Everything went very well with the Onyx performance and residency. Despite their long trip, and evident fatigue, I had nothing but rave reviews of their masterclasses and their two school events: these guys are charming, able to address a wide variety of age and experience levels, and most accommodating. We loved having them here, and would be happy to have them back some time.
Mary Dupree, University of Idaho
The climax of the afternoon was undoubtedly A Sporting Chance” by Bob Chilcott. Here, Onyx Brass combined with the Wyke Regis Junior School choir…The 10 year olds were full of confidence and verve, articulating every word, singing and moving in unison and enjoying every moment — as did the packed audience.
Dorset Echo, November 2004
The performance was excellent in all respects. I feel honoured to have had musicians of such high calibre perform in our school hall! There was a perfect balance of listening and learning for the children and the whole presentation was delivered in such a lively, funny and child-friendly way. The children obviously thoroughly enjoyed it and to hold the attention of that many, some of whom were only 5 and 6, for nearly an hour on a Friday afternoon is no mean feat! I know that our existing brass players will have been inspired and I feel confident that many others will have been encouraged to take up a brass instrument. It is so important in these days of tests and league tables to expose children to a wider range of learning experiences and you certainly did that for us. It was also a real treat for the staff who were in there-we don’t usually have such exciting visitors! Please do let us know if there are any other opportunities we could take up, or of any concerts you are doing in Oxford-I’m sure my brass players would be interested.
Penny Dwyer, Music Co-ordinator. Windmill School, Oxford
