August Zillig is an adept young violist whose musical talents have brought him to performances across the globe. August is currently studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland pursuing a Masters of Music in viola performance, where he studies with Fiona Winning. He is also the current viola apprentice of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra’s mentorship scheme. With a sensitive sound and agile fingers, August was also able to claim 2nd Prize at the annual Watson Forbes Viola Competition playing Vieuxtemps Viola Sonata in B flat in November of 2025.

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.