Pianoforte follows an eclectic group of young musicians from around the world—the contestants in the legendary International Chopin Piano Competition. Offering a rare behind the scenes, director captures the intense pressure these musicians face in an experience that combines tears of exhaustion and despair with the ecstatic joy of playing. The film is both a testament to the power of remarkable music and an intimate coming-of-age portrait of young pianists.

Is there any moment more beautiful than this? Holding our breath with the pianists, we are drawn deep into the film. The 21-day piano competition follows the 2021 Chopin Piano Competition held in Warsaw. Accompanying pianists as they battle themselves to reach mastery and progress to the final round evokes a solemn and bittersweet feeling. We witness the moving performance of 17-year-old Hao Rao, as well as glimpses of his childhood. Through the pianists, we are reminded of Rick Rubin's words: "To live as an artist is a way of existing in the world and refining the senses to perceive subtler tones." (Yang hee)