Chopin piano competition contestant visibly moved to tears while playing the ‘Raindrop’ prelude

Chopin Piano Competition Contestant Overcome with Emotion

A 24-year-old Japanese pianist, Yumeka Nakagawa, was visibly moved to tears while playing Frédéric Chopin's Prelude, Op.28, No.15, also known as the 'Raindrop' prelude, during the second round of the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition.

The piece, known for its repeated A flat note that resembles the gentle patter of raindrops, seemed to deeply affect Nakagawa as she performed all 24 of Chopin's Preludes, Op.28.

As she transitioned into the B section of the piece, where the music shifts to a minor key with a new melody, Nakagawa's emotions became apparent, and by the end of the section, tears were streaming down her face as she played.

The repeated A flat note throughout the piece has been likened to the gentle patter of raindrops.

Nakagawa's emotional performance is a testament to the powerful impact of music on both the performer and the audience.

Author's summary: Pianist Yumeka Nakagawa moved to tears playing Chopin's 'Raindrop' prelude.

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Classic FM Classic FM — 2025-10-13

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