Erin Higgins

Erin Higgins has been playing the viola for over 13 years and is happiest when making music with and for others. Originally from North Carolina, she is now based in Pittsburgh. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Viola Performance from UNC Greensboro under the tutelage of Scott Rawls and completed her master’s degree at Carnegie Mellon University as the graduate assistant of David Harding. She has over a decade of experience as an orchestral musician and has attended renowned festivals including Brevard Music Center and Eastern Music Festival. Erin has performed with numerous orchestras throughout Western Pennsylvania and, as a chamber musician, has participated in masterclasses with groups such as the Kronos Quartet, Thalea String Quartet, and Sphinx Virtuosi. She has also furthered her training at the international Festival del Lago in Ajijic, Mexico. Offstage, she is a passionate music educator committed to passing on the knowledge she has gained from her mentors to the next generation.

How did you first start playing with Radiant Strings?

I started playing with Radiant Strings during the Christmas season of 2023, and I officially joined the team in fall 2024.

What makes Radiant Strings special to you?

The people in Radiant Strings are the best part about being a member of this group. I always have so much fun playing with everyone on the team and cracking jokes between songs. I think Radiant Strings is special not only because of the strong sense of community between its members, but also because of our broader connection with the city of Pittsburgh. We have performed in many of the quintessential Pittsburgh spots like Phipps Conservatory and PNC Park, and we even have the Steelers’ favorite anthem, “Renegade,” in our library of music. I love that the members of Radiant Strings get to share music with our city in both private events and community concerts.