I was particularly moved by the opera, it will be one of those moments that will stay close to my heart forever: so uplifting and moving as well as being extremely motivational.
Assistant Chief Nurse
Division of Medicine & Clinical Support
"Andy Smith has become one of our most valued animateurs; he strikes exactly the right balance between informality and authority with young people, and his enthusiasm and imagination are always infectious and inspiring."
Nick Ponsillo
Manchester Camerata
"The Honour composition is a very special, ingenious, anthemic piece."
"With his undoubted imaginative creative drive, Andrew's musicianship displays a high level of craftsmanship and imagination."
Dr David Fligg
Principal Lecturer of Classical Music / Leeds College Of Music
"Honour was such an emotional piece of music – very moving."
"The difficult and important thing is to be able to achieve a genuine, creative and expressive piece of music. This was, I felt achieved last Friday and it reflects the talent and creativity of Andy Smith."
Dr Philomena Alston
P M Consultancy
"At a classroom level, this fantastic, inclusive project proved to be transformative from the moment that the children became involved and by the time we got to the performance the positive change in the children was truly astonishing to see..."
Teacher / Manchester Camerata Project
"Andy fully involves the young people in the compositional process so they have a strong sense of ownership."
Dr Paul Whittaker
Music and the Deaf
"A musical treat… Beautifully harmonised."
The key to your success was the level of participation you had from everyone in the room - such a great way to inspire people to engage with classical music.
Leader
Sheffield Music Hub
"I have rarely found a speaker that has been described as inspirational by so many people. Thank you!"
Debbie Doughty
Ascribe Ltd
"The course led by Andy Smith was superb and I was so inspired."
Participant / Sing Up North West
"It was inspirational to see how you managed to get the children working towards such a compelling story that was so well received."
Ant McCarthy
Cheshire Fire Service
Thank you for your inspirational work with the children and students that culminated in a performance with a mega wow factor. I have seen some magical moments in rehearsal when ideas and music come together under your guidance.
Lady Angela Burton
Phillip Barker Charity
"The best musical event I have seen in 20 years of teaching in a primary school."
Headteacher / St Mary’s School Chester
Creative unpacking of a well known classical piece - very inspiring.
"The week at Channings Wood HMP was challenging in many different and unexpected ways, and was also a remarkable success. In particular Andy's music, and the way he generated it with the men, gave the project terrific cohesion. He communicates brilliantly with a group and manages to generate great music effortlessly."
Tim Yealland
Artistic Associate, Education / English Touring Opera
