Vox Amicum Brass has one main goal as an ensemble, and that is to represent Irish brass students and musicians to the best of their ability. Ireland traditionally doesn’t have a strong culture of brass playing and study, and we think it is crucial that we set a strong example going forward for other up and coming chamber brass ensembles that there is opportunity to play and promote this kind of music in Ireland.

Ultimately, the future of Irish music depends on the young students and players who create and continue the network of music around the country. We think it is extremely important to connect to the largest audience possible so we can spread our message to other aspiring brass players and young Irish musicians: let your voice be heard.

Shortly before the Coronavirus lockdown began in early 2020, we began producing online weekly videos as a way to promote our ensemble and share our love of chamber music with others. We soon realised in light of the restrictions that this regular production of music was not only a huge opportunity for growth in the climate of the lockdown, but also a very important source of relief and inspiration for many around the country.

There were many notable highlights of this online, which grew from strength to strength.

• We were delighted to be joined by trumpet superstar Ryan Quigley for a premiere of John Parkinson’s explosive Latin big band chart, Malaguena.

• As part of our orchestral excerpt series, we were joined by several string players from around the country for a stunning rendition of the brass chorale from Mahler’s Symphony No. 3.

• Our largest project to date, we enjoyed the company of over 40 young Irish musicians studying around the world for a full-scale breathtaking rendition of the iconic brass chorale from Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 ‘Resurrection’.

As an Irish ensemble, we have a particular interest in Irish charity and wellbeing, as well as the development of opportunities for young Irish musicians.  We as ensemble members all met each other through the music services throughout Ireland and we owe everything to the different organisations around the country who develop and train Irish musicians. One of Vox Amicum’s main future goals is to set up a bursary scheme for promising young Irish brass
players, so that they may have the chance to pursue musical study to their full potential.

In June 2020, we released a tribute video to our dearly missed friend Karl Kirby, on the anniversary of his untimely passing. His courage, strength and talent inspires us all to continue our journeys in music, and the ensemble’s name was created with him in mind- (Vox Amicum = Voice of a Friend). We were privileged and moved by the subsequent donations to Waterford Hospice, a sum of €2,165, which will undoubtedly help provide care and relief for others in the Waterford community.