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

Artist Spotlight

Sascha Jacobsen Writes From His Roots

Lily O'Brien - June 14, 2019

The bassist’s latest piece is a tribute to his Sephardic ancestors.

Artist Spotlight

Christian Reif: Moving Up

Lily O'Brien - June 7, 2019

The young conductor muses on his time in San Francisco and about what’s next.

Artist Spotlight

Jazzmeia Horn is Making Her Mark on Vocal Jazz

Lily O'Brien - June 6, 2019

In advance of her gig at SFJAZZ, the accomplished young singer talks about her influences, challenges, and the confluence of politics and music.

Artist Spotlight

Nikki Einfeld Carves Out Her Niche in the Bay Area

Lily O'Brien - May 20, 2019

The go-to coloratura talks about her special relationship with local ensembles and upcoming performances in wide-ranging roles.

Preview

Abraham in Flames: Art and Authenticity Through a Persian Lens

Lily O'Brien - May 6, 2019

Polymath Niloufar Talebi’s operatic performance piece premieres at Z Space this week.

Artist Spotlight

Derek Tam: A Major Force in the Bay Area’s Early Music Scene

Lily O'Brien - April 26, 2019

The young keyboard wizard and conductor chats about his new position as executive director of the SFEMS.

Feature

Silkroad Ensemble Continues Its Mission of Radical Cultural Collaboration

Lily O'Brien - April 20, 2019

The multinational group offers the local premiere of a new work for Cal Performances on May 3.

Artist Spotlight

Gerald Clayton Talks About Jazz and the Creative Process

Lily O'Brien - April 13, 2019

The pianist and composer plays SFJAZZ with his trio April 20–21.

Artist Spotlight

Joyce DiDonato Mingles Genres in Songplay

Lily O'Brien - February 18, 2019

Everyone’s favorite mezzo-soprano adventures outside the opera world with her latest album.

Artist Spotlight

Howards End, America Finds the Opera in a Classic Novel

Lily O'Brien - February 9, 2019

Composer Allen Shearer and librettist Claudia Stevens talk about the creation of their new opera, which premieres in collaboration with Earplay this month.