Local hero hopes: Piotr Alexewicz makes final of Poland's Chopin piano competition

The classical musical world now knows the names of the finalists of the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw, and among them is home favourite Piotr Alexewicz, the only Pole to make the cut.

Launched in 1927, the Fryderyk Chopin International Piano Competition is one of the oldest musical events of its kind in the world and, one of the most prestigious awards for pianists.

Since its inception, the contest's repertoire has consisted exclusively of legendary composer's music.

Chopin's Eleven

Also qualified for the final stage of the auditions are: Kevin Chen from Canada, David Khrikuli from Georgia, Shiori Kuwahara from Japan, Tianyou Li from China, Eric Lu from the United States, Tianyao Lyu from China, Vincent Ong from Malaysia, Miyu Shindo from Japan, Zitong Wang from China and William Yang from the United States.

The finalists will begin with a performance of the Polonaise-Fantaisie, Op. 61, followed by a performance of a selected piano concerto by Fryderyk Chopin with the accompaniment of the National Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Andrzej Boreyka: in E minor, Op. 11 or in F minor, Op. 21.

The winner of the 19th Chopin Competition will receive a cash prize of €60,000 and a gold medal.

The final auditions will take place from 18-20 October in sessions starting at 6pm each day.