Andre Bonetti
xylophone and a piano. It arguably has the mellowest sound of the percussion family, especially with the motor-driven vibrato effect. As a self-accompanied instrument the vibraphone is perfect as both a foreground concert or as background atmosphere music. André has a diverse range of styles and can suit just about any function, song requests are welcome (preferably prior to the event). The music is offered both amplified or not-amplified, to suit the room, audience and setting.
André Bonetti has been studying various forms of percussion for over ten years in a range of different settings and cultural backgrounds. His passion for the vibraphone developed in 2004 and has since been his most preferred instrument. Salty Handrail, the contemporary jazz trio, was formed in 2005 together with Mara Smeathers on saxophone and Nick Gray on drums. Recently the band expanded to include Alex Smith on double bass. Over these past years the band has played numerous regular and casual gigs, including venues such as the Brisbane Jazz Club and the Queen Street Mall.
In 2007 André travelled to the Australian Percussion Eisteddfod with the ‘Manneskraft’ percussion ensemble, directed by Jeff Jarrott. André also received first prize in the Senior four-mallet division and second prize in the Senior duet division together with Robin Camphausen. The ensemble won first prize in the Senior percussion ensemble division.
André has performed in some of Queensland’s leading ensembles and orchestras, most notably:
- Brisbane-based percussion ensemble; Isorhythmos,
- Sydney-based Japanese drumming ensemble; Taikoz,
- Brisbane Symphony Orchestra
- Queensland Youth Orchestras “Big Band (2008)” and “Wind Ensemble (2005, 06 and principal percussionist in 2007).
Currently, André studies jazz vibes and percussion in a bachelor of music undergraduate course at the Griffith University Conservatorium of Music, performing in many ensembles of many different styles.
