Olivia Spyrou

About

Olivia Spyrou, a dynamic young musician from Melbourne, currently studies a Bachelor of Music on violin and viola at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University (QCGU). They have been under the tutelage of Associate Professor Michele Walsh for 2 years, and their previous mentors include Jane-Marie Stuart, Monica Naselow, Beth Hemming, Wenhong Luo and Gabrielle Halloran.

In 2024, at QCGU, Olivia was awarded the FW and EG Harmer Memorial Scholarship, the John Curro Viola Prize and the Ross Peters 4MBS Chamber Music Prize.

As a dedicated chamber musician, Olivia has explored various collaborations on both violin and viola, including with the LA Philharmionic Wind Quintet, EnsembleQ at QCGU and with the ACO Academy (2019, 2020). Throughout their studies, Olivia has participated in various masterclasses, including with Caroline Henbest (ANAM) and Matthew Jones (Viola Professor, Guildhall School of Music).

Olivia’s orchestral journey began with the Melbourne Youth Orchestra in 2014. Following many years with MYO, Olivia auditioned and participated in their first AYO National Music Camp in 2019 at 14 years old. This year marks Olivia’s 6th National Music Camp and 2nd year as principal Viola of the Bishop Orchestra. Olivia has eagerly participated every year since and cherished their time with AYO’s Young Symphonists (2022) and various Seasons programs over the years (2022-2025). Olivia has always found connecting and learning with like-minded people, musicians, tutors, and conductors across Australia to be a great source of joy and fulfilment. “AYO is where my passion began. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. I am so grateful to be a part of the AYO again in 2025.”

Photographer: Claudio Raschella