Heloise Degrugillier

European Foundations & Master Studies

Born in France, Heloise Degrugillier began her musical journey on the recorder at age five. Her formal training took root at the Conservatoire National de Région de Lille, where she studied under Dominic Vasseur and was awarded the Médaille d’Or in 1999. Following her success in France, she moved to the Netherlands to immerse herself in the renowned Dutch early music tradition at the Hogeschool voor de Kunsten Utrecht (HKU). Under the tutelage of Heiko ter Schegget and Saskia Coolen, she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Her European training was further enriched by a specialized residency from 2002–2003 at the ESMUC (Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya) in Barcelona, where she studied with Pedro Memelsdorff, deepening her mastery of medieval and Renaissance performance practice.

Holistic Artistry & Expansion

In 2005, Heloise relocated to the United States, marking a significant evolution in her artistry. Seeking to bridge the gap between physical awareness and musical expression, she studied the Alexander Technique at the Alexander Technique Training Center (ATTC) with Ruth Kilroy, graduating in 2008. This expertise is now a cornerstone of her pedagogical and performance philosophy, emphasizing ease of movement and mindful presence. In 2012, Heloise further expanded her historical performance palette by adding the baroque flute to her professional repertoire, offering a versatile range of woodwind colors to her collaborative projects.

Performance And Collaborative Artistry

Heloise is a distinguished presence on the American early music stage, recognized for her technical precision and expressive depth. In 2024, she became a member of the acclaimed Renaissance wind band Piffaro, where she has embraced the ensemble’s multi-instrumental tradition—expanding her repertoire to include bagpipes, drums, and krumhorns. In 2025, she also joined New England Baroque. Her collaborative career includes performances and recordings with many of the most prestigious historical performance ensembles in the country, including The Boston Camerata, Handel and Haydn Society, and Tempesta di Mare.

Academic Faculty & Pedagogy

A dedicated and sought-after educator, Heloise serves on the faculty at Tufts University and Rhode Island College (RIC). She also maintains a thriving private studio in Arlington, MA, where she mentors students of all levels. Her pedagogical insights are a staple at premier workshops across the United States; she is a frequent faculty member at Amherst Early Music, Pinewoods, The Texas Toot, and the SFEMS Recorder Workshop. Whether leading a collegiate masterclass or a summer intensive, Heloise is committed to a holistic approach that balances historical rigor with the physical well-being and creative growth of the player.