By Benevolence Mazhinji
What happens to Bach’s Goldberg Variations in the hands of Dr Dominic Daula is nothing short of the pristine sweetness of listening to a harmonious melody that offers you a palpable sense of release from tension. Being the only pianist in this country to carry the Goldberg Variations in his repertoire, his performance’s maturity and serene songfulness stood as a testament to his remarkable artistry and dedication.
The Goldberg Variations were initially written for a harpsichord with two keyboards. This means that playing it on a piano with one keyboard is particularly challenging due to the potential collisions between the hands. Daula said that the performers must find “clever solutions” to avoid playing the same note with colliding hands. This is why I felt so fortunate and privileged to have experienced the variations in live performance.
Despite these inherent difficulties, he was remarkably composed, and his masterful touch created a tapestry of sound that felt like therapy. During the more rapid and technically astounding variations, a collective gasp and a whispered “wow” would ripple through the Beethoven Room. Many audience members were nodding their heads and swaying with the unfolding melodies.
When the final, exquisitely veiled Aria returned, it was as if a long, cherished dream had gently concluded. The emotional resonance of the performance was undeniable, culminating in a standing ovation. Yet, the most poignant testament came from a lady in the front row, whose eyes, initially watery, were ultimately blinded by tears. Her raw, uninhibited emotion perfectly encapsulated the profound impact of Dr Daula’s playing. His offering touched the very heartstrings of those who listened, leaving behind an indelible mark of beauty and shared human feeling.
