University of Illinois Client Raves

1st Choice Music Photo of Sharesse Williams & Babette Hiles, UI Chancellor's Office of Special Events"Barbara, thank you so much for all your help throughout the years. You just don't know how much I appreciate your cooperation, creativity, and wonderful customer service. You truly help make my job easier, but more importantly, you help our office and the University put its best foot forward. " - Babette Hiles, Director of Special Events, UI Chancellor's Office - August 14, 2007

"The musicians, like always were cooperative, professional, and sounded splendid. Thank you for helping us host our guests in fine style." - Babette Hiles, Director of Special Events, UIUC Chancellor's Office Commencement Dinner - May 2005

"They were wonderful! Steve really enjoyed the music & commented on it. A "jazz buddy"of his even mentioned the “appropriateness" of the music when he was speaking at the podium. It was simply perfect. Thanks for all your efforts in pulling the group together and asking them to play some of the classic jazz numbers/artists." - Babette Hiles, Director of Special Events, UI Chancellor's Office Retirement reception, June 2005

"It has been a pleasure to work with you over the past 5 years and I am very appreciative of everything. Thank you so much!! We have been extremely happy every single time and will continue to use 1st Choice Music Services. You have been amazing to work with and I truly appreciate your understanding when things didn’t go so smoothly." - Erika R. Anzo, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS|SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK Graduate Programs - September 16, 2015

"The musicians were perfect! I would hire them again in a heartbeat. Thanks so much for providing great service. We look forward to working with you again. " - Donna Wilm, Office Manager, Legal UI Office of Technology Management -October 14, 2013

“Many thanks for your wonderful assistance this spring with our alumni awards dinner. The pianist provided just the right touch at our Friday reception with his keyboard magic. We here at the Alumni Association are grateful to you for providing such quality, professional service. - Ellen Amberg, UI Alumni Association

"1st Choice Music is the only choice (IMO)!" - Diane W. Marlin, University of Illinois, The Pampered Chef Family Resiliency Program - November 2, 2004

"Please accept my sincere thanks for providing such beautiful music at our event for Monsignor Duncan. He commented that the music was "just right" and very fitting for the occasion. I especially appreciate the light pieces you chose and the way you complimented the atmosphere instead of dominating it. I have planned many special events, but working with 1st Choice Music Services was by far the easiest performance to book due to your professionalism and organization. I will definitely be calling again." - Mark Randall, St. John's Catholic Chapel, Champaign, IL, Sept. 26, 2005

“Thank you for playing so nicely tonight and for all of the times when you have graced events over our years here.” - Larry Faulkner, former UI Provost, current President University of Texas at Austin

“You proved again and again that you are much more than an extremely talented musician. I had no idea how instrumental you would become in the entire process. From costumes to music to vocalists, you provided me with the leads to help transfer a concept into a performance.” - Robert Mindrum, Former Director UI Union Special Events.

“The trio was terrific! The event was a huge success, and I had people tell me that they thought the music was wonderful. At one point, I even saw people dancing! Please pass on my thanks! And, thanks again to you, Barbara. I trust you completely when we're looking for musical groups. I’ve always enjoyed the wonderful music your artists have provided... ” - Laura Wilhelm-Barr, UI Foundation & later UI Chancellor's Office

"Your professionalism is obvious, not only in your performance, but in your attention to detail. Thank you for being one of the "details" that I don't fret about once I have your services secured. This was our 3rd annual Awards Banquet, and we've been lucky enough to book your services each time. We hope that you will always be a part of this event." - Cheryl L. Kappes, International Affairs Development and Communications International Programs

Contact the Emmy Winning “Prairie Mother" Mrs. Barbara Hedlund9AM-9PM CST Daily Music Studio - 505 Eliot Drive, Urbana, IL 61801- 6727 Tel: 217-384-0874, No FAX| E-mail: vcello1@comcast.net