The internationally renowned Fryderyk Chopin Festival has been an integral part of the summer cultural events in Mariánské Lázně for decades. It is organized annually by the Fryderyk Chopin Society on the third week of August.
These August days filled with music are among the biggest cultural events in the Czech Republic, they significantly enrich the cultural life in Mariánské Lázně and bring to the city many excellent performers and prominent conductors from all over the world. From the start, the society also organizes the competition for the young interpreters of Chopin’s music. Its instigator and later the head of jury was till his death (August 13, 1988) professor Václav Holzknecht. The competition started as an annual event and at the present time takes part every other year.
From the outset, it was outlined as broad-based cultural event. The organizers invite the most prominent Czech and foreign interpreters of Chopin’s music who present also works by other great classical composers. For its 50th anniversary the festival got an overhaul in the form of new, modern concept which nevertheless draws upon the long tradition. Apart from symphonic concerts, day and evening recitals, matinées and art exhibitions the organizers added chamber and jazz music concerts and various social and sports events.
