Ahmer'e Blackman

Ahmer’e Blackman’s musical journey began at age four, when he begged his parents for a violin, and took shape through early piano studies and a formative experience hearing the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in elementary school. He went on to study double bass with Jeff Grubbs before discovering the cello at Rogers CAPA and Pittsburgh CAPA under Younga Reitz, an instrument that quickly became his primary focus. Ahmer’e studied Cello Performance at Duquesne University with Adam Liu of the Grammy-winning Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. As a freelance musician, he has performed with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, toured internationally with the National Youth Orchestra of the United States, recorded with artists including Il Divo and Lea Salonga, and served as a Teaching Artist with the Guardians of Sound Hip-Hop Orchestra.

How did you first start playing with Radiant Strings?

I was approached by Nicole [Radiant Strings founder] after our years of friendship and playing together — I believe she first pitched the idea sometime in 2019. My reaction, without hesitation, was “Yes!” It’s hard to turn down something I love, especially when it means being surrounded by my friends and making music with so many great musicians. I am a founding member of Radiant Strings and have been on the journey with the group from the very beginning of its development.

What makes Radiant Strings special to you?

What makes Radiant Strings special to me comes in three waves. The first is simply that I get to make music. I work full-time in the food and beverage industry, so being able to play in my free time is my favorite way to escape from reality.

The second wave is the nearly two decades’ worth of friendship that forms the foundation of this group — the connections, shared history, and trust that have all helped build this brand. It’s rare to go to “work” literally surrounded by your friends, all doing what you love.

The third wave is the emotional connection we get to create through music. At weddings, the music tells the couple’s or artist’s story, fosters shared experiences, encourages dancing, and helps turn fleeting moments into lasting memories. In concerts and recitals, the experience becomes immersive and transportive, offering listeners a brief escape from reality.