Audience feedback from 3 October 2024 recital at Greyfriars, Edinburgh.
‘Here is a rising star’.
‘The final movement of Haydn’s Eb sonata was brimming with elements of humour, technical
brilliance and poise.’
‘After reading the programme notes about Dominic Downs’ musical career, my expectations
were high. I was not disappointed. He began by communicating directly with the audience,
giving an interesting and illuminating commentary on the pieces he was going to perform.
When he started to play, I was enthralled by his authoritative delivery.’
His choice of music was excellent and well-balanced. The spritely textures of the two Mozart
fantasies were followed by the darker tones of the three Chopin Nocturnes. Next, the
Chaminade étude provided a delightful contrast in pace and colour. Dominic’s last piece, a
Haydn sonata (played impressively from memory) was a rich, passionate demonstration of his
mastery of the piano.
Simon Parkin, adjudicator, EPTA UK National Competition, 4 February 2024.
‘[Dominic] kept the listener gripped [with] great delicacy of sound …he really took care of every note…a very imaginative and enjoyable performance, there’s an individual character to his playing that I very much enjoyed.’
Dominic was delighted to be awarded first place in the 18+ age group.
BBC1 NW Tonight 23 October 2023.
Described as ‘An exceptional talent with a bright future ahead of him’
Lancaster Guardian, 17 October 2023.
“Dominic is now a popular recital pianist, with a loyal fanbase in the North West, performing both classical and jazz programmes.”
David Collins, Lakeland Composers Bulletin
Published Review ‘Dominic’s playing is assured and mature, with genuine musical exploration’. 23 May 2023 Recital in Lancaster.
Linton Stephens (BBC Radio 3 Presenter)
RNCM ‘Under-represented’ competition judge, Radio 3 presenter and bassoonist Linton Stephens described Dominic as the pianist who ‘really drew me in with his performance’, on awarding him first prize (March 2023)
