MARINO ONISSI

Marino Onissi was my first saxophone teacher and taught me for 7 years (2002-2009)  at school, both on an individual basis and also within a saxophone quartet which he led. During this time, I went from never having played a saxophone before to completing my Trinity College of Music Licentiate Diploma (LTCL), and a huge part of this was down to Marino’s excellent teaching.

Marino is an inspiring, enthusiastic and dedicated teacher who goes above and beyond for his pupils. He is incredibly patient and understanding through the (often difficult) process of learning a new instrument. Learning saxophone with Marino is one of the most meaningful experiences of my life and I am thankful to him for providing me with fun and inspiring lessons for so many years.

Marino is also involved in organising many other small ensembles including a saxophone quartet, which I was a member of for 7 years. He is an excellent band leader and his enthusiasm, sense of humour and passion for saxophone made our rehearsals some of my happiest memories of school.

Marino has the ability to create a feeling of community amongst saxophone and wind players which is really special. Since I have left school, he has arranged regular saxophone quartet meet-ups for ex-students, during his own personal time. The fact that many of his ex-students continue to speak with him regularly and meet up for rehearsals years after we have left school is a testament to the impact Marino has had on all our lives.

Thank you Marino for teaching me how to play the saxophone, for contributing to some of my favourite memories and for years of friendship after school.