Piano
Education
Crystal received her BM in Piano Performance from Oberlin College & Conservatory and her Artist Diploma from UMKC Conservatory. She is currently a DMA candidate in Piano Performance at the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University. She is also an alumna of the Lieven International Piano Foundation Summer School in Vienna, Austria, and she performed at the Gilmore International Piano Festival.
As a Teacher
Crystal has taught piano at Sheridan School, Chevy Chase Music, and City Strings & Piano, providing individualized instruction to students of all levels. She has mentored pre-college students from the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing and coached graduate applicants preparing for auditions at top US and UK music schools. Her teaching emphasizes technical mastery, musical interpretation, and performance confidence, guiding students toward success in competitions and conservatory admissions.
Crystal has served as a master class teacher at Southern Oregon University, the Distinguished Artist Series in Santa Cruz, and Music at Château d’Aix in France. She was a supervisor at Vienna’s International Lieven Piano Foundation, supporting young artists in master classes and concerts. Her other notable roles include Piano Accompanist at the Peabody Institute, Guest Alumni Piano Workshop Teacher at UMKC Conservatory, Rehearsal Pianist for the Oberlin Opera Theater, and Founder of the Musicians on Mission Recital Series. In 2024, she also served as a judge for the Xi’An International Music Festival and the Helan Mountain Youth Piano Competition in China. Crystal is currently the Co-Founder & CEO of KaraOrchee, a startup developing AI-driven orchestral accompaniment for musicians.
As a Performer
Crystal has performed with renowned orchestras and in celebrated venues in the US, Europe, and Asia. She has appeared as a soloist with the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra, Marshall Symphony Orchestra, and the Symphony of West Chester, among many others. In addition, she has performed solo recitals across the globe, including at the Oregon Center for the Arts, Lieven Piano Foundation Summer Concert Series in Austria, and the Wuhan Conservatory Guest Recital in China. She served as an accompanist at the UMKC Conservatory and the Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University and has appeared on radio and television broadcasts at WFMT Chicago, Jefferson Public Radio, and Red River Radio.
Teaching Philosophy
Piano learning is a well-rounded, lifelong journey—never narrow or one-dimensional. Every life experience, whether joyful or painful, contributes to the depth and authenticity of musical expression. I encourage students to build a solid technical foundation while also staying deeply connected to themselves and their emotions. The stage is the best teacher; it challenges us to discover our potential and transform practice into powerful communication. My goal is to help students grow not only as pianists but as complete artists.
At Levine
Although I’m new to the Levine community, I already value its vibrant culture of excellence, inclusion, and dedication to student growth. I’m especially inspired by the collaborative environment, where faculty and students alike share a deep commitment to artistry and education.
More About Crystal
Learn more about Crystal on her website, listen to her music, and watch her performances.