Early Life and Education
Sharon Azrieli was born in Montreal, Quebec, to David Azrieli, a renowned architect and Holocaust survivor. She moved to New York City after attending Vassar College, where she earned a degree in Art History. She furthered her studies at the Parsons School of Design, obtaining an Associate Degree in Illustration. Azrieli also studied vocal performance at the Juilliard School and obtained a Diploma. She holds a Master of Music degree and a Doctorate in Music from the Université de Montréal.
Rise to Success
Azrieli's musical career took off with the support of the Canadian Opera Company's artistic director, Richard Bradshaw, who recognized her talent and helped advance her professional opera career. She has performed leading roles in numerous operas and at major festivals. Her talent has taken her to prestigious festivals like the Brott Music Festival and Festival Sefarad.
Key Business Strategies
Azrieli is an heir to the Azrieli Group real estate fortune. As one of three daughters of the late David Azrieli, she co-inherits and co-controls approximately 46% of the publicly traded Azrieli Group alongside her sisters Naomi and Danna. Azrieli is also on the board of the family's Azrieli Foundation, which supports a number of causes, including science, music and Holocaust education.
Philanthropy
Azrieli is dedicated to arts education and philanthropy. She created the Azrieli Music Prizes for the Azrieli Foundation in 2014, which promotes new Jewish and Canadian music. She serves on the boards of several philanthropic organizations, including the National Arts Centre, McCord Museum, and the Canadian Vocal Arts Institute.