Rafał Blechacz talks to Jan Popis

What was the aim of taking part in the competition?
First and foremost, the joy of playing. Particularly in the third stage, in the concerto, there is happiness and melancholy, but every pianist is glad to be able to play this piece.

Do you treat the competition mainly in terms of rivalry?
Mainly, I wanted to play well. During competitions I try not to listen to the other pianists, I focus on myself, that’s the most important thing.

When did you play your first piece by Chopin?
When I was 11 years old, it was the Nocturne in B Major. I played a concerto for the first time in 1999. Three years previously, I took part in a competition for the first time, this was a national competition in Bydgoszcz.

What would you like to say to those dear to you?
First and foremost, I would like to thank them: my parents, my professor, my friends, everyone who offered me support.

And after the competition?
It’s really hard to say.

Are you tired?
Tired? Yes, probably. But there is also great emotion and happiness.

Are you prepared for a concert career?
I am always thinking about expanding my repertoire. You can’t just keep playing the competition program. My professor and I want to return to the Brahms sonata and prepare the Goldberg Variations. Bach is very close to my heart. I read these variations when I was 12.

Who are your favorite pianists?
There are many. Of course the great Polish pianist Krystian Zimerman. I have all of his records. He is a great artist.

What did you have to give up to play the piano? Do you miss anything?
I didn’t have to give up anything. And I would miss playing the piano.