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“Jade Strings is a group you can not pass up! We had a cello and violin at our ceremony. Then a violin for cocktail hour. Everything was PERFECT. I had guests coming up to me all night commenting on how mesmerizing the performance was during cocktail hour. If you want a group that will keep your guests in awe, choose Jade Strings."
Any Enneagram Eights in the house? You’ve found a kindred spirit in Jade Gibson, the entrepreneur behind Jade Strings. In 2018, Jade combined her Business degree with a lifetime of instrumental expertise to launch Jade Strings. Since then, the entertainment collective bearing her name has performed at more than 800+ weddings and events in Florida, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Colorado, California and (far) beyond. Her collective as as been published in Vogue, People Magazine, Style Me Pretty and more.
Jade had the pleasure of studying under Joan Stewart and Lisa Matson, was a member of the Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, and has performed with artists including The Who, Amy Grant, Game of Thrones, Frankie Vallie, and more. A recent graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University, Jade is a two-time winner of the school’s competitive Runway Program Business Incubator.
In addition to her role as the Founder and Owner in charge of all things Jade Strings, Jade excels at telling stories through music and helping clients transform familiar songs into original arrangements. Jade Strings is a part of the biggest day of someone’s life every weekend,” says Jade. “That energy is hard to replicate—but every weekend, we still cry. We stay invested.”
Guiding clients through the soul-searching process of song selection, and playing either the violin or viola at select events throughout the year.
While Jade can accommodate any style, she’s personally drawn to powerful arrangements with an air of gothic romance. Her biggest musical influences are Edward Elgar, Tame Impala and Lana Del Rey.
Her favorite moment as a musician was when she performed alongside THE WHO in September 2019 just months before Covid hit. "It was a dream come true... something to hold unto through the slow months of COVID-19".
Seamlessly transitioning guests from one moment to the next—a crucial component of crafting a top-notch event experience.
Tommy excels in the science of creating the right energy. “If guests need to chill and catch up with family, I provide that. If they need to dance the night away without a care in the world, then get ready! If they need a little of both, I take them on a journey,” Tommy shares. “It’s all about creating an experience by meeting the needs of everyone attending. This makes a couple’s wedding the most talked about event of the year.”
If Tommy could spin anywhere in the world, he'd choose the Red Rocks Amphitheater, where attendees dance beneath a million stars while enjoying views of the Denver skyline. Luckily, he’s already had the opportunity to work backstage at the venue for artists including Diplo, Flume, and Deadmau5.
Seamlessly transitioning guests from one moment to the next—a crucial component of crafting a top-notch event experience.
Tommy excels in the science of creating the right energy. “If guests need to chill and catch up with family, I provide that. If they need to dance the night away without a care in the world, then get ready! If they need a little of both, I take them on a journey,” Tommy shares.
If Tommy could spin anywhere in the world, he'd choose the Red Rocks Amphitheater, where attendees dance beneath a million stars while enjoying views of the Denver skyline. Luckily, he’s already had the opportunity to work backstage at the venue for artists including Diplo, Flume, and Deadmau5.
From humming along as her sister played the piano to performing at Carnegie Hall, Sarah’s musical career has spanned New York, Ohio, Florida, and beyond.
Sarah’s classical training includes instruction by violinist Virginia Wensel. She also studied under Dr. Julian Ross as a violin performance major at Baldwin Wallace University, and was a member of the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. While Sarah is able to take on the tone of any event, if she could sneak just one song onto your list, it would be “Video Games” by Lana Del Ray... preferably played on the electric violin. Sarah is Jade Strings’ lead performer on both violin and vocals.
When she isn’t performing at a wedding or event, you’ll find Sarah using her degree in Elementary Education to provide students with private lessons in violin, vocals, and ukulele. Outside of the classroom, Sarah enjoys yoga, cooking homemade meals with friends and family, and thrifting for the perfect performance dress.
Marrying classical training with influences from contemporary pop, R&B, and Latin artists.
With Sarah at your ceremony, you’ll enjoy a beautiful performance infused with emotion. Afterward, expect an upbeat evening filled with high-energy instrumentals and vocal stylings.
Is “Eminence Front” on your must-play list? You’ll be happy to know that Sarah played with The Who at BB&T Center and Amalie Arena!
Just call her a one-gal orchestra. Sapphire’s instrumental diversity is equaled by her depth of performance experience...and yes, she also happens to be Jade’s sister.
Sapphire studied under Joan Stewart (violin), Michelle Byrd (vocals), Rafael Padron (Classical Guitar), Laura Roth (Harp), and is self-taught on Ukulele. As an Enneagram 2 (The Helper), empathy has always come naturally for Sapphire. This gift evidences itself through her role as the lead talent agent for Jade Strings—she ensures every client feels valued while identifying the perfect musician for their event.
She wholeheartedly believes music has the power to bring people together, as evidenced by her own storybook experience. In early 2020, Jade Strings was invited to the island of Captiva to perform at a British couple’s small destination wedding. As fate would have it, Sapphire played ukulele for this wedding on the beach and was later asked to lunch by the bride’s younger brother. Four years later, they are now engaged and planning their own wedding!
In 2021, Sapphire obtained her Bachelor's degree in Health Science with a minor in Entrepreneurship at just 20 years of age. Outside of Jade Strings, she stays busy fixing up her first home and splitting her time between the United States and the United Kingdom.
Using body motions and facial expressions to portray how music is supposed to feel. “My harp teacher showed me that facial expressions can help tell the story of the piece, and my guitar teacher taught me that every note is important and each one deserves a chance to sing,” says Sapphire.
Relaxed indie vibes paired with a bubbly sense of fun and excitement. Think Billie Eilish on a beach with a ukulele.
Sapphire has traveled to 22 countries in pursuit of her goal to see all of the seven wonders of the world before she turns 30! One of these trips led to the opportunity to fulfill her dream of performing at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, Austria in 2019. This historic building has been standing since 1137, and served as Mozart’s wedding venue.
With an accomplished classical guitarist for a father, it goes without saying that Laura's primary source of musical influence resides closer to home than most. Under her father’s guidance, Laura learned how to tailor her technique to fit the mood a piece of music is intended to evoke—a skill that continues to earn her rave reviews as a member of Jade Strings.
If Laura could perform with anyone, she’d return to Carnegie Hall to collaborate with Amy Winehouse or Mozart...or maybe both. Her training includes violin instruction at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts, and she has played with Amy Grant, Game of Thrones, ELO, and more.
If you happen to look up in the sky and see a private jet, chances are, Laura may be riding along! She is a part time flight attendant while working to obtain her pilots license in SWFL. While she earned a full-ride scholarship to the Bower Music School in 2016, Laura is set to graduate with a degree in Biology and a minor in Psychology from Florida Gulf Coast University.
Mood-conscious musical performances backed by years of intensive training.
Believing that preparation is the key to perfection, Laura brings a sense of calm, readiness, and order to every event environment she graces.
Laura is a huge Michael Jackson fan. If she can find a way to play “PYT” at your reception, she’ll do it. (As an added bonus, her go-to track is guaranteed to get guests out on the dance floor!)
A great pianist can carry an ensemble, regardless of song or genre—and Melissa has proven to be one of the most reliable and talented pianists in Southwest Florida for over three years and counting! It’s an added bonus that she has a heart of gold.
For Melissa, becoming a performance artist has been a life-long journey. Born and raised in Cuba, she began her classical training at an early age and has performed as a professional musician since high school. In 2019, Melissa immigrated from Cuba on a full scholarship to study at FGCU's Bower School of Music, where she performed throughout various communities in SWFL—even taking the international stage at a music festival in Hungary.
When she isn’t performing with Jade Strings, you can find Melissa spending time with her sweet baby girl or creating content for her followers on just about every social media platform!
Whether performing a stirring solo or collaborating with other artists, Melissa uses the piano to create a mesmerizing soundtrack for emotional moments.
Melissa loves the passion and nuance of classical music, which she uses as the foundation of each performance–from jazz to pop to salsa!
Melissa and her husband recently released an original album of piano music inspired by the birth of their daughter. You may have even heard some of their original songs circulating on social media!
With two opera singers for parents, it was inevitable that Hannah would eventually pick up an instrument of her own. Beginning piano lessons at the age of 5 and harp lessons at the age of 7, Hannah was already well on her way to becoming the insanely successful vocalist and instrumentalist she is today!
Hannah has performed and competed as a musician for 20 years and counting. An early role as the harpist for Three Rivers Young Peoples Orchestra eventually led to stages including Carnegie Hall, Heinz Hall, The Benedum Center, and the Byham Theater. She received a Bachelor of Music in Harp Performance from Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music and a Master of Music in Harp Performance from the University of Michigan—both summa cum laude.
Outside of Jade Strings, Hannah is also a content creator on TikTok, having been featured in the New York Times in 2021 for building her social media platform during the pandemic. And if that wasn’t cool enough, Hannah’s cover songs on Spotify have earned over 14.5M streams.
Moving musical performances conducted with ease and grace. Having such a wide range of performance experiences, she is equally comfortable behind the scenes, in the chorus, on the dance floor, or taking center stage!
Pop culture motifs with a classical twist. Whether it’s a film score or the Top 40 hit, Hannah can transform any playlist into a performance that perfectly matches the moment.
If Hannah could have a jam session with anyone, she’d choose Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan. Three powerhouses in one room? That’s one way to break the internet…
A true triple threat, Heather is a classical crossover soprano, headlining entertainer, and performance coach all in one.
With a vocal quality matched by her storytelling ability, Heather brings a sense of genuine warmth and entertainment to every event. Her concert appearances include Fauré’s Requiem and Vivaldi’s Gloria at Fort Myers Symphonic Orchestra, Naples Concert Band, and the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, and she has also performed in the national tour of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
Heather studied under the Metropolitan Opera’s Brian Schexnayder among others, and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Oklahoma City University with a Bachelor of Music degree. Apart from Jade Strings, you’ll find Heather teaching the next generation of artists at her private voice studio, Heather Ivy Music.
Touching souls and bringing tears to guests’ eyes with her voice—particularly when a rendition of “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman is involved.
Class, calm, kindness, and an overall sense of “I’ve got this” paired with musical influences ranging from Andrea Bocceli to Adele.
In addition to her work with Jade Strings, Heather has performed at signature shows in New York City, across the United States, and around the world on luxury cruises!
Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, Brelynn has been playing cello for nearly half of her life. She revels in the opportunity to play a pivotal role in special occasions for clients, and loves music’s ability to turn a regular moment into a cinematic experience. With a calm energy that’s evident in every performance, it’s no surprise that Brelynn has played cello alongside creators from La La Land and The Greatest Showman at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.
Brelynn has traveled throughout England, France, Germany, and Switzerland to share her gift and passion for cello. She is currently under the direction of Si Cheng Liu, and studied under Lowell Adams prior to pursuing higher education. She is set to graduate from FGCU in December of 2024 with her Bachelor of Music Education. When she isn’t performing with Jade Strings, she plans to transfer her ever-present sense of calm to the yoga mat as a certified instructor within the next year.
Getting to know who you are through her instrument; she believes that music is the universal language.
Fun and fresh! Her bright personality and transcendental playing effortlessly bring a smile to every listener's face.
Brelynn is a lover of fashion and makeup. She loves buying secondhand clothes and will probably find her future wedding dress at a thrift store.
Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, Yasel is a top-tier saxophonist whose musical and cultural roots add a distinctive Latin flair to the Jade Strings mix! After immigrating to the US in 2005, he quickly rose to his current position as a highly-acclaimed musician in Southwest Florida.
Yasel has trained on soprano, alto, tenor, baritone, and bass saxophone. From mellow and classical to bright and jazzy, Yasel performs in a variety of expressive styles to suit your needs and match the mood of your event to a tee. As SWFL’s top saxophonist, Yasel has found a home at Jade Strings since 2019. He is known for being the life of the party, and can often be found on the dance floor with his saxophone. To Yasel, performing is so much fun that he can’t believe he gets paid to do it!
Getting the party started! Yasel is no wallflower musician–he enjoys dancing alongside guests with his saxophone in hand. But don’t worry: he knows exactly when it’s time to dial things back and play atmospheric jazz for a relaxed sit-down dinner. His range is unmatched!
Latin fusion with a splash of classy jazz. Yasel is an expert at blending styles to create a unique soundtrack that’s truly unforgettable.
Honored to have passed his citizenship test in 2020, Yasel played the National Anthem for his Citizenship Ceremony. Although he will always cherish his Cuban roots, Yasel is forever grateful to be an American.
Trace’s early days on the saxophone consisted of following along with songs performed by his favorite players, but it wasn’t long before he kicked things up a notch and began playing professionally at the tender age of 14. Under the guidance of many teachers, he honed his style-shifting skills throughout high school by teaming up with various bands and groups around Tampa and St. Petersburg. Noting his passion for music, an older friend suggested he look up Berklee, which Trace quickly target-locked as his next ambition! From 2016-2020, he achieved his goal while training at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts.
In addition to his work with Jade Strings, Trace’s mission to take his playing to the next level has been realized via roles as a bandleader and sideman in Florida and beyond. When he isn’t on stage, you’ll find him with his nose in an essay, biography, or classic novel. Turns out that stuff everybody else hated in high school is actually pretty cool.
Love a sax solo? You’ll be happy to know that Trace doesn’t shy away from taking front-and-center stage when performing. In fact, as a bandleader and freelance recording artist, it’s his comfort zone!
“No genre, no rules” is Trace’s personal motto—meaning he’ll be a perfect fit for your event no matter what style you have in mind.
For Trace, there just might be a future on Food Network…or at least a fully-equipped chef’s kitchen where he can pursue his interest in cooking and experiment with unique flavor combinations.
George’s aspirations to become a professional musician first manifested at the age of 8, when he began receiving free cello lessons in school. Only a few days after picking up the cello for the first time, he watched a televised concert and announced to his parents that he would be on that stage one day. Now, 24 years later, George’s talent has taken him from busking on the streets of England to playing in orchestras and ensembles around the world.
George’s studies are what brought him “across the pond,” having received degrees from the University of Chichester in the UK, Louisiana State University, and the University of South Florida.
Outside of Jade Strings, George is an experienced cello teacher with a private studio of over a dozen students, and he takes joy in watching each student grow and master new pieces and techniques. You can also find him playing locally alongside the Florida Orchestra, Venice Symphony, and Punta Gorda Symphony.
Collaborative ensemble work that allows him to intuitively connect with other musicians and improvise freely.
Classical arrangements to move the soul–from the sweet harmonies of chamber music to the woven melodies of a string quartet.
George has an identical twin brother who was a fantastic violinist, but chose a different path of study in college. Talk about the potential for an incredible duet!
After starting violin at the age of seven, Lydia went on to study privately among masters of the instrument and received degrees in Music, Entrepreneurship, and Sociology from Florida Gulf Coast University. Although her roots are orchestral, Lydia constantly seeks out opportunities to perform outside the classical realm. From playing in pit orchestras for musicals to street performing on the waterfront in Washington, D.C., she loves stretching her range and finding new ways to form connections with others through music.
When she’s not playing for Jade Strings, Lydia is giving back to her community. In 2022 alone, alongside her friend and fellow musician, Rick, Lydia has hosted fundraising events which have raised thousands of dollars for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Golisano Children’s Hospital.
Expressive and collaborative small ensemble performances.
Lydia’s style is inspired by the endless variations of R&B. She enjoys building upon and ornamenting a melody in ways that speak to the soul of listeners.
Lydia is a multi-instrumentalist! She is currently learning piano and guitar, but already has a solid foundation as a singer, ukulele player, and bassist. She’s also diving into the world of music production—talk about talent!
A lifelong musician who has been performing and educating for over four decades, Jim’s musical roots extend back as far as primary school. An alumnus of SUNY Oswego and the Drummer’s Collective in Manhattan, Jim’s musical excellence has landed him on stages in locations ranging from New York City, to Los Angeles, Florida, Ethiopia, and the blue waters of the South Pacific.
Versatility is the difference between a good musician and a great musician, and Jim—who plays vibraphone, the steel drum, and a traditional drum set—can surely be described as versatile! From capturing attention as the front man to blending in as a supporting percussionist, he is an adaptive performer who adds energy to every event.
In addition to time-honored artists with tropical roots (think Jimmy Buffett, Bob Marley, and Elvis Presley), Jim is inspired by modern pop artists including The Weeknd and Dua Lipa. When he’s not performing, he continues to share his passion for music by teaching percussion to students of all ages.
He is the beat! As a percussionist, Jim provides the steady rhythm that guests can dance the night away to, bringing hours of musical enjoyment to audiences at a variety of private events.
A seamless blend of traditional and contemporary. Jim is able to add a modern touch to any classic song—and, on the flip side, he is able to use his versatility and classical training to perform unique takes on any current pop hit!
Jim’s dance floor energy extends to the track. Outside of Jade Strings, he’s a long-distance running coach who has personally completed 17 marathons and three 100-mile ultramarathons. No sweat. (Okay, maybe a little.)
With a diverse background that spans multiple instruments and genres, Steve is a dynamic guitarist and percussionist—and an incredible asset to Jade Strings. Steve’s early introduction to ensemble elements including piano, percussion instruments, and guitar gave him a well-rounded understanding of rhythm, tonality, and musical theory, which he continues to apply both as a performer and a composer.
Since honing his writing skills while pursuing a degree in Music Composition, Steve has enjoyed exploring electronic music, music technology, and production. His original compositions have been premiered by acclaimed chamber groups including the Cleveland Chamber Symphony, Ensemble Variance, and the Kenari Quartet.
Reimagining songs to fit a different instrumentation or style while maintaining the essence of the original.
Steve is a “stylistic chameleon”—he is able to adapt to any style and enjoys playing everything from rock and pop to jazz, reggae, and Latin music.
Steve feels most at home when at his desk writing, recording, and producing original music.
When “Can’t Help Falling in Love” tops the charts of your favorite songs, you just might be destined for a role in the wedding and event industry.
With a Bachelor of Science degree in Resort and Hospitality Management and a long history in the wedding world, Lexie currently serves as an executive assistant for Jade Strings and Simply Sapphire Beauty. Prior to joining Jade Strings, Lexie played a key role in assisting brides and helping couples enjoy their wedding experience to the fullest as a catering sales manager. Her industry background makes her an invaluable asset to the team!
When she isn’t fine-tuning a Jade Strings event, Lexie can be found at the beach or a park spending time with her husband, toddler daughter and new baby boy.
Building intentional relationships with couples to ensure all of their carefully-selected details come to fruition.
Lexie exudes warmth, energy, and a personable professionalism which immediately sets clients at ease.
As a catering sales manager, Lexie was the last person who drove or walked the bride to the ceremony location. She loves sharing in the experience and the excitement of our brides, so if you need a hype girl...you’ve found her!
Born and raised in Cuba, Giselle began her musical journey at just eight years old after being captivated by the sound of piano music drifting through the streets during a walk home from school. Although she initially wanted to play the piano, she found her true calling after picking up a violin. Fully committed to becoming a performance artist, Giselle pursued a rigorous music education path that culminated in a degree in professional music by the age of 18.
Soon after, she began performing professionally in orchestras, symphonies, and private venues throughout Cuba. As a member of Jade Strings, she brings her rich musical heritage to performances in Southwest Florida and beyond, captivating audiences with her mesmerizing abilities on both the electric and classical violin.
Knowing exactly what each moment of an event needs. Whether it’s providing elegant pre-ceremony music, enhancing the bride’s grand entrance, or energizing the reception, Giselle’s passion for music is contagious.
A unique blend of energy and elegance grounded in classical training.
If Giselle could choose anyone to have a jam session with, it would be the renowned Croatian cellist Hauser, whose dynamic performances inspire her.
A native of Tampa, Natalie has been an integral part of Jade Strings for five years and counting. With 13 years of professional experience, she has played with icons like The Who, The Eagles, Michael Buble, The Beach Boys, and more!
Natalie holds a BA in Psychology from Stetson University and an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. Classically trained by her professional violinist parents, Natalie supported herself throughout grad school by performing.
When she’s not on stage with Jade Strings, you’ll find Natalie working as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, hanging out with friends and family, trying new restaurants, and going to trivia nights.
Providing a versatile musical experience at events. She masterfully delivers beautiful prelude and ceremony music, followed by a high-energy cocktail hour performance on the electric violin.
A jack of all trades, Natalie brings a sense of grace under pressure to every wedding.
Natalie has performed at Universal Studios and recorded for the TV show Disney Fairytale Weddings.
Originally from Kuwait, Charles moved to the United States at 17 to study music. He went on to earn both a Bachelor in Piano Performance from Cleveland State University and a Master degree from the University of South Florida. After establishing a foundation in classical music, Charles began to embrace Pop and Rock, blending his formal education with his explorative and curious nature.
When he’s not playing with Jade Strings, you’ll find him singing his heart out at Jellyrolls at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, where he’s a pianist for a dueling piano experience!
Whether performing solo at a cocktail hour or as part of a string ensemble, Charles leans on his extensive background in both classical and contemporary music to deliver exceptional performances tailored to any occasion.
Chill, laid-back vibes with a burst of energy when it’s time to perform.
Charles’ notable performances include playing for King Charles during an official royal visit to the British Embassy of Kuwait!
Originally from Cuba, Sandra graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2021 with a Bachelor degree in Music Performance, and earned her Master of Science in Psychology from Florida International University in 2024.
An expressive and emotionally-driven artist, Sandra excels at infusing the joy, grief, and love of her life’s experiences into authentic, dynamic performances that captivate audiences. After moving to Miami, she began working as a therapist for children with autism, where she integrates music into daily therapy sessions. She effortlessly balances dual careers as a therapist and a violinist—and we love her for it!
Connecting with music and her audience. Sandra views each performance as a unique journey of expression and storytelling.
Sandra infuses every set with authenticity and passion. Her performances never fail to impress and uplift a crowd!
At the age of 10, Sandra became the youngest performer to play as a soloist in the most important auditory in Cuba!
“Who were those girls playing at your wedding?! They were awesome! That’s what we’ve been hearing from so many of our guests after having Jade Strings perform on our big day. Looking back, our wedding day wouldn’t have been as special as it was without the help of their amazing talents."
From your own experience as a guest, you know that it takes more than a pretty venue, a signature cocktail, and a baked potato bar to create an unforgettable atmosphere. Not to worry. After performing at 350 + events and counting, that’s our expertise!