Chopin and Jane Stirling

 
We know Chopin for his beautiful music. But how many people are aware of his personal life, of the shadowy figure of Jane Stirling, his patron, and the links with Scotland?
 
To say that he was ungrateful for the financial help and support this former pupil, and alleged lover, of his would be an understatement.
 
Well, 212th years after her birth she is finally been recognized by a group of Polish artists determined to acknowledge the role that Jane Stirling, of Kippendavie played in the life of their most famous composer.
 
Tonight we attended an extraordinary and stunning tribute to her in the Holy Trinity Scottish Episcopal church in Stirling organised by Susan Stirling –Aird. Her husband, Patrick, is a great nephew several times removed of Jane.
 
Pianist Anna Debowska, a professor of music in Poland, played several pieces inspired by Chopin’s visit to Scotland and her husband, Marcin read from a collection of Chopin’s letters while Marek Kucharski narrated the story of Chopin’s life.
 
 
Traditionally there have always  been strong links between Poland and Scotland but this is one that has, until now, been never recognized.
 
This trio of artists aim to rectify that.
 
Meanwhile they plan a return visit to Scotland and are looking for venues to host their unusual musical tribute to one of Scotland’s forgotten heroines.
 
   
If ever there was a film waiting to be made- this is it.

Links: about the visit to Scotland
 
Click here to listen to Anna playing Chopin on Jane Stirling’s grand piano during his visit to Scotland in 1848.


Extra photo Narrator (left) Marek Kucharski with Sue and Patrick Stirling-Aird.

   For info about this artist project