“I live in New York City, but originally I come from Hawaii,” one of the foreign guests told me while waiting in the long queue.
The visitor explained that he had travelled to Poland specifically for the competition, noting that he is a pianist himself, has a particular love for Chopin’s nocturnes, and deeply admires the composer’s genius. He flew in weeks ago to ensure his trip coincided with the audition dates.
His companion, a friend from Warsaw, admitted she had not expected the queues to be so long, highlighting the enormous interest the competition attracts from both local and international audiences.
For several days, classical music enthusiasts have been arriving from early morning to experience live performances of Chopin by some of the world’s finest pianists competing in the event.
Fans from around the world, eager to witness the virtuosity of pianists performing Chopin's works, can be seen waiting for hours in line, despite the challenge of securing tickets for the Chopin Competition. Photo: Monika Piorun/Radio Poland
Among the crowds, many are visitors from abroad, with some arriving at the box office at the break of dawn, armed with blankets, camping chairs, and hot drinks to stay warm during chilly October mornings in Poland.
During the audition days of the Chopin Competition, classical music entusiasts begin queuing early in the morning outside the Warsaw Philharmonic to secure tickets. Some bring camping chairs and blankets to endure the long hours spenct waiting outdors. Photo: Monika Piorun/Radio Poland
Warsaw prepares for the Chopin Competition grand finale
Getting tickets for the Chopin Competition is no easy task, yet international visitors can be seen waiting for hours in the line to secure their entry. Photo: Monika Piorun/Radio Poland
The Chopin Competition, held every five years and one of the world’s most respected classical music events, began this year with 84 pianists from around the globe. Eleven finalists remain in the running for the top prize, including Piotr Alexewicz from Wrocław, the only Polish pianist to reach the final round.
The winners will be announced late Monday evening during a ceremony at the Warsaw Philharmonic’s Mirror Hall, traditionally broadcast live on YouTube and the event’s official website run by the Fryderyk Chopin Institute, with the stream scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Warsaw time.
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