Frances Verity Higgs

Born in Bristol, Frances started the viola at age 11 under the professorship of Richard Crabtree. She continued her studying at Trinity College of Music, supported with awards from the Worshipful Company of Musicians and full scholarships, under the tutelage of international soloist, Rivka Golani. As well as a busy freelance career focusing in opera and ballet, she has given concerts in Dubai, France, Italy, China and India, whilst future concerts will see her travelling to perform in Zimbabwe and Scandinavia. In demand as a contemporary artist, she works with composers in new works and cross-arts disciplines, including premieres of Oliver Kentish's work, Prelude and Fugue for 10 Violas, at the Southbank Centre; and collaborating on a work for solo viola and dancers at Mobility of the Line exhibition. Frances is a founder member of the Stretto Quartet, who are currently preparing to undertake a UK tour of recitals. She is also a guest artist with the Taliesin Quartet, Cambrian Quartet and Armartis Ensemble. Her work has also lead to recording BBC documentary music, Indian film scores, playing at rock festivals, and recording on albums for various singers and bands. Frances plays on a viola made for her in 2002 by the luthier, David Milward.