#Warsaw #Poland #Chopin Competition #Shigeru Kawai #SK-EX Piano

Celebrating Excellence at the 19th Chopin International Piano Competition

The 19th Chopin International Piano Competition, held in Warsaw, Poland, from October 2 to 23, 2023, highlighted the extraordinary talents of young pianists around the world. The event, which focuses exclusively on the works of Frédéric Chopin, serves as a platform for emerging artists to showcase their technical proficiency and artistic expression. This year's competition saw numerous contestants participate, and the results were announced on October 21.

Among the remarkable outcomes, Zitong Wang from China claimed the prestigious 3rd place, playing on the renowned Shigeru Kawai full concert piano, the SK-EX. Alongside him, Piotr Alexewicz from Poland and Vincent Ong from Malaysia each secured the 5th place using the same exceptional instrument. The competition featured a total of 84 contestants, with the final round showcasing the talents of the top 11 finalists as selected through rigorous preliminary and semifinal rounds.

Results of the 19th Chopin International Piano Competition

• - 1st Place: Eric Lu (USA)
• - 2nd Place: Kevin Chen (Canada)
• - 3rd Place: Zitong Wang (China, using SK-EX)
• - 4th Place: Tianyao Lyu (China)
• - 4th Place: Shiori Kuwahara (Japan)
• - 5th Place: Piotr Alexewicz (Poland, using SK-EX)
• - 5th Place: Vincent Ong (Malaysia, using SK-EX)
• - 6th Place: William Yang (USA)
• - Finalists: David Khrikuli (Georgia), Tianyou Li (China), Miyu Shindo (Japan)

The Chopin International Piano Competition, established in 1927, is renowned for its high standards and has become a significant event occurring every five years. This edition saw performances that captivated audiences and judges alike, culminating in a gala concert featuring the prize winners from October 21 to 23.

Shigeru Kawai, founded by Kawai Musical Instruments Manufacturing Co., Ltd., has had a rich history with this coveted competition since 1985 (11th edition). In this year’s contest, five companies provided official pianos, among which the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX stood out, being the choice for a significant number of contestants: 21 during the first round, 11 in the second round, and 6 in the third.

We are deeply grateful for the opportunity provided to so many contestants to use our pianos, which reflects our commitment to creating and supporting an ideal environment for pianists to expand their musical potential.

About the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX Full Concert Piano

The SK-EX, launched in 2001, is the flagship model of Shigeru Kawai, embodying our mission to craft the world's finest pianos. To ensure the highest expressiveness demanded of concert pianos, only carefully selected materials are utilized in the soundboard construction. The production process incorporates traditional handcrafting techniques known as the original instrument process.

Additionally, the innovative Ultra Responsive Action II mechanism, integrated throughout the Shigeru Kawai grand piano series, provides exceptional touch sensitivity and stability, allowing for a wide dynamic range from delicate pianissimos to powerful, clear tones.

For more information about our pianos, please visit the Shigeru Kawai Special Site.