“It was clear from the first note that he possesses a maturity and a sense of style unusual for an 18 year old, and that his years of performing experience have given him poise and assurance ” – Laurence Jenkins

“Bird’s lilting rhythms and beautifully articulated expressiveness had acquired all the sheen and rubato a Chopin player needs” – Lindis Taylor, The Dominion Post

“Bird showed himself instinctively sensitive … to the sonority of the instrument under his fingers, making it sing and dance by turns” – Heath Lees, NZ Herald

“Bird’s impressive musicianship bestowed upon the music real character and grace … played with the maturity and insight of a gifted professional” – Heath Lees, NZ Herald

“Displayed a nice sense of the dramatic, a fine technique and real poetic sense. He is a pianist to watch” – John Button, The Dominion Post

“His performance grabbed the audience and he showed very clear control with his ears working all the time” – Gloria Saarinen

“Bird showed great flair and sense of colour in Ravel’s Alborado del Gracioso” – Joy Aberdein, Palmerston North Regent Gala

“Musicality becomes the product of maturity and experience. For Justin Bird, it is inherent in his play, his gentle personality and his remarkable ability” “A panoply of piano history under Justin’s hands, each of these masters was given their own personality”

“The recital was an artistic triumph” – Burt Saidel, The Oakwood Register