Chopin 2025: Playing football and piano have much in common - Xiaoxuan Li
Chinese pianist Xiaoxuan Li said after his performance in the second stage of the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition on Saturday that he sees similarities between playing football and the piano.
"I see similarities between them. To play Chopin well, you have to treat your body like one team," Li said.
The pianist said he spends his spare time watching football. "When I have free time from practice, I watch matches. I'm also a fan of Leo Messi," he added, noting that he hopes to watch next year's World Cup, even if only on television.
Li also said that sport and music share emotional similarities. "Sport, like football, is about teamwork. When playing the piano, we also cooperate with the whole body. Every part of it is connected to music. Also, our inner self, the brain and concentration. To play Chopin well, you have to treat yourself as one team," he said.
Forty pianists from 14 countries are competing in the second stage of the Chopin Competition. The auditions continue until Sunday evening, when the names of those advancing to the third stage will be announced.
The 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition runs from October 2 to 23. It is organised by Poland's Fryderyk Chopin Institute.
The Polish Press Agency is a media partner of the competition. (PAP)
