From Vancouver, Canada, countertenor Nicholas Burns has been described as possessing a “thrilling voice” that “caresses the ear with its velvet” (Opera Canada, Le Devoir). A widely sought after soloist renowned for the sophisticated blend of musicality, sensitivity, and “dramatic intensity” (Olyrix) which he brings to both the concert and opera stages, his past interpretations have been described as “revolutionary” (Opera Canada). With recent highlights including solo appearances for Les Arts Florissants, L’Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal, Tafelmusik, and Early Music Vancouver, Nicholas has quickly established himself as a singular and leading artist among North America’s top baroque interpreters. On the opera stage, Nicholas has performed numerous Handel roles, including Cesare in Giulio Cesare, Bertarido in Rodelinda, Polinesso in Ariodante, and Lichas in Hercules.
He also gave the world premiere of the opera L’Orangeraie by French composer Zad Moultaka.

He was a 2023 winner of the New York Oratorio Society competition at Carnegie Hall, as well as winning Les Jeunes Ambassadeurs Lyriques, the Vancouver International Music Competition, and Edmonton Opera’s Rumbold Vocal Prize.

For the 2024/25 season, Nicholas looks forward to his debut with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, as well as solo recitals with the Bulgarian State Opera, Opera San Miguel de Allende, and long-time partners, L’Harmonie des Saisons. 

"Nicholas Burns displays a rather lyrical countertenor tessitura, set off by very good articulations, enhanced by the clarity of his vowels and musicality. Dramatic intensity is also very much to the fore, as he distills variations of power into long phrases." - Axel Driffort, Olyrix

“And what a rare and beautiful experience it was to hear counter-tenor Nicholas Burns. His pure vocal tones evoked all the baroque splendor of Handel’s composition.”

- Michael Sobota, The Chronicle Journal

“The moving countertenor Nicholas Burns in the lead role, dominates the stage.” - Emmanuel Bernier, La Presse+

“The voice of the countertenor Nicholas Burns caressed the ear with its velvet.” - Odile Tremblay, Le Devoir

“Nicholas Burns took on the lead role of King Bertarido with impeccable vocals and an enthralling stage presence.” - Carly Gordon, The McGill Daily