Chopin and Champagne by Candlelight

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of music and elegance, as renowned concert pianist Sofía Medina performs a breathtaking programme of Chopin’s piano masterpieces in the candlelit splendour of St Mary Le Strand on the church's brand new Steinway model B grand piano. Located in the heart of London, the church is a hidden architectural gem, a magical setting that perfectly complements the romantic brilliance of Chopin’s music.

Frédéric Chopin is celebrated as one of the greatest piano composers in history—a poet of the piano whose works are rich in emotion, nuance, and technical brilliance. His music, full of passion and elegance, continues to enchant listeners around the world. Experiencing it live, in such a historically and acoustically rich setting, is a rare and unforgettable treat.

Begin your evening with a complimentary champagne reception served from 7:40pm, before the performance begins at 8:00pm. Surrounded by some of London’s finest bars and restaurants, this is the perfect way to start your weekend in style.

Featuring
Sofía Medina (piano)

Programme (All Chopin)
Bolero op.19 in A Major
Polonaise Op.40 no.1 in A Major
Nocturne Op.15 no.3 in G minor
Polonaise Op.40 no.2 in C minor
Nocturne Op.40 No.2 in Db Major
Polonaise Op.53 in Ab Major
Ballade Op.23 no.1 in G minor

Sophie Medina
Spanish pianist Sofía Medina, born in Madrid in 1998, has built a diverse career as a concert soloist, chamber musician, and historical performer. Demonstrating remarkable talent from an early age, Sofía began her musical education at just five years old. In 2007, she enrolled at the “Centro Integrado de Música Padre Antonio Soler” in Madrid, studying under Anatoli Pozvoun and Lydia Rendón. After graduating with distinction from both her undergraduate and Master of Performance degrees at the Royal College of Music, she recently completed her Artist Diploma there, serving as the 2023-2024 Mill Williams Junior Fellow under the mentorship of Professor Dina Parakhina.

Throughout her career, Sofía has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple honors and distinctions, as well as various prizes in competitions. Notably, she received the prestigious "Juventudes Musicales de Madrid" award, presented by Her Majesty Queen Sofía of Spain at the National Auditorium in 2019. In 2023, she achieved significant success in various national and international competitions, including the Help Musicians Award (March), first prize at the Don Benito National Piano Competition (April), first prize at the “Kendal Taylor Beethoven Competition at RCM” (May), and both first prizes at the Budapest Danubia Talents International Piano Competition and the Duo Competition (November).

As a soloist, Sofía has performed extensively across Spain in venues such as Segovia, Ávila, Guadalajara, Valladolid, Burgos, Córdoba, Jaén, Granada, Málaga, and Madrid. Her international performances have taken her to countries including Russia, Italy, Portugal, Amsterdam, and London, where she has graced prestigious venues like Steinway Hall, Saint James’s Piccadilly, and Cadogan Hall.