Last weekend David and Robert Childs were in Novara di Sicilia in Italy to perform as guest soloist and conductor working with the Nebrass Ensemble, the Brass Band of Santa Lucia, and Messina Brass.

The duo trained the bands, and performed in two highly successful concerts.

Special event

Maestro Giuseppe Paratore, conductor of Messina Brass told 4BR: "For Sicily this was a special event, a unique moment. Robert transmitted his professional and musical experience giving a lesson in musicianship and interpretation. David demonstrated his unrivalled talent. The instrument seemed part of him, the technique and expression left our audience breathless."

My musicians thought the Childs instruments were possessed by magic such was their beautiful sound. It was very special indeed, like seeing Maradona and Messi playing together!Maestro Giuseppe Paratore

Direction

In addition to conducting the Nebrass Ensemble in Phillip Sparke’s 'Processional' and the Brass Band of Santa Lucia in Franz Von Suppe’s overture 'Poet and Peasant', the Cory MD also directed Messina Brass in accompaniment to David in the Karl Jenkins 'Euphonium Concerto' and Rodney Newton’s 'Caelidh'.

David told 4BR: "It was great to guest with a band where the conductor knew exactly what I wanted from the outset! It made life so easy and the band responded tremendously well. The audience seemed to enjoy it too, particularly the encores!"

Standing ovation

Following a standing ovation David wowed the packed audience with some favourites jaw dropping lollipops, before being joined by his father in a special performance of the 'Pearl Fishers' duet conducted by Maestro Giuseppe Paratore.

The MD added: "The understanding between the two musicians was incredible. Their performance and humilty an example of genuine greatness. My musicians thought the Childs instruments were possessed by magic such was their beautiful sound. It was very special indeed, like seeing Maradona and Messi playing together!"

David will return to Italy next month where he will give two concerts in Treviso and Possagno in Venice.