August Zillig is an adept violist from Seattle Washington whose musical talents have brought him to performances across the globe. Beginning his musical studies from a young age in the rainy city, he excelled through his early education, receiving recognition on regional and national levels in both the U.S. and Canada. Most notably, August was the principal violist of his high school’s chamber orchestra which won 1st Runner Up at the 2018 National Orchestra Cup held in New York City for their performance of Shostakovich’s 8th String Quartet. Here, his viola section was specifically recognized, being named Best String Section in the competition.

In 2020, August began his collegiate musical studies in New York City, at New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, where he studied with Karen Ritscher. Thriving both musically and academically, August graduated magna cum laude from NYU with a Bachelor of Music in May of 2024. During his time at NYU, August launched his professional career, performing in operatic and musical theater pits, recording sessions, symphonies, and chamber ensembles. In June of 2024, August performed at Lincoln Center with internationally renowned drag artists Monét X Change, Sapphira Cristál and Thorgy Thor for the premiere of their show Soundcake, which highlights and celebrates the intersection of classical and queer artforms. August is also a frequent performer of new music, collaborating with composers as well as ensembles such as the East Coast Contemporary Ensemble to bring brand new works to performance. August was also found performing Shostakovich’s 3rd String Quartet at the Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival in July of 2024, marking another highlight in his extensive history of chamber music performances.