References

Greater Bridgeport Symphony Orchestra
446 University Ave., Bridgeport CT 06604
203-576-0263; staff@bridgeportsymphony.org
(Kate was 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

“Thank you for the beautiful music you provided at our wedding dinner. .. The selections and style were exactly what we wanted and envisioned to make the evening complete. We would also like to compliment you on your professionalism regarding the manner in which you conduct business. Your interaction with us and our guests made the evening especially enjoyable.“
— John and Mary P., October 2011

“Kate was a pleasure to work with... a great personality and the ability to play a wide range of music from classical to pop. We received many compliments during and after the (party). I would definitely recommend Kate for any occasion, as she...made the night a smashing success!“
— Silvio and Cara, September 2011

"We both highly recommend you for any wedding/event. Your playing was simply beautiful and definitely added to the intimate atmosphere of our wedding ceremony. It truly turned out to be a unique, special and memorable day for not only John and I, but also for everyone who attended!"
— Nikki and John S., August 2010

“(Kate) allowed us to customize our ceremony music to our tastes... she put on a beautiful performance of “Bitter Sweet Symphony” and many other selections throughout the ceremony and cocktail hour. We received many compliments from our guests... I would recommend her to my family, friends, or anyone looking for the perfect violinist for their event."
— Lindsay and Chris L., June 2010

“So many of our guests complimented us on our choice of violinist. I was able to maintain my emotions all day, but when you started the first lines of "One Hand, One Heart" I almost broke out in tears of joy! It was absolutely beautiful! Thank you again for helping to make our day so magical!”
— Allie and Grant, June 2010

“(Kate) was great to work with from start to finish: she provided a professional agreement with clear details about her services; she assisted us in selecting music that included classical, pop standards, and modern and that was unique to our tastes and the day; and she assisted us in choosing a song for our first dance that was both meaningful to us and well suited for the violin. We received many compliments from our guests... we highly recommend Kate... “
— Ken and Kyra G., November, 2009

“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

“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 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

OBRIEN VIOLIN/GUITAR DUO <view repertoire><hear music>
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“The music sounded beautiful! I got many compliments on the music, and the people were impressed with The Rain Song. Thanks again!“
— Heather and Ciro, July 2011

"I can't stress enough how much we enjoyed having the Kate O'Brien VIOLIN-GUITAR DUO play at our daughter's wedding in August 2010. The best compliment we and Kate could have received was the best man and his now wife secured Kate O'Brien for their wedding on Jan. 8, 2011. I also would like to say thank you for your suggestions on the music as well as being very professional and helpful. It was a delight to work with you."
— Toni-Anne and Joe P., January 2011

" We could not have been more pleased with the music that was provided for our cocktail hour! Our friends and family would not stop raving about the variety of songs that you played... actually playing "Name that Tune" while you were performing. They were just as impressed as we were with your extensive repertoire. I am sure you realized quickly that our friends/family were not shy about requesting songs - thank you so much for accommodating them! It was a pleasure working with you!"
— Christopher and Zoe C., September 2010

"Thanks so much for the great job you did at our ceremony! The music was a fantastic mix of classic and contemporary songs, and you and your guitarist were just right in terms of creating a warm atmosphere without overwhelming everybody. We would absolutely recommend you to anybody else having an event in the area, and would suggest to everybody to go with the VIOLIN/GUITAR DUO. I'm sure the other instrument selections are great too, but we think it would be tough to top what we had... "
— Luke and Jill S., June 2010

"We used O'Brien Strings VIOLIN-GUITAR DUO for our brunch wedding reception. We were extremely pleased with everything. Kate and her partner played beautifully and hit all our requests. A number of our guests commented on how much they loved the music and a few of them even complimented the DUO directly. Additionally, Kate was extremely professional and easy to deal with before, during, and after the event."
— Erica and Gregg D., May 2010

“...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

“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

"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

OBRIEN STRING DUOS (violin and viola, or violin and cello) <view repertoire>
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“The music (VIOLIN and CELLO DUO) was simply beautiful and just what we wanted. I really appreciate how easy it was to work with you given that I was planning our wedding mostly through email from another state... I would highly recommend your services to anyone looking for a dependable and quality string ensemble."
— Sarah S., May 2010

“The STRING DUO gave our wedding ceremony that extra bit of class we were looking for... (we) would recommend your services to any couple looking to have live music played during their wedding ceremony. Everything was perfect!”
— Angela and Eamonn B., June 2010

"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

"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) 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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“..just wanted to let you know how many compliments we got regarding your(TRIO) performance at our wedding. People thought that it was so nice and unique, which is exactly why we liked you guys as well...Thank you so much, you guys did a fantastic job .“
— Jodie and Mike G., October 2011

“Thank you so much for the wonderful music you provided for our daughter’s wedding. We could not have been more thrilled with your lovely rendition of Bizet’s “Carillon“ for her walk up the aisle. I was so moved to hear it again, and I can now connect it with two joyful and memorable moments...Many guests remarked at how splendidly the music fit the occasion. They especially liked the “Colors of the Wind,“and “Panis Angelicus“...Your professionalism and willingness to personalize music made this experience all that we hoped for. I am heartily recommending O’Brien Strings to friends and family who have upcoming events...
— Ann and Chuck D., October 2011

“...thank you and your (TRIO) for the outstanding performance at Megan and Danny’s engagement party. The two parts...that were particularly special for me were first when you jumped right in with the “Eensy Weensy Spider“ and other children’s songs for Brooke (she was really amazed that there was music coming out of your violin!!); and then your playing of “Danny Boy“. That was a song that my Dad always used to sing to Danny and it brought back good memories.
— Jim M., September, 2011

“The TRIO was absolutely wonderful! And absolutely professional ... the music was like out of a movie, PERFECT! ...when the kids picked out some contemporary stuff I didn't know if that was exactly what I was looking for ...Amy was escorted by her Dad to... “Something" (by the Beatles). It brought tears to my eyes just watching her and watching my son gaze down the aisle at his bride. It just doesn't get any better than that."
— Chris L., September 2010

“(We) just wanted to let you know how very much we appreciate the beautiful job you did at our wedding at the Waterview... The music was so unbelievably beautiful and elegant and set a very special tone to the entire wedding and cocktail hour... I will be sure to recommend you to anyone I know who is getting married (or anything else!) in our area... you are extremely talented!!"
— Dave and Michaela A., August 2010

“Thank you again for playing at the wedding of our son and now daughter-in-law. We received so many compliments from our guests. And thank you for the beautiful rendition of Romeo and Juliet. I knew it would touch my husband. We have one more son who is not married yet, and it is my hope that we will see you again someday."
— Mary Ann R., June 2010

“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 compliments 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

“...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

“...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

“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

“...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

"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, Piano, Harp or Vocalist <view repertoire>
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“We wanted to thank you so much and the PIANIST for doing a wonderful job at our wedding! From beginning to end, working with you was wonderful.  You always responded promptly to my emails and questions ...and when we were a little more specific with our music choices and how we wanted them to be played, you thoroughly listened and were very cooperative...you and the pianist played all our music requests beautifully. During the ceremony...our musical interlude was particularly a special and peaceful moment...“
—Lindsay and Christopher B., June 2011

“...thanks you for the tremendous job you and your fellow musicians did at the wedding. Many guests, including the Pastor... wanted to know how I picked so great a group of musicians (TRIO) that played so well together and with the VOCALISTS (my daughter and son)! “
— Patty and Charles N., September 2010

“We couldn't have been more pleased with the String TRIO and TRUMPET performance. We really appreciate the time and effort that you devoted in working with us to customize the pieces so that they were perfectly coordinated with the timing of the procession... In fact, I don't think there was a dry eye in the room (I know mine certainly were not!) at the crescendo of "Pas d'action" as Jennifer began to walk down the aisle. We will happily recommend you to any and all of our friends for any upcoming weddings!! Thank you again for such a marvelous contribution to the best day of our lives.”
— Jackson & Jennifer, September 2010

“Your group (violin, FLUTE and Cello) played so beautifully... but listening to it on the video I am even more impressed with how amazing you sounded! ...you were such a pleasure to work with and so helpful during an exciting but stressful time... Eric and I are so happy you and your group were part of our wedding day!
Many, many, many thanks.”
— Caitlyn and Eric L., August 2010

“The combination of your TRIO, the TRUMPET and organ created such a beautiful sound in our church. All of our guests as well as the priest and bride and groom commented on how much it added to the elegance of the day. Thank you also for being a joy to work with from the start... You told me to sit back relax and enjoy and you made that possible. Thank you again for the glorious music.”
— Mark M., June 2010

“The string DUO was absolutely beautiful! ...Everyone we have talked to said it was such an elegant touch. Thanks also for... accommodating our requests. (“How Beautiful” with VOCALIST)”
— Angela and Mike, October 2009

“Thanks again, Kate. You and your accompanist (PIANO) were perfect!"
— Danielle G., March 2009

"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 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 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.