The Chopin Society UK

The year was opened by Louis Alvanis, who has played regularly for us since 1987 (see archive).

The Chopin Society was officially founded in 1971 on February 22nd because our Founder, Lucie Swiatek, considered that to be the date of Chopin’s birthday, and the Society has celebrated it on that date ever since (see our article about Chopin's birthday).

Birthday concert

There was a special anniversary concert at Westminster Cathedral Hall given by a selection of pianists particularly associated with the Chopin Society over the years, and attended by over 300 people.


The Chopin Society's 40th birthday concert

Gala celebration at Strawberry hill

We also held a Gala Celebration on June 7th at Strawberry Hill, Twickenham, when Angela Hewitt performed Bach and Chopin. Angela Hewitt is considered by many to be the greatest living keyboard interpreter of Bach.

Back in 2006 we organised a Gala evening to raise money for the restoration of Strawberry Hill and were delighted to be invited to hold another event in the fully restored building.


HRH Princess Alexandra at the Strawberry Hill concert