Olivia Schurke

Olivia Schurke is a mezzo-soprano based in Boston, where she recently earned her Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance at Boston University. During her studies, Olivia performed a range of operatic roles with the Boston University Opera Institute, most notably Bradamante in Handel’s Alcina, Meg in Little Women and Dorabella in Così fan tutte. She made her Symphony Hall debut as mezzo soloist for James Stephensen’s Symphony No. 2 with the Boston University Wind Ensemble in April 2023. Most recently she put on Vaterliebe, a chamber recital at First Lutheran Church of Boston which featured music by German composers spanning three centuries.

Well-versed in and as equally passionate about contemporary opera, Olivia has performed many roles in this repertoire. She has portrayed many roles in modern works, such as covering Johnna in Boston Opera Collaborative’s Naomi in the Living Room, and performing as Isabel in La hija de Rappaccini and the Taller Daughter in Missy Mazzoli’s Proving Up with the Boston University Opera Institute.

Olivia’s musical journey began at the age of three, when she first picked up the violin, which became her primary instrument until college. She continued her violin studies at St. Olaf College, performing with the St. Olaf Philharmonia Orchestra, before transitioning fully to voice. Her broad musical background informs and enriches her vocal artistry, making her a dynamic and multifaceted performer.