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Chopin piano competition in Warsaw: A glimpse behind the scenes

06.10.2025 15:00
The 19th International Chopin Piano Competition entered its fourth day on Monday, with 17 contestants scheduled to perform in two sessions, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon.
Audio
Behind the scenes of the International Chopin Piano Competition.
Behind the scenes of the International Chopin Piano Competition.Photo: Radio Poland

Each pianist’s recital includes an etude, a nocturne, a waltz, and an additional work selected from Chopin’s ballades, the Barcarolle or the Fantasy in F minor.

Eighty-four pianists from 19 countries are competing this year, including 28 from China, 13 from Japan and 13 from Poland.

Held every five years, the competition is one of the world’s most prestigious music contests. Since it was launched in 1927, it has shaped the careers of many leading pianists.

Monika Pilch reports from the Warsaw Philharmonic.

Click on the audio player above to listen.