Rising Stars: Meet Aria Stiles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aria Stiles.

Hi Aria, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up in a piano teacher’s household, it was part of our homeschool day to practice our instruments.

By the time I graduated high school, I had competed in numerous fiddle competitions, and talent shows and was headed off to Belmont University. During my sophomore year, I was hired by Pam Tillis as her fiddle player, background vocalist, and mandolin player.

For 7 more years, I toured the country and Canada. Along with Pam, I played with other country artists such as Lorrie Morgan, Mark Shultz, Ricky Skaggs, Jill Miller, Michael W. Smith, Patti LaBelle, and Kathy Mattea.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not and we would never want it to be. The hard experiences show you how to grow. They push you to change, and they help you see that your inner circle and family are truly those who care for you.

I’ve learned that in the most recent months that family is such a beautiful thing

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Fiddle player. Improv. Showy. Performance. Entertainer.

One of my memorable compliments from my boss is when a guitar player didn’t do his homework for a Pam Tillis show and I ended up playing his lead lines. My boss told me that he knew that day that I would have what it took in this industry because I did more than what was expected.

It was a great compliment that only some would notice and it pushed me to continue doing and excelling.

What’s next?
I have two kids now. The family has become the #1 priority.

I have witnessed how touring can ruin families and I will not let my career be put in front of my kids and husband. My dream is to be with artists who value family as much as I do and would allow kids to be on tour from time to time

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @Ariastilesfiddle
• Youtube: Aria Stiles Fiddle

Image Credits
Steve Austell Photography