Pianist Pavel Kolesnikov wowed a packed audience at the Severance Music Center in Cleveland with his captivating performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Keyboard exercise, consisting of an ARIA with diverse variations for harpsichord with two manuals” on September 24. Kolesnikov’s 75-minute program, part of the Severance in Recital series, showcased the complexity and beauty of Bach’s Variations, leaving the audience spellbound.
In a charming pre-performance speech, Kolesnikov shared insights on the architecture of the Variations and Bach’s counterpoint, setting the stage for a transformative musical experience. The pianist expertly navigated the intricate variations, crafting an other-worldly ambiance with his emotive playing and judicious use of the piano’s unique capabilities.
Kolesnikov’s technical prowess was on full display, as he leveraged the nuances of the piano to bring out the richness of Bach’s composition. From extremely slow tempos to explosive bass notes, he explored a range of playing styles to deliver a dynamic and engaging performance that held the audience’s attention throughout.
Audiences were so moved by Kolesnikov’s artistry that they sat in stunned silence after the final notes faded away, savoring the experience. The performance left a lasting impression, showcasing Kolesnikov’s remarkable talent and deep understanding of Bach’s music. Overall, it was a night to remember for both connoisseurs and newcomers alike, reaffirming the enduring power of Bach’s music in the hands of a masterful interpreter like Kolesnikov.
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Photo credit www.cleveland.com
