Who is Daniel de Borah?
A father, classical (and sometime jazz) pianist, music educator and part-time hedonist.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Work less, play more.
Who inspires you and why?
My partner, by her unfailing kindness, generosity and thoughtfulness, and her startling knack for navigating a purposeful, positive path amid life’s chaos. My children, by their boundless enthusiasm, energy, curiosity and good humour. My students, intermittently, by their courage in the face of music.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would suggest we all slow down. We seem obsessed by speed and the path of least resistance, chasing success as if it were some sort of tangible arrival point. These days, patience and presence feel almost radical – like small acts of rebellion. Slowing down helps us create more thoughtfully and build connections that carry weight beyond the moment.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Any place where I can frolic in warm ocean waves with the kids before the adults retreat for a delicious meal paired with a classy red. Thankfully, we’re spoilt for choices within a stone’s throw of Brisbane that fit the bill.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The Brisbane River at twilight has a quiet, magnetic beauty that feels deeply connected to the city’s character. As a shifting palette of colour ripples across the water and reflects off the skyline, the whole scene takes on a luminous, almost cinematic quality. Approaching the river on Southbank after a long and intense day discussing music at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, I feel especially grateful to pause and bask in that scene – a sight that captures the spirit of Brisbane.
What are you currently reading?
A Fraction of the Whole by Steve Toltz – whose every sentence inspires a gasp of laughing disbelief.
What are you currently listening to?
Rosalyn Tureck playing Bach – as close to a religious experience as I get.
Happiness is?
The bottom third of a bottle of Champagne shared with my soulmate.
What does the future hold for you?
Music and silence, fate willing.
Daniel will be the featured soloist on piano alongside the Queensland Symphony Orchestra – as they present Mozart’s Piano at the Queensland Conservatorium Theatre – Griffith University, Brisbane, from 19 – 20 June 2025. For more information, visit: www.qso.com.au for details.
Image: Daniel de Borah – photo by Darren James