Sonaírí – A Triumphant Launch of a New Classical Duo

A storm may have been brewing outside, but inside St Peter’s Church of Ireland, the only tempest was musical. The debut concert of Sonaírí, the new classical duo featuring soprano Amie Dyer and tenor David Corr was a dazzling success. The aptly titled performance, “Awakening – An Evening with Sonaírí,” marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for two great young vocal artists.

Joined by the exceptional pianist and composer Maja Elliott, the duo delivered an evening that showcased the full breadth of their artistry—from soaring operatic arias to heartfelt renditions of Irish and contemporary favourites. Elliott’s own composition, “AHAM,” performed midway through the programme, added a beautiful introspective moment to an otherwise dynamic night of music-making.

The concert opened with a luminous performance of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Pie Jesu,” setting the tone for a programme rich in emotion and diversity. Dyer and Corr moved seamlessly through repertoire spanning Puccini, Verdi, Rossini, and Lehár, captivating a very appreciative audience Their performances of “Vilja,” “The Merry Widow Waltz,” and “O Mio Babbino Caro” were among the evening’s highlights, earning multiple standing ovations.

Sonaírí’s versatility shone through in cinematic and crossover classics such as “Parla Piu Piano” (The Godfather), “Moon River” (Breakfast at Tiffany’s), and “Nella Fantasia.” Each piece was delivered with a sincerity and connection that resonated deeply with the audience.

After the interval, the duo turned to musical theatre favourites, including “All I Ask of You” and “I Could Have Danced All Night,” before presenting their newest recording—an exquisite arrangement of the Irish song “Mo Ghile Mear” (My Gallant Hero), performed in Irish. The piece beautifully encapsulated the ensemble’s vision: to bring together classical training, Irish heritage, and artistic authenticity under the banner of Sonaírí, meaning “joyful melodies.”

Throughout the evening, both singers demonstrated not only technical mastery but an instinctive musical rapport, a sense of shared storytelling that transcended genre. Dyer’s crystalline soprano blended effortlessly with Corr’s warm, expressive tenor, creating the kind of partnership that feels both natural and rare.

The concert concluded with the moving duet “Time to Say Goodbye,” leaving the audienceuplifted and inspired.