A Stage Without One of Its Most Distinctive Voices

In a thoughtful commentary, Polish cultural weekly Tygodnik Powszechny reflects on the absence of Hao Rao and another leading pianist from the later stages, raising broader questions about jury expectations and contemporary interpretive norms. The article notes that Hao Rao—regarded as one of the most intriguing artistic voices to emerge during the event—had already left a strong impression, prompting discussion on evolving perspectives in the interpretation of Chopin’s music. — [Jakub Puchalski].