Celebrating Polish Culture: Chopin Land Competition Winners Perform at Osaka Expo

A Symphony of Polish Culture at the Osaka Kansai Expo

The Osaka Kansai Expo has become a vibrant hub for cultural exchange, and this year, the Polish Pavilion has particularly stood out. From September to November 2024, a grand event is set to unfold as PWM Edition, led by Daniel Chich, collaborates with To-On Planning Co., Ltd., represented by Naruyasu Fukuda, to host the third edition of the Chopin Land Competition. This event aims to celebrate Polish music by showcasing the exceptional talent of young pianists from elementary to university levels.

On May 5, 2025, coinciding with Children’s Day in Japan, five winners from the competition will perform at the Polish Pavilion, where they will grace the audience with pieces by renowned Polish composers. Their performances are anticipated to resonate like true 'ambassadors of Polish music'.

Discovering Chopin Land Competition

The Chopin Land Competition is unique as it exclusively features works by Polish composers. This piano competition is affiliated with the Piano Teachers' National Association (PTNA) and has gained acclaim globally, thanks to renowned pianists such as Ewa Pobłocka and Wojciech Świtała, who supervise the event. It encompasses seven divisions, from preschool to high school and general categories, and this year marks the fourth edition of this esteemed competition.

A Warm Welcome and Cultural Exchange

Before the concert, the participants had the honor of visiting the Polish Pavilion's director, Marta Jerlinska. They were greeted with heartfelt words of encouragement, which fostered a warm atmosphere. The performers enjoyed interviews and serene exchanges before embarking on a tour of the Pavilion. Here, they immersed themselves in Poland's latest technological advancements, as well as cultural and artistic treasures. The culinary experience was equally delightful, featuring traditional Polish cuisine that beautifully showcased the rich nuances of Polish hospitality.

A Memorable Concert Experience

At the commemorative concert held in the Polish Pavilion, the young pianists brought to life the works of celebrated Polish composers, including Chopin, Gonciarz, Krupiński, Lechowicz, and Paderewski. The concert hall was filled to near capacity as the emotional performances of these young virtuosos created a magnificent atmosphere. Their music transcended time and national boundaries, serving as a cultural bridge between Poland and Japan, embodying a rich cultural exchange.

Performers and Their Repertoires

The concert featured a diverse range of pieces performed by the talented winners:

- Elementary School (Grades 3-4): Rinon Kogure

- Sentimental Waltz (M. Gonciarz)
- Polonaise No.8 in D-flat Major, Op.71-1 (F. Chopin)

- Elementary School (Grades 5-6): Tomofumi Yoshida

- 24 Preludes, Op.28 No.4 (F. Chopin)
- Polonaise in D-flat Major (K. Krupiński)
- Suite ‘At the Countryside’: Romance, Op.40 (T. Lechowicz)

- Middle School: Ayano Yoneda

- Polish Dances No.2: Mazurek, Op.5-2 in E Minor (I.J. Paderewski)
- Andante Spianato and Grande Polonaise brillante, Op.22 in E-flat Major (F. Chopin)

- High School & General B: Airi Kajita

- Rondeau and Rondo, Op.16 in E-flat Major (F. Chopin)

- High School & General B: Mayu Yashiro

- Études No.11 ‘Winter Wind’, Op.25-11 in A Minor (F. Chopin)
- Scherzo No.1 in B Minor, Op.20 (F. Chopin)

These performances highlighted the profound bond forged through music, allowing participants and audiences to experience the depth of the Polish-Japanese friendship.

A Look Ahead: The 2025 Chopin Land Competition

Excitingly, the guidelines for the fourth edition of the Chopin Land Competition have been released. Once again, participants will engage with an array of works by Polish composers as they compete on June 27, 2025. Pianist Rintaro Akamatsu will host a briefing session on the competition pieces, encouraging pianists to deepen their understanding of Polish music.

For those passionate about piano and eager to explore the rich heritage of Chopin’s homeland, registration is now open. Join us in celebrating the beauty of Polish music and culture at this premier event!