Polish mountain hosts Chopin Fest

A few hundred people gather in front of a large white scene in the quiet city of Duszniki-Zdroj, located on the Polish Czech border.

Inside, the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra is preparing to open the 80th edition of the Chopin International Piano Festival.

“I have loved Chopin for so many years!” Erin Gao, a 33 -year -old from China, who traveled to hear the composer’s works while he was a vacation in Europe.

Mike Righton, a 73 -year -old from Texas, shared this excitement.

“This is my fifth year here. I like this festival – there are many concerts and the place is very beautiful,” he said.

The organizers expect about 2,000 spectators during the nine days that lasts until August 9 in this city only 4,000 inhabitants, where Frederic Chopin’s legacy is visible everywhere.

“Above all, this festival is gathering true lovers of Chopin music,” said Piotr Paleczny, artistic director of the festival.

The roads are decorated with composer’s posters and statues and the stores welcome tourists with souvenirs carrying his image.

It was here in 1826, when the city was part of Germany and known as Bad Reinerz, where a 16 -year -old Chopin gave his first concert abroad.

This performance has inspired the creation of the festival, which has attracted many of the biggest names in classical music since its founding in 1946.

One of this year’s artists is the pianist born in Warsaw Julia Lozowska, 23.

“I grew up with Chopin, I love a lot of other composers, of course, but it’s the one I understand best,” he said.

Among the headliners of the festival is Aristo Sham, 29, a miracle from Hong Kong and winner of the 2025 Van Cliburn competition. He begins his worldwide tour of Duszniki-Zdroj.

“To play in the same place as him, follow his footsteps – it’s a huge honor and privilege,” Sham said after a rehearsal, his eyes rely on a Chopin bust.

“Here, we’re in a musical cocoon, just playing music in an enchanting environment for an incredibly enthusiastic audience.”