Event: Poland

Chopin Festival

When:	1 - 9 Aug 2008 (annual)
Where:	Duszniki Zdroj
Costs:	Festival pass Zl590; eve Zl35 except 1 & 9 Aug Zl45; mat Zl30
Opening Hours:	Masterclasses 9.30am-1.30pm; mats 4pm; evening 8pm

Polish spa town Duszniki Zdroj hosts an annual Chopin Festival. The event was created in 1946 after proud inhabitants wanted to celebrate the composer's stay in the town 120 years previously. The artistic director is Piotr Paleczny.

Although he was only 16 at the time, Chopin's talent as a pianist was already apparent and he gave two charity concerts during his visit, donating the proceeds to two local orphans.

The town has changed little since his stay, (its population numbers only 6000), and every year in August it is filled with music lovers, internationally renowned pianists and the sound of Chopin's compositions. The festival lasts nine days and there are normally around 25 concerts and recitals given, as well as masterclasses taught by the most respected teachers and pianists.

The festival is well known for its intimate atmosphere, which enables contact between the audience and artists after concerts - a fantastic opportunity for classical music fans. In 2008, evening concerts are performed by Arcadi Volodos, Akiko Ebi, Krzysztof Jablonski, Choong Mo Kang, Nikolai Demidenko, and, to close the festival, Alexander Gavrylyuk (9 August). Matinee artists include Hisako Kawamura, Nikita Mndoyants, Trio Kulka, Alexander Ghindin, Joaquin Soriano and Rachel Cheung.

Even if you're just a casual listener it's worth taking a trip to Duszniki Zdroj - not only can you enjoy a night or two of excellent musical performances, but you can also take advantage of the town's stunning location in a valley of the Stolowe Mountains National Park. It has always been a popular holiday resort and is famed for its relaxing spas and peaceful walks.

Please visit the festival's website for a full programme.