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Colleen O'Brien

About Me

My Jazz Story

Vocalist & cellist Colleen O'Brien has developed an uncanny artistic versatility which is shown by her ability to sing & improvise while simultaneously playing cello like a jazz bass. In addition to writing lyrics to much of the music she sings, she uses her voice as an instrument to explore and develop an intricate interplay with her cello. She integrates an eclectic range of music, from jazz, brazilian, folk & chamber music to free improvisation. She also uses words & poetry to open the music to new possibilities for expression. Colleen O'Brien has led her own groups as well as performing as a solo artist and in duo and group settings with John Stowell, Art Lande and Paul McCandless of the group Oregon. She has performed at the Festival Internacional de Jazz in San Miguel, Mexico and also the Mt. Hood and Westcliffe Jazz Festivals. She was featured on the Denver PBS series Artist Profile. She has performed nationally and has taught at Naropa University in Boulder, CO. In 1980, Colleen met drummer & vibist Chris Lee. Together, they led their own band, produced five recordings & continue to actively pursue their musical vision with their duo Primal Mates.