Michael Skarke

Michael Skarke, praised for his “exquisite, almost ethereal tone quality,” (Vocal Arts Chicago) and “strong dramatic presence,” (San Diego Story) is quickly making a name for himself as one of America’s up-and-coming countertenors. His professional experience blends operatic, choral, and concert singing, including performances as Endimione in Opera NEO’s production of Cavalli’s La Calisto, Corindo in Haymarket Opera’s summer production of Cesti’s L’Orontea, and as a guest artist with the South Dakota based professional vocal ensemble, Transept. Most recently, Michael was named a National Finalist in the Music Teacher’s National Association Competition, and was awarded a position in the 2019-2020 VOCES8 Scholars Program. Michael will complete his Masters in vocal performance at Baylor University in May of 2020. During his time in Waco, Michael has performed the role of Filotete in Händel’s Oreste, as well as performed as the alto soloist in Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms, J.S. Bach’s Jesu Meine Freude and Wir Danken Dir, Britten’s Rejoice of the Lamb, and Frank Ticheli’s Angels in the Architecture. Michael’s 2019-2020 season includes the roles of Nerone in Monteverdi’s L’incoronazione di Poppea, and Orfeo in Gluck’s Orfeo ed Euridice with Baylor Opera Theatre, Ixion in Charpentier’s Orphée with American Baroque Opera Company, and culminates with the role of Ottone in Haymarket Opera Theater’s production of L’incoronazione di Poppea in Chicago, as well as directing his own professional consort TenebrOSO in Waco. When not performing, you can catch Michael playing basketball, or spending time with his wife Jenny.

Don’t miss Michael in L’incoronazione di Poppea - Get your tickets now!