Olivia Insani Perske

Olivia Insani Perske is a singer, born and raised in West Virginia. Olivia studied classical voice in her undergraduate degree, and prepared for a career as an opera singer. Graduating in 2020, the world had other plans and priorities shifted. This shift led to her move to Elkins, WV, home of the internationally acclaimed Augusta Heritage Center. The string band culture of Elkins and the discovery of Appalachian ballad singing completely changed the trajectory of Olivia’s musical career. Olivia founded and continues to direct Voices of Augusta Children’s Choir, and a monthly Community Sing through Augusta. Community music making is the heart of Olivia’s recent musical endeavors.

Olivia’s music is tied to the Appalachian Old-Time and Folk Music traditions. You can hear Olivia with her 4 piece band, “Rhodogrove”, as the Old-Time duo “Clara & Olivia” with Rochester-based fiddler Clara Riedlinger, or with multi-genre duo “Rio Ventana”, featuring Ben Quarles. Olivia draws inspiration from nature, spirituality, and conversations with good friends. Her arrangements bring old songs into the new age; she believes that some traditions are too special to fade away.