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References
Jena Maric, Executive Director,
Greater
Bridgeport Symphony Orchestra
446 University Ave., Bridgeport CT 06604
203-576-0263; staff@bridgeportsymphony.org
(Kate is Personnel Manager)
Please call or contact
Kate if you would like to
- contact any of the people
who have written her letters,
or
- receive copies of the original letters by mail.
Excerpts from letters
SOLO
VIOLIN
“I had the distinct pleasure of working with Kate O’Brien
for my wedding ceremony music. The violin was just perfect, the
tone was just perfect. Kate is an absolute professional... she made
the planning effortless. Her collaborative efforts with the organist
at the church made for seamless teamwork... the mood was set by
the breathtaking music... I was in good hands from the beginning
and Kate helped complete the puzzle for the most important day of
my life.”
— Renee M., June, 2009
“For our wedding at Lighthouse Point... Kate's playing was
beautiful and she was also very helpful in suggesting which music
would sound best for the different parts of the ceremony. People
remarked afterward how perfect the violin was for the outdoor setting.
We highly recommend OBrien Strings!”
— Heather and Mike, May, 2009
“...thank you for performing at our (wedding and cocktail
hour). We received so many compliments from our guests about how
beautiful the music was. We would highly recommend your services.”
— Kelly and Mike, September, 2008
“Our residents thoroughly enjoyed your performance... thank
you so much for helping make our National Assisted Living Week so
special. With deep appreciation..”
— Kathy D., Recreation Director, September 2008
“Thank you so much for the beautiful music...! As you know,
all brides have a vision of what they want played at their wedding
and you were exactly what we envisioned!! You were very accommodating
to my wife and I regarding the customization of our ceremony and
the songs we wanted played.”
— Brian and Abby D., July 2008
“...thank you for playing at our daughter's wedding. I was
very impressed with your professionalism and would recommend you
highly to anyone (and already have). Every selection was just perfect!!
Thank you for your wonderful gift!”
— Tom and Mary S., June 2008
“Thank you so much for your talents and engaging personality
at our wedding... when the Minister stopped and turned to you as
you began playing, I was brought to tears. Thank you for your thoughtfulness
in addressing the variety of musical tastes... (and) the children’s
songs.”
— Lincoln, Susan and Taylor W., September 2007
“Kate really respected my opinions and requests for the ceremony.
All of my guests commented on how it sounded perfect in the chapel.
Afterwards, Kate (played) outside for guests and the wedding party
while the photographer was taking pictures. (We)would highly recommend
Kate O'Brien to all couples or whomever is interested in her services.”
— Dana and Tyron A., August 2007
“Thank you for making our date (Valentine’s Day) THAT
much better. We loved your playing the Brazilian tunes that took
us closer to home. Congrats for all your talent!”
— Isabella and Bruno, February 2007
"...It could not have
been better and the strolling was a huge success. My daughter made
a point of telling me how the music and your interaction helped
make the dinner special."
— Jon F., June 2006
"We
found Kate to be the ultimate
professional. With just a few
emails and one phone call, she
coordinated everything for our
ceremony. Not only did she learn
a new song, she played it so
perfectly — tears came
to everyone's eyes."
— Liz and Mark H., August 2005
"Your rendition of
Lascia Chio Pianga was beautiful... my family and friends
were amazed by your talent. We are proud to recommend you to those
in need of a true musical artist!"
— Carly and Mark K., February 2005
"My mother's birthday celebration
was a wonderful success thanks
to you! Thank you very much
for a very lovely and moving
concert. My mother was thrilled
and our guests couldn't say
enough wonderful things about
you!"
— Jeanne R., August 2004
OBRIEN
VIOLIN/GUITAR DUO <view
repertoire><hear
music>
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“The music was beautiful and perfectly complemented my ceremony
and cocktail hour. Our guests are still talking about it! I would
be more than happy to act as a reference.”
— Kim M., September 2009
“...a big THANK YOU for providing such lovely music and
ambiance for our wedding ceremony at the Webb Barn on August 29th...
our guests could not stop talking about how wonderful it was to
have contemporary selections, how beautiful it sounded. Pun intended,
but you really struck "the right note!”
— Kristyn and Neil, August 2009
"...it is not an overstatement to say we were THRILLED with
the performance you gave. Your willingness to learn a special song
and all the music selections helped enrich the afternoon immensely.
All of our guests gave you rave reviews too! You inspired confidence
from the get-go and that professionalism was only exceeded by the
actual musical performance itself.
— Jim M. and and Vince N., April 2009
“...Kate and the GUITARIST who accompanied her were wonderful
musicians. They interacted very warmly with our residents while
also providing some interesting music background stories. They played
a nice variety of music from classical to a bit of country and everything
in between. Residents really enjoyed their music and company.”
— Janice C., Director of Resident Services, April 2009
“...the fact that we could request songs really gave it
such a unique, personal touch. I only wished I could have sat with
the guests and listened to you two play the whole time. We will
definitely recommend you to anyone we know getting married."
— Kara and Dave C., December 2008
"Thank you for providing the music for the cocktail hour at
our wedding reception. Your VIOLIN/GUITAR DUO captured the spirit
of the occasion perfectly! Our guests were delighted each time they
recognized the songs. Thank you for making the planning aspect so
easy... I appreciated your helpful suggestions and advice. We could
not have been more pleased."
— Laura R., September 2008
“The VIOLIN/GUITAR DUO was perfect! You set just the right
tone for our ceremony. And the Dave Matthews song was very touching...
exactly what we had hoped for. It was a pleasure working with you
and we will not hesitate to recommend you to our friends and family.”
— Rute P., June 2008
“What a gifted and talented duo! Kate O’Brien’s
(VIOLIN/GUITAR DUO) entertained us with a wide variety of musical
styles... performing each with confidence and skill. The residents
immensely enjoyed the music played with such enthusiasm. We will
definitely be having them back.”
— Tina U., Program Assistant, March 2008
“We truly enjoyed your music at our Holiday Party, thank
you so much for making the evening special. Our table was doing
some “name that tune” during dinner and I’m sure
others were doing the same... we look forward to having you play
for us next year!”
— Kathleen F., December
2007
“Thank you so much for the wonderful job you did playing
for our wedding. You were especially wonderful with my grandson...
he admired the way you went to the tables and played anything requested.
I couldn’t believe the afternoon had gone by so fast.”
— Roz and Ed B.,
June 2007
“I got so many compliments
on our choice of having a string
quartet and then VIOLIN, GUITAR
and BASS TRIO play the cocktail
hour and reception. You truly
met all of our needs, and I'm
happy to pass the word on that
you and your ensemble truly
are the best around!”
— Jessica and Gabriel, December 2006
“...the VIOLIN/GUITAR DUO was just beautiful for our ceremony
and my guests raved about the strolling through our cocktail hour.
Kate had wonderful suggestions for music. The DUO arrived early
and were very friendly and easy-going, great on such a busy, crazy
day. I recommend OBrien Strings to anyone looking for a talented,
professional, and elegant way to provide music and ambiance for
any event.”
— Sara and Sean, October 2006
"The VIOLIN/GUITAR DUO was fantastic and we highly recommend
them for any occasion. Kate worked with me to come up with music
that fit the relaxed atmosphere of our intimate wedding... the music
set the perfect tone for the ceremony and entertained guests with
Latin and jazz standards as we greeted them afterwards. Many guests
commented on the high quality of the performance..."
— Myra W., May 2006
"I could not have asked for a better day or more talented
musicians. The fact that you were able to play more contemporary
music made the day so much more special. As you started to play
Maybe I'm Amazed, all of the groomsmen and the groom started
to hum along. Thank you so much."
— Adrianne and Ryan L., May 2006
"The VIOLIN/GUITAR made our ceremony more beautiful than I
could have dreamed... I especially loved how you played while walking
with us as we entered the hall. The guests loved it when you played
at their tables during the cocktail hour. We will recommend OBrien
Strings to anyone looking for a Violin Guitar Duo."
— Carrie and Paul M., August 2005
"From elegant classic music to country, knee slappin' tunes
— you and your musicians made our ceremony!"
—Lara and Jamie, September 2003
"Yonkers Public Library... engaged... VIOLIN and GUITAR...
for a program of Irish tunes as part of our series, Music Around
the World. Kate O'Brien is as efficient and professional with her
behind the scenes paperwork as she is performing on stage. I wholeheartedly
recommend OBrien Strings without reservation."
— Nancy W., Director of Communications, March 2003
OBRIEN
STRING DUOS (violin and viola, or violin and cello) <view
repertoire>
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"OBrien Strings (VIOLIN CELLO DUO) were a wonderful part of
our wedding... the music was beautiful and the musicians professional
and accomplished... (they) provided a wide array of selections from
which we found the perfect set of pieces to match our own taste.
We received numerous compliments on the music.”
— Laura and Justin S., December 2009
“The DUO of the VIOLIN and
CELLO perfectly accented the mood of our reception. Everyone kept
mentioning how beautiful everything sounded. We will be sure to
recommend you to our family and friends.”
— Amy and Forrest K., November 2009
“We wanted to thank you for
playing our wedding. Even during the rain and people running for
cover your music was very calming for everyone. Our guests had very
good things to say...”
— Kimberly and Alfredo M., September 2009
“One of the most memorable moments of our civil union was
your (VIOLIN and CELLO) playing. Our families and friends loved
the selection of music. We knew you would be that special touch
for our celebration.”
— Rob and Scott, June 2007
"Thank you so much... I really appreciate the extra time you
took to arrange a favorite song... So Happy Together at
the end of the ceremony was the perfect personal touch. You were
professional, reliable and extremely pleasant to work with throughout
the months of planning our wedding."
— Kristen H-B., May 2006
"...the musical pieces truly added to the air of romance
that we wanted... the tone of the VIOLIN and CELLO brought a peaceful
and melodic mood to both the ceremony and the reception... thank
you for your participation in helping our romantic dream come true!"
— Susan and Michael R., May 2006
"We had guests who would not leave your side the entire cocktail
hour so they could hear every note... your playing was a lovely
touch."
— Meg and Matthew S., May 2005
"We can't begin to tell you the number of compliments we received
telling us how beautiful... the DUO (VIOLIN and CELLO) music was.
After having discussed the songs we really wanted, we truly felt
comfortable with the remainder of choices in your hands, we trusted
you one hundred percent and you didn't let us down. We couldn't
have been happier."
— Meghan and Matt T., May 2005
"The VIOLIN and CELLO DUO added the perfect accompaniment
to our wedding. Thank you for all your help with the planning of
the music selections and for being so accommodating with our requests...
We'll be sure and recommend you to anyone looking for beautiful
music for their ceremony."
— Heather and Brian
M., May 2004 >
"(We) want to thank you for the wonderful ceremony music
your STRING DUO played... in particular, your original piece played
softly behind the reading... we received many compliments about
the music from our guests. We really appreciate the time you spent
with us choosing the music, especially when you played the songs
so we could hear them over the phone. We would gladly recommend
you to anyone..."
— David B., March 2003
OBRIEN STRING TRIO
(Violin, Viola and Cello) <view
repertoire> <hear music>
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“I’d just like to thank you for treating
us with sweet music during our wedding. Thank you also for working
on Panunumpa (The Oath)... our guests couldn't
believe it when you played a Filipino song and you pulled it off
nicely.”
— Bryan and Marlene T., November 2009
“We had many complements from guests... My brother in-law
came running downstairs excited at one point and said, "They're
playing Jason Mraz!" like it was the coolest thing in the world.”
— Jeff and Teresa P., November 2009
“Kate — you and your
TRIO were AMAZING! The music was everything I could ever hope and
wish for! Just wanted to let you know I am back from the honeymoon!
People have been calling and telling my family what beautiful music
was played at the ceremony!!”
— Michelle and David H., July 2009
"I wholeheartedly recommend Kate O'Brien Strings for any
event. Her TRIO absolutely dazzled my guests at our wedding ceremony...
their instruments and our music selections filled the space with
soothing harmonies at just the right volume... I wish I booked them
for the cocktail hour at the reception... I may just invent an occasion
to hear them again!"
— Jennine L., July 2009
" You were such a pleasure to work with and made the overwhelming
job of choosing our music a breeze with your wonderful suggestions.
We heard so many compliments from our guests about the beautiful
ceremony music that your string TRIO played. We would highly recommend
your string trio for anyone who is looking for beautiful and classic
ceremony music.
— Ashley and Jordan P., June 2009
“...thank you and the rest of the TRIO for doing such a
fantastic job at our wedding... Everyone was so complimentary and
just loved your selections... It seemed like you always chose the
right song at the right time. I thought I even heard some Coldplay
in your repertoire. Honestly, I cannot praise you enough - you were
both perfect and awesome and we are eternally grateful!”
— Brie and Kim, February 2009
“Just hearing (the TRIO) as I walked down the aisle gave
me chills and made everything very real. I appreciated your willingness
to work with the church musicians to make everything run so smoothly.
Thank you for arranging I'm Yours... to march back down
the aisle!”
— Becky and Jon T., October 2008
“Our residents thoroughly enjoyed the TRIO. The music was
an excellent combination of classical, opera, and songs from their
era... (what) really made it for many was the explanation of the
music.., especially as it related to the opera pieces. The quality
of the (TRIO) was a step above our usual entertainers and our residents
recognized it and appreciated it.”
— Mary R., Director of Therapeutic Recreation, October
2008
“...The TRIO sounded beautiful. Everyone commented on how
much they loved the music and so I wanted to pass along the compliments.
The song arrangement you did for us (of When I Wish Upon a Star)
was terrific. We’ll be sure to recommend you to anyone looking
for musicians for an event.”
— Sharon B., September 2008
“I just wanted to thank you for your help in making our wedding
day perfect... I am so happy with the wonderful job you did with
(my daughter), arranging the music to suit her VOICE and making
sure she was comfortable with the TRIO arrangements... your help
made it seem like she had been performing for years. We were so
impressed, as were our guests. You were so gracious in offering
to extend your time with us so we could continue to enjoy listening
and dancing to your selection of music.”
— Janica and Peter S., July 2008
“...countless people told us... how when they arrived it
was as though they were at a wonderful, peaceful concert that set
the tone for the entire wedding ceremony... with your group at the
core of blending it all together. One of the nicest parts of the
fun of planning this wedding was the seamless way you have that
left nothing to chance and gave us all a very high comfort level...
the musicianship of the TRIO was beyond wonderful (there were a
number of musicians among the guests who all commented on this,
too, by the way). Thank you so much for helping make the wedding
ceremony memorable for not only the bride and groom, but also for
all the guests”.
— Lynn F., June 2008
“(Kate’s) enthusiasm was evident from our first contact,
and her professionalism was much appreciated on our wedding day.
I didn't have to do a thing —
Kate and her TRIO arrived, set up, and played exactly what we had
agreed to and did a beautiful job. Their timing was also perfect,
each song seemed to end at exactly the right moment. I would not
hesitate to recommend Kate for a wedding or other event.”
— Sarah F., October 2007
“The music was divine and the trio had a way of blending
into the event. Clearly my guests were equally pleased and requested
that you continue for another hour or so, and you accommodated...
thanks a million for making our "deck warming" event so
memorable.”
— MaryAnn M., September 2007
“Thank you so much for the incredible music... and your professionalism,
organization, and responsiveness throughout our planning process...
we were absolutely thrilled with your ability to personalize our
ceremony by arranging the song One by U2 for our ceremony.
I would not hesitate to recommend you to others looking for musicians...”
— Anne and Seth, September
2006
“We really appreciated the mixture of traditional and popular
music. I particularly wanted to thank you for arranging the Irish
tune Sheebeg and Sheemore specially for us. It was composed
by my ancestor, Turlough O’Carolan, so I considered it my
“something old” on our special day.”
— Kerry and Seth,
August 2006
"I remember hearing Ben Folds during the prelude,
and the recessional song (Two of Us by the Beatles) was
perfect! Thank you for your talent and professionalism, and we will
pass your name on to anyone who needs the best!"
— Megan And Cameron
W., May 2006
"We sent (Kate) a CD of one of our favorite songs and she
arranged it beautifully for the STRING TRIO. It was so special to
have a song arranged just for us for our first dance! My friends
loved the Beatles songs too. (Kate) and her ensemble were very professional
and a highlight of our reception."
— Margaret and Kevin
F., January 2006
"...I loved what you did with Kyrie. Many thanks
for learning and adapting it for my Processional. We would be happy
to recommend you..."
— Allison and Ethan M., September, 2005
“...they were ready for the first note with the slightest
gesture from our clergyman. OBrien Strings set the mood for our
reception. The weather was perfect, the guests glowed, the bride
and groom were radiant, and suddenly a flight of notes sprang into
the air, the music seemed to simply appear on cue. Following their
(performance), the ensemble blended into the background and were
gone without to-do. No other group of players could have satisfied
as did yours.”
— Jessica and Patrick,
July 2005
"...your TRIO added a romantic and elegant ambiance to the
wedding ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner. We were most impressed
with how you played exactly what we had requested for the ceremony
and also with your selections for the remainder of the evening.
Numerous people at the wedding commented on how great your performance
was..."
— Amy and Matt C.,
October 2004
"Thank you for performing at our children's wedding... Your
professionalism, energy and genuine interest in the selection of
traditional Jewish wedding music was greatly appreciated. Our families
have complimented us on the elegance of your music."
— Lynne M., May 2004
OBRIEN STRING QUARTET
(Two violins, viola, cello) <view
repertoire>
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“The music was, to me, the most important part of our ceremony,
and your STRING (QUARTET) sounded breathtaking! Our song choices
were a little on the nontraditional side, and even when you didn't
specifically have a song listed in your repertoire, you went out
of your way to learn it... the entire process of planning the ceremony
music was flawless — setting
up the selections, timing... you and your instrumentalists were
professional, punctual, and very flexible when we decided to have
an outdoor ceremony (in cooler weather).”
— Alyson and David C., November 2008
“Your QUARTET played so beautifully and was a wonderful,
elegant addition to our ceremony. As working musicians ourselves,
my husband and I were honored to have truly professional players
at our wedding. Your willingness to learn and include our favorite
classical song was such a special touch.”
— Marissa and Shae A., August 2008
“Thank you for making my wedding day sound
beautiful! I got so many compliments on our choice of having a STRING
QUARTET play the ceremony. After many, many interviews with different
groups across the state, I am so happy that we found you for our
special day.”
— Jessica and Gabriel, December 2006
"Seeing shots of you and the QUARTET jogged my memory about
writing you... (to) express how profoundly amazing your contribution
was to our... wedding... we will definitely refer the OBrien Strings
to anyone in the market for some crowd pleasing reception music."
— John J., June 2002
OBRIEN
STRINGS plus Trumpet, Flute,
Harp or Vocalist <view
repertoire>
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"Your TRIO and TRUMPET ensemble was fantastic at our wedding
ceremony... I have heard from so many guests that it was the best
ceremony music they EVER heard. The trumpet fanfare was outstanding;
what an introduction for a bride! I really appreciate all your help
during the planning as well. You were a pleasure to work with and
I would highly recommend OBrien Strings to any bride-to-be."
— Samira and Patrick C., July 2008
“I just wanted to thank you for your help in making our wedding
day perfect... I am so happy with the wonderful job you did with
(my daughter), arranging the music to suit her VOICE and making
sure she was comfortable with the TRIO arrangements... your help
made it seem like she had been performing for years. We were so
impressed, as were our guests. You were so gracious in offering
to extend your time with us so we could continue to enjoy listening
and dancing to your selection of music.”
— Janica and Peter S., July 2008
“I want to thank you for making our daughter's wedding a
truly memorable experience! Your TRIO was absolutely perfect and
we have had many a nice comment from our guests. Our guests were
impressed with the wide range of musical selections that ranged
from classical to modern. I also want to thank you for your professionalism...
when last minute details needed to be attended to, you just quietly
took over, set up, and ensured that everything went smoothly...
(it) looked like your TRIO and the (VOCAL) soloist had been singing
together forever.
— Dr. & Mrs. Dale W., May 2008
“Your professionalism while dealing with our minor complication
was a comfort to me. I knew that leaving the difficult situation
in your hands was the right choice and in the end everything turned
out perfect. Thank you for taking the time to meet with (the SINGER).
The sound of the TRIO with her angelic voice brought tears to my
eyes. I cannot thank you enough.”
— Kristen P., December 2007
“Thank you so much for playing our wedding... (w/VOCALIST)
and for meeting with me to rehearse the special song I sang to my
husband. The TRIO sounded amazing as we all walked down the aisle,
and our guests were raving about the songs you played throughout
our cocktail hour... you were professional, dependable, fun... Bravo!”
— Melanie and Robert K., September 2007
“The highlight of our wedding was my daughter SINGING The
Wedding Song with your lovely violin accompaniment. Thank you
for... performing for us with such professionalism and grace.”
— Debra and Philip D., August 2007
“When the TRUMPET started to play, tears just filled my eyes...
it was the best feeling. I am so glad we chose to have you and the
TRUMPET perform our ceremony. (We) couldn’t have asked for
a more perfect day.”
— Brenda and Dave, December 2006
“When you have chosen the right person for the job, the stress
disappears and all that is left to experience is the love and joy
the day brings. The music from the (FLUTE, Violin and Cello) created
the ambiance I wanted... if you are looking for a group with class
and style, Kate O’Brien is the perfect choice.”
— Rebecca, October
2006
"Thank you for the fabulous job you and your (String TRIO
plus FLUTE) did at our ceremony. We got so many compliments from
our guests and I loved the arrangement of Buon Giorno,
it was beautiful!"
— Angela and Marc,
June 2006
"Thanks to you and your fellow musicians (TRIO plus FLUTE)...
your professionalism during the ceremony and cocktail hour was exemplary.
We really appreciate all you did... to suggest which pieces to play
and what instrumentation to use. We are so glad we went with OBrien
Strings and will recommend you without question."
— John and Diana F., September 2005
"Your music accented our ceremony in such a special and elegant
way...our guests kept commenting on how beautiful the ceremony was
because of the music (TRIO plus TRUMPET). Thank you also for your
help in choosing the music; I could never have done the program
without your help! Please feel free to use me as a reference."
— Kimberly K., January 2005
"Thank you so much for your performance... you and your musicians
were exceptional. We had compliment and after compliment flow in
from our guests who were floored by the quality of the TRIO as well
as the TRUMPET. Your music set the tone, literally, for what I sought
to capture with my ceremony: an elegant, meaningful and classical
service... I would be happy to speak with anyone who would like
to hear from a satisfied customer."
— Saraab M., August 2004
"I can't thank you enough for making our ceremony so perfect.
Your VIOLIN together with HARP and VOCALS made our wedding truly
moving and so personal with your mix of Classical and Celtic music...
you were so easy to deal with and accommodating; I would recommend
you... to anyone looking for special music for any occasion."
— Maureen H., January 2004
"I am still getting compliments on how beautiful the music was...
You did an incredible job with the special arrangement of For the
Love of a Princess for (my daughter) to walk down the aisle with
her Dad. Your suggestion of the addition of the FLUTE made the musical
presentation... even more dramatic... something that will be treasured
and remembered..."
— Helen M., September
2001
Please call or contact
Kate if you would like to
- contact any of the people who have written her letters, or
- receive copies of the original letters by mail.
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