Staff Categories
Instruments
Locations
Voice, Piano, and Young Child Music
Education and awards:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music, Ball State University, concentration in Musical Theater
- Teacher of the Year Award — IPLAY Music School
- Irene Ryan Award -— Kennedy Center
- Musical Theatre Scholarship — Ball State Department of Theatre and Dance
- Talent Show Scholarship — Ball State University Department of Music
Notable roles/performance experience:
- On tour with The Lion King as a swing for seven ensemble roles and two lead roles
- Singing backup for Sutton Foster in Indianapolis during college
- Music director for a show that included some of her original music
With a background in church gospel and R&B, Krystal has always had a passion for music. From a young age, she was also inspired by musicals. She was encouraged by her drama teacher to get her BFA at Ball State University with a concentration in Musical Theatre. When summer came around, she would often perform at Kings Island for the theme park theatre shows.
During her senior year of college, Broadway star Sutton Foster worked closely with Krystal’s class to help them put on a cabaret at Joe’s Pub in New York City. Since that time, she has been a part of several reputable shows across the country. Her professional career started as a performer at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and an instructor at School of Rock. While doing shows in Chicago, she also became lead singer of the band “Live Debate.” They did gigs in downtown Chicago like at the Hideout and the House Theatre. Eventually, she moved on to perform on tour with the musical, The Lion King. During rehearsals, she had the privilege of working with lyricist/composer Lebo M.
Krystal started out teaching voice only, which she did independently for five years. Upon moving to the South, she started teaching piano as well, at the beginner and intermediate levels.
“I am the type of teacher that makes sure to connect with the students,” she shares. “I feel it’s important to cater to each student’s learning abilities by learning about them first. Not only does it make the student feel more comfortable, but it also makes the lessons more productive. I also make sure my students have a practice guide to ensure they are putting in the work to see progress.”
“I make my lessons fun by playing music educational games or flash cards for the young ones,” Krystal describes. “Music can be hard and frustrating, so it is important to me to do things that keep the student engaged and interested.”
“Remember that you are unique and powerful!” Krystal advises her students. “Let go of what you can’t control and practice to progress not to be perfect!”
In her spare time., Krystal loves writing. She also loves to rollerblade and dance. “Something interesting about my life is that I was able to travel the country doing what I love (Lion King) for a living!”