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

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.