WARSAW, Poland (AP) — The winner of the world's 1st Chopin competition on historic pianos says the search for the original sound restores the appeal of classical music and helps artists understand the composer's intentions.

Tomasz Ritter of Poland was named the best of 30 young pianists at the 1st International Chopin Competition on Period Instruments this month. He obtained top notes from the jury in all three stages of the contest, despite fighting severe pain in his arms and shoulders that hit two weeks before the competition and put him on painkillers and physical therapy.

His eyes lit up Friday when the 23-year-old pianist explained that historic pianos require a light touch but render a nuanced sound and melody to better reflect the notes written by the 19th-century composer.