Amy Hillis is a distinguished Canadian violinist, educator, and arts advocate whose talent and vision have earned her international acclaim. Hailing from Regina, Saskatchewan, Hillis has crafted a career that seamlessly blends traditional classical repertoire with bold contemporary innovations, captivating audiences across Canada and beyond.
A Musical Journey Rooted in Saskatchewan
Amy’s passion for the violin began early in her hometown, where her talent quickly set her apart. She pursued higher education at McGill University’s Schulich School of Music, where she earned her Doctor of Music degree. This academic achievement became the foundation of a multifaceted career in both performance and education.
A Celebrated Performance Career
Hillis is celebrated for her rich, expressive tone and commanding stage presence. Her debut album, Roots, highlights her unique ability to pair Canadian compositions with classical staples. She has commissioned original works from leading Canadian composers like Matt Brubeck, Fjóla Evans, and Nicole Lizée—contributions that have pushed the boundaries of the modern violin repertoire.
Her performance resume includes extensive solo and chamber appearances across Canada and internationally. A major milestone in her career came in 2018 when she won the Eckhardt-Gramatté National Music Competition, a prestigious award that underscored her excellence in contemporary music interpretation.
Dynamic Collaborations and Ensembles
Amy Hillis is one-half of the acclaimed duo meagan&amy, a collaborative project with pianist Meagan Milatz. The duo’s Pan-Canadian Recital Tour brought innovative classical music programming to communities nationwide, gaining widespread recognition for their fearless artistry.
She also co-founded the Horizon String Quartet, a prairie-based ensemble dedicated to music education. With over 200 interactive concerts across 100 cities, Hillis and her group have introduced more than 10,000 young Canadians to classical music.
A Passionate Music Educator
Beyond the stage, Amy is committed to teaching the next generation of musicians. She has taught at McGill University and currently serves as Assistant Professor of Music at York University’s School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design. Her work emphasizes accessibility and community engagement in music education.
An Ongoing Musical Mission
Now based in Montreal, Amy Hillis continues to champion musical innovation and education. She performs on a rare 1902 Enrico Rocca violin, generously loaned by the Canada Council for the Arts Musical Instrument Bank.
To stay updated on Amy Hillis’s latest projects, performances, and releases, visit her official website: www.amyhillis.com.
Published by New York Star Magazine
0 Comments