An international panel, chaired by Garrick Ohlsson, selected 11 exceptional pianists to compete in the final round of the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw. Polish audiences now rally behind Piotr Alexewicz, the nation’s sole finalist.
The announcement revealed the official line-up of contenders for one of the world’s most celebrated classical music contests. Established in 1927, the Chopin Competition remains a cornerstone of global piano excellence and features performances drawn entirely from Chopin’s compositions.
Finalists to Perform Iconic Works with Philharmonic Orchestra
Joining Alexewicz are Kevin Chen (Canada), David Khrikuli (Georgia), Shiori Kuwahara (Japan), Tianyou Li (China), Eric Lu (USA), Tianyao Lyu (China), Vincent Ong (Malaysia), Miyu Shindo (Japan), Zitong Wang (China), and William Yang (USA).
Each pianist will perform Polonaise-Fantaisie, Op. 61, followed by a Chopin piano concerto — either E minor, Op. 11, or F minor, Op. 21 — accompanied by the National Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Andrzej Boreyka.
The final performances will take place from October 18 to 20, beginning at 6 p.m. each evening in Warsaw.
Top Honor Offers Prestige, Prize, and Legacy
The ultimate winner will earn a €60,000 award and a gold medal, cementing their place among the world’s leading interpreters of Chopin’s music.
The event not only crowns a new champion but also reinforces Warsaw’s enduring place in global musical heritage. As the final notes approach, audiences await a dazzling celebration of artistry, precision, and emotion — hallmarks of the competition that continues to define the spirit of classical piano performance.
