Lily O'Brien

Lily O'Brien is a freelance writer and editor with a passion for the performing arts. She has written feature articles and previews for a variety of publications including Downbeat, JazzTimes, Marin Arts & Culture, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Marin Independent Journal, and Strings magazine. She is a singer who has performed professionally in a variety of genres, and an avid world traveler and bicyclist.

Articles By This Author

Lily O'Brien - April 17, 2023

After 22 years, the well-loved music director is saying farewell to the Bay Area and venturing further afield.

Lily O'Brien - February 13, 2023

This year’s PIVOT Festival will showcase the music of Black and women composers, works that haven’t been recorded until now.

Lily O'Brien - December 19, 2022

The ensemble’s longtime music director leads the annual New Year’s concerts before stepping down in January.

Lily O'Brien - November 7, 2022

The star soprano, who makes her SF Opera debut this month as Violetta, says hard work is at the core of everything she does.

Lily O'Brien - October 10, 2022

Jocelyn Hagen’s Renaissance-inspired composition is a contemporary favorite, and Pacific Chorale opens its season with the multimedia work.

Lily O'Brien - May 9, 2022

California Symphony’s artist-in-residence talks about creativity, composition, and a new piece premiering live on May 14.

Lily O'Brien - April 18, 2022

Artist Ranu Mukherjee and choreographer Hope Mohr talk about their in-depth collaboration.

Lily O'Brien - October 30, 2021

The jazz saxophonist talks about preserving, innovating, and expanding on his illustrious musical roots in upcoming shows at SFJAZZ.

Lily O'Brien - July 7, 2021

Min tells SFCV about her anything-but-traditional approach to the pipa and her new soundtrack project with jazz guitarist Rez Abassi.

Lily O'Brien - February 13, 2021

Celebrating a new album out this week, the Grammy-winning soprano shares her backstory and insight into her embrace of diverse musical styles.