson
George Sampson started break dancing at the age of 6. While taking lessons at a local studio, he discovered he had a natural knack and love for the craft. However, George's single mother was unable to afford lessons any longer, and the young aficionado had to practice on his own. George began break dancing on the streets to make money busking. The change he earned by entertaining crowds was enough to continue funding his dance education. George got his big break when he landed a spot on the show "Britain's Got Talent" in 2008. It was his second time auditioning for the show and he was determined to succeed. George's hard work paid off and he won the televised talent show. Now 16 years old, George has a large fan base and an undeterred love for dancing.

Piano prodigy Lang Lang
Lang Lang is a piano master from Shenyang, China. His father started teaching him music theory when he could barely speak and enrolled him in formal training at age 3. When Lang Lang was 5 years old, he performed his first recital, playing Mozart. At age 8, Lang Lang began attending the Beijing Conservatory for music, and he won the International Tchaikovsky Competition for Young Musicians when he was 13. Lang Lang and his father moved to America when he was 15 years old so he could continue pursuing his dream of perfecting his skills.

Lang Lang got his chance at fame when he was asked to play with the Chicago Symphony last minute. The then 17-year-old wowed audiences. Since then, Lang Lang has played in the 2008 Olympics and created his own music group, the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, which promotes music education and helps kids hone their talents. 

Lang Lang still feels profound love for piano and music in general. He performs internationally and is known for being both a virtuoso on the keys and as a performer. 

"I think when you play any piece, you are not you anymore," Lang Lang told CBS. "You are totally into the world of the composer's mind."