Crystal has a bachelor’s degree in Music Education, with emphasis in piano and choral music, from Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC. While a student at Winthrop, she studied Piano Pedagogy and began teaching lessons through the university student lesson program. Before joining the Academy of Music in 2019, Crystal taught private lessons and directed both middle and high school choir programs. Locally she sings with the Symphonicity Chorus and the Virginia Beach Chorale where she has served as a section leader, board member and is currently the Small Ensemble Director. She is an active member of the Tidewater Music Teachers Forum where she has previously served as treasurer and board member, and continues her education through workshops and conferences.