Under the legendary guidance of Dang Thai Son—the 1980 Chopin Competition winner and celebrated teacher—Wang Zitong delivered breathtaking interpretations of Chopin’s Piano Concerto in E minor that captivated both judges and audiences at the Warsaw Philharmonic.
We sat down with the Zitong Wang pianist to discuss her historic achievement at the International Chopin Piano Competition, her artistic philosophy, and why the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX was the perfect partner for her Chopin interpretations.

Interview

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How did you feel about winning the prize?

I feel great! I feel very honored – this is such a great privilege. When I look at all the past prize winners, I still can’t believe it. I’m still just digesting all of this.

It’s also an honor for me to receive the Sonata Prize. That was something beyond my expectations.

I’ve known this Sonata No. 2 for a long time – I learned it when I was younger. Every time I play it, it brings me back. Especially this time, with Mr. Dang Thai Son’s guidance, it felt very emotional to include it in my third-round program. That made it very meaningful, so I’m very, very honored to receive everything.

What are your impressions of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX full concert grand piano?

For me, choosing the Kawai piano during the piano selection was very, very easy. First of all, I only tried three pianos including Kawai, and it took me a little time to decide between Kawai and one other – just like four years ago. The other was the same one I played in the preliminary round, so I felt familiar with it. But the sound of the Kawai was so sensitive that I felt excited every time I played it.
My repertoire needed more brilliance in the top register and a darker feeling in the bass – not just loudness, but character. The top register required not only brilliance, but also a sense of lightness and articulation. I felt that only the Kawai piano could deliver that.
Overall, it was the most suitable piano for my program. One quality I truly loved was that it gave me a different character in every octave. That was surprising to me – in a good way – because most pianos sound even throughout, but for some reason, this piano gave such variety of tone that everything felt natural. I didn’t have to work hard to express those characters. My touch felt very easy while playing.
After the first round, Mr. Dang texted me, “I think Kawai was a great choice for you.” And I agree – it really suited my way of playing.
Also, the softer side of the Kawai – the touch I needed for delicacy and a singing tone – was perfect for the slower pieces in my program. Some people choose a piano based on how easy it is to play. Kawai wasn’t necessarily the easiest for me – I had to work on it – but I felt the effort was completely worth it, because I could achieve the sound I imagined. If I had prioritized ease of playing, I wouldn’t have gotten the sound I wanted. But with Kawai, once adjusted, it didn’t take much time to feel comfortable.
Overall, I loved playing on the Kawai in every situation. The more I played, the more I fell in love with it.

What are your plans for future activities and further challenges?

I just want to keep playing music. For me, music is something that heals me and is like my closest friend. The piano is where I can express everything, and music in general – not just piano – brings me peace.

I simply hope that, whether someone is listening online or in the concert hall, they feel they’re understood by me – even if it’s just one person. For me, performing is about human connection. That’s what really matters. When you go to a concert, there are moments where a single note or phrase might stay with you even though it’s not possible to absorb everything at once.

So, if someone can feel even just one of those moments in my performance, I would be very, very happy.

Why Dang Thai Son Students Excel at Chopin Competitions

Zitong Wang’s victory adds to the remarkable legacy of Dang Thai Son, whose teaching philosophy has produced numerous Chopin Competition laureates. As the only Asian to win first prize at the Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition (1980), Dang Thai Son brings unique insights into authentic Chopin interpretation. His students consistently demonstrate the emotional depth and technical mastery that judges seek.

Experience the Piano of Champions

Chopin Competition 2025 medalists like Zitong Wang have proven that artistry meets its match in the Shigeru Kawai. Discover why professional pianists and piano competition winners worldwide trust Kawai’s flagship concert grand.

Visit your local Kawai dealer to experience the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX — the piano chosen by 19th Chopin Competition prize winners.