"...it was clear that Ma and Searles were having immense fun with this music..."

"this summery afternoon’s beautifully assembled and precisely executed performance finished

....sweet and longing in minor mode, in the style of variations around a central melody, complete with a final mischievous, improvised flourish"

Writer: Michael Wilson; Photo: Dalice Trost

Canberra CityNews (3rd November 2025)

"Quietly anchoring the ensemble throughout was Marie Searles at the harpsichord, whose sensitive continuo playing provided both structure and subtle colour, a steady presence beneath the more flamboyant textures and an essential part of the concert’s success."

Writer: Pepe Newton; Photo: Pepe Newton

ClassikON (23rd March 2025)

"Both these pieces are most attractive and the Williams/ Searles duo brought them to life."

"...high degree of musical skill, yet kept comfortable and welcoming with enthusiastically casual and informative introductions"

Writer: Graham McDonald; Photo: Peter Hislop

CBR CityNews (30th September 2022)

"Marie Searles also played the Walter copy, with sonatas by CPE Bach and late 18th century French composer Jean-Frederick Edelmann, joined by John Ma on violin for the second work. She then moved to the second fortepiano for a short impromptu by Franz Schubert, all played with great poise and skill."

Writer: Graham McDonald; Photo: Peter Hislop

CBR CityNews (10th August 2022)