The jury of the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition, chaired by Garrick Ohlsson, selected 11 pianists for the highly anticipated final stage. Poland’s Piotr Alexewicz carries the nation’s hopes as the only local contender left in the competition.
The world of classical music now celebrates the unveiling of this year’s finalists, with Alexewicz representing Poland on the grand Warsaw stage.
Founded in 1927, the Chopin International Piano Competition stands as one of the world’s oldest and most respected musical contests. Since its inception, the event has showcased only the timeless works of Fryderyk Chopin, preserving his musical genius for nearly a century.
Eleven Virtuosos Advance to the Grand Finale
Alongside Alexewicz, the finalists include Kevin Chen (Canada), David Khrikuli (Georgia), Shiori Kuwahara (Japan), Tianyou Li (China), Eric Lu (United States), Tianyao Lyu (China), Vincent Ong (Malaysia), Miyu Shindo (Japan), Zitong Wang (China), and William Yang (United States).
Each pianist will open with Polonaise-Fantaisie, Op. 61, followed by one of two Chopin piano concertos — either E minor, Op. 11, or F minor, Op. 21. They will perform alongside the National Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Andrzej Boreyka.
The final round of performances will take place from October 18 to 20, beginning each evening at 6 p.m.
Chopin Crown and Global Recognition Await the Winner
The eventual champion will earn a €60,000 prize and a gold medal, marking their place in the pantheon of Chopin masters.
For the finalists, this moment represents more than a competition — it is a defining opportunity to claim artistic immortality through Chopin’s music.
As Warsaw prepares to host the final performances, the global stage awaits the next pianist destined to leave an indelible mark on the world of classical music.
