Who was Fryderk Chopin?

Fryderyk Chopin (1810–1849) was a Polish composer and pianist often known today as the poetic revolutionary of the piano. Chopin’s broad range of compositions gave the instrument a soul, turning it into a voice of longing, passion, and national pride. His ethereal nocturnes, fiery etudes, and masterful ballades are just a few of his works that still mesmerize pianists and listeners today. With a delicate yet profoundly expressive touch, his music whispers, weeps, and soars through the keys, leaving a legacy that sings across centuries.

Partners

The Chopin Podcast is brought to you by the Chopin Foundation of the United States, whose mission is:

1) to assist young, talented American pianists in developing their careers as international concert artists; and

2) to make classical music, and above all the music of Frédéric Chopin, accessible to everyone.

Ben & Garrick

I had the privilege of working closely with Garrick Ohlsson on a number of content projects while serving as Head of Piano at Tonebase from 2019-2023. Together, we produced upwards of 10 hours of video courses and interviews on topics including Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and piano musicianship.

Garrick is both erudite and down-to-earth, and one of the rare concert pianists who can communicate insider-knowledge to a broad audience. I can’t imagine a better podcast guest, and I’m thrilled to continue our ongoing collaboration in 2025 with The Chopin Podcast.

– Ben Laude

The first season of The Chopin Podcast led right into the US National Chopin Competition, which took place in Miami in January 2025 and was organized by the Chopin Foundation.

The second season of The Chopin Podcast will prepare listeners for the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition which will take place from October 2nd to 23rd, 2025 in Warsaw, Poland.