During the formative years of the Chopin Foundation, the main event was the National Chopin Piano Competition held every five years. It remains our flagship event to this day! Soon after the first Competitions were held, regional councils were formed to promote the Foundation's mission throughout the US. A group of local Chopin enthusiasts formed the Florida Council and became an organizing and fundraising force behind the Chopin Foundation. Between the Competition years, the Chopin Foundation began offering various musical programs to the community in support of the young competition winners, and to spread the Foundation's mission. Annual Chopin Festivals were planned, and the Florida Council launched the "Membership Musicales."
Eventually, the Florida Council was merged with the Chopin Foundation, and Musicales became Membership Concerts. Foundation and Council members were always offered Complimentary admission, and the music was followed by warm receptions where the audience enjoyed mixing with the artists and fellow music lovers. In 2013, Members Concerts became Chopin Salons: same concert format, new name.
Calling these events Chopin Salons is an homage to the more intimate performance settings that the composer himself enjoyed. They provide listeners with the unique experience of getting up close to the music and interacting with the pianists. In the last 16 years, 37 of these special concerts have been held, first at the La Gorce Country Club and, after the pandemic, at the Miami Beach Woman's Club.
The artists selected for the Chopin Salons are frequently past laureates of the National Chopin Piano Competition and former members of the jury. These first 3 photos are of pianists who have served on the National Chopin Competition jury: the late great Janusz Olejniczak, the amazing Ewa Poblocka, and the incomparable Antonio Pompa-Baldi.
Speaking of Competition laureates and Chopin Salons, our own first prize winner from 2015, Eric Lu, played his first Chopin Salon in April of 2015. It has been such a joy to watch his career continue to develop since he won our Competition at the tender age of 17.
Little did we know when Eric returned to the Chopin Salons ten years later, in April of 2025, that he would go on to win the first prize at the International Chopin Competition a few months later in October 2025! Our Chopin Foundation family now has bragging rights and can tell their friends, "We knew him when!"
Another first prize winner of the National Chopin Piano Competition has been a frequent guest at the Chopin Salons. A fan favorite, Claire Huangci has appeared three times since winning the 2010 Competition. In March of 2019, Claire saved the day when our originally scheduled artist fell ill.
One thing that makes the Chopin Salons truly special is their inclusive and charming atmosphere. The optional post-concert dinners offer a wonderful opportunity to extend the experience well into the evening. The wine keeps flowing, and conversations are lively! Since the early days of the Member Musicales, it has been rare for our dear Lady Blanka to miss a chance to enjoy time with our members and artists. She is a great believer in the power of music and social gatherings!
Chopin Salons Today
The Miami Beach Woman's Club has been the newest home for the Chopin Salons. There are not too many venues that have the ability to host not only a masterful piano concert, but also can cater a wine reception and post-concert dinner. Built in 1933 in the iconic Miami Mediterranean style, the Woman’s Club has been thoughtfully restored, blending timeless charm with modern amenities. Are you ready to experience (or re-experience!) the Chopin Salons this season? Go to our concerts page to see who is performing this season!