Shilong began his musical journey on piano at the age of 4 and made his public conducting debut at the age of 12. After winning the Golden Award in the English vocal category at the China National Arts Competition of Youth, Shilong moved to Australia and joined Canberra Youth Orchestra in 2004. Between 2004 and 2007, Shilong was the principal viola for CYO and later became the assistant conductor and string tutor at Canberra Youth Music. With over 10 years of association with CYO and JMO, Shilong is known to the Canberra community for bringing up young talents through his orchestral training, and his association with local musical groups, such as the Tuggeranong Valley Band, Rhythm Syndicate Choir, Forrest National Chamber Orchestra and Musica da Camera Chamber Orchestra. Other ensembles Shilong has conducted include Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, ANU School of Music Orchestra, Sydney Conservatorium of Music Orchestra, Arco Music Academy Chamber Orchestra (co-founder), Kuringai Youth Orchestra, Ashfield Community Band, Steel City Strings, Australian New Goldburg Orchestra, Australian Chinese Musicians Association Orchestra and Choir, and Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra. Shilong is the current Music Director of Canberra City Band and Australian Rugby Choir, and chief conductor of Brindabella Orchestra.