Chopin Competition 2025: Giving One's Heart
Stage 3, Day 1 of the Chopin Competition took place on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
Jed Distler reports on the event, noting that participants may feel less pressure now than in previous rounds.
They just need to go out on stage, perform, make music and give their hearts.
Yang (Jack) Gao is highlighted as an example of a participant who embodied this approach, choosing the Shigeru Kawai piano for its resonance and sustaining capabilities.
Gao's playing style is described as having a 'cello' tone, with a supple and elegant sound.
Author's summary: Pianists give their hearts on stage.