The String Brothers’ Story
 How a guitar and bass duo turned into a network
of the finest musicians in Western New York

The String Brothers began with the musical friendship between double-bass player Kevin O’Brien and guitarist Dave Ruch.  In 1994 the two musicians united to perform jazz and dinner music throughout Western New York.  Taking inspiration from their instruments, as well as their friendship, the new duo called themselves The String Brothers.

From the very beginning The String Brothers had a sophisticated sound that made them popular at country clubs, weddings, and wherever a touch of jazz could set the mood.  The Buffalo News summed up the early String Brothers’ style quite well:  “They swing with softness and jam with restraint, tying the classic works of Gershwin and Ellington together with a modern jazz twist.”

In early 1997, shortly after completing The String Brothers’ CD, “Soft Swing Duets”,  Dave began to experience hand pain which ultimately led to a one year hiatus from musical performance. By the time he was able to play again, Dave was already headlong into a new career in music education, sharing his love of music with young audiences throughout New York State.  

Meanwhile, Kevin continued forward under The String Brothers’ name, pairing off with a revolving door of Western New York’s finest guitarists.  He also began to perform more frequently in trios and quartets, playing both jazz and classical music, with some of the region’s best musicians on keyboard, violin, saxophone, and many other instruments.   The positive response to these performances was overwhelming; it was also a revelation.  No longer just a guitar and bass duo, The String Brothers would now feature extraordinary musicians on a wide variety of instruments. 

Today, The String Brothers are dedicated to ensuring that the musical aspect of your event is easy, enjoyable, and exactly what you want.  We believe you deserve the finest musicians performing your favorite music on the instruments of your choice.  You deserve musicians who are prompt, professional, courteous, and appropriately attired.  But, most of all, you deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are in the hands of experienced professionals.