Danny Driver

Join acclaimed pianist Danny Driver for an evening exploring the expressive power of variation form. Known for his technical precision and profound musical insight, Driver presents a thoughtfully curated programme that traverses the emotional and structural landscapes of piano literature.​

The programme features:

Joseph Haydn: Andante with Variations in F minor, Hob. XVII:6
Haydn's final major piano work, composed in 1793, is a profound exploration of double variation form. Alternating between a sombre F minor theme and a more lyrical F major counterpart, the piece culminates in an emotionally charged coda that anticipates the Romantic era's expressive depth. ​

Lili Boulanger: Thème et Variations in C minor
A rare gem from the prodigious French composer, this piece reflects Boulanger's lyrical depth and harmonic innovation. Composed in 1914, the work exhibits a delicate balance between introspective passages and more assertive sections, revealing the composer's unique voice and emotional range.​

Gabriel Fauré: Thème et Variations in C-sharp minor, Op. 73
Premiered in London in 1896, Fauré's only set of piano variations pays homage to the German tradition, particularly Schumann's Symphonic Etudes. The piece is noted for its structural clarity and French elegance, culminating in a vibrant set that reflects Fauré's mature compositional style. ​

Robert Schumann: Études symphoniques, Op. 13
This monumental set of variations, composed in 1837, is based on a theme by Baron von Fricken. The work is a tour de force, combining technical brilliance with profound emotional expression, and is considered one of Schumann's most significant contributions to piano literature. ​

Experience a journey through the nuanced landscapes of piano literature, where each piece offers a unique perspective on the art of variation.