HeartStrings Waco was conceived during the 2020 global Covid-19 pandemic, as people were sheltered-in-place to stay safe.
Thousands of musicians found themselves at home, out of work, and unable to share the music that they loved.
From this, an idea was born. Why not bring the music to the audience, at their homes or businesses?
My name is Kristin Mortenson. I am a violinist in Waco, TX and am a member of the Waco Symphony and Brazos Valley Symphony.
I also am a substitute violinist with the Fort Worth Symphony, Corpus Christi Symphony, and several other regional orchestras in Texas.
In addition to my classical orchestral experience over the past several decades, I have also played concerts with Bernadette Peters, Ray Charles, Mannheim Steamroller, Dionne Warwick, Bob Hope, Anne Murray, Marvin Hamlisch, Red Skelton, Doc Severinsen, Rich Little, Shirley Jones, Wayne Newton, and the rock band, Kansas.
I hope to brighten your day!
I will come to your home or place of business and perform a short, completely personal solo violin recital for you.
You choose the occasion, the day, and the music, and I’ll make it happen.
I can also bring gifts—flowers, candy, or whatever will make the occasion perfect for you or your special someone.
In a word…anything!
I have a list of suggested repertoire linked on this website, or I can play a personal selection for you, if audio/video of it is readily available.
Certain requests may require an additional fee.
HeartStrings' fees are priced per selection and a recommended serenade is 2 to 4 selections. But I am happy to come play as little as ONE special song for you or your loved one!
Pricing is available upon request.
My "home" area is Waco/Woodway, but I will consider traveling to other areas, for an additional fee.
I perform with orchestras all across the state of Texas, so I'm usually headed somewhere, violin in hand!
If you celebrate it, I can play for it! Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations...all are perfect occasions for a special serenade.
But why not also celebrate all your "little victories?" How about a Taco Tuesday special delivery for your loved one? Boss's Day? Administrative Professionals' Day? I've got you covered!
Let's visit today about what would make any special day even more perfect.
Performances at private residences will generally be done outside, either on your sidewalk or on a patio, deck, or porch.
If you want me to come inside your home, or to a place of business, I will be wearing a mask and my hands will be freshly sanitized. I will require my audience to remain at least six feet from me at all times.
(Of course, any outdoor performance is dependent on weather.)
Absolutely! In addition to solo violin performances, I have a string quartet with whom I play regularly--other members of the Waco Symphony. I also play with a wonderful pianist, Tommy Edds.
So, if you'd prefer a quartet or violin/piano music, we can definitely make that happen!
I'm happy to play for anyone, anywhere! Here, I visited my relatives at the Fairview Cemetery in Bastrop. They seemed to appreciate it.
Over Christmas, my friend Tommy Edds and I recorded some carols for the Seventh & James "Cookies & Carols" online sing-along. Enjoy this rendition of "Do You Hear What I Hear."