The International Fryderyk Chopin Competition for Amateur Pianists

Competitions for amateur pianists have been organised in the whole world for decades, hence the idea to make it a tradition in Poland. The Chopin Society holds its competition every three years in Warsaw. There have been six editions so far (2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, 2021, 2024). The jury is comprised of prominent pianists and pedagogues, including Andrzej Jasiński, Bronisława Kawalla, Kevin Kenner, Marc Laforêt, Piotr Paleczny, Karol Radziwonowicz, Józef Stompel, Wojciech Świtała and other outstanding artists.

The top prize winner of the previous edition plays the opening concert. The competition has two stages and the final, followed by the winners’ concert. In each stage participants are requested to perform works of their choice from the 18th, 19th or 20th centuries, but some pieces by Chopin are compulsory. The competition is open to all persons who do not earn their living as concert pianists or piano teachers. Participants from many countries around the world include physicians, engineers, IT experts, diplomats and scientists, to mention a few. Each edition of the competition is a memorable artistic experience and an opportunity to meet exceptional people.

For more information: https://amator.chopin.pl/en/

International Fryderyk Chopin Competition for Amateur Pianists, Warsaw. Photo: Sławomir Jóźwik