Fostering Musical Growth and New Friendships through Vocal Community
Welcome to Crystal Vocal Arts!
Let's experience the magic of music together!
Crystal Vocal Arts is the newest vocal music school in the Central Maryland area, and we're thrilled to welcome you to our community. Our primary goal is to create impactful, meaningful music at a high level, all while fostering a safe and kind environment. What better way to do that than through a cappella?
Join us this Spring for our season - let's create something truly special together!
About the Director
Michael Brisentine,
MM, Choral Conducting, University of Kentucky
BME, Music Education and BM, Vocal Performance, UMD College Park
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Music Director of UMD's Faux Paz
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Multiple International Championship for Collegiate A Cappella (ICCA) Final placements
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Multiple Contemporary A Cappella Recording Award (CARA) wins and nominations
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Founder of Chesapeake High School's Evolve
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Finals placement at the ICHSA
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Multiple CARA nominations for their two albums, Spark and 2019 (Live)
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Founder of Severna Park High School's Sol
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Coached to a Semifinal Placement at ICHSA
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Musical Director of many theatre productions, including Addams Family, Bye Bye Birdie, Freaky Friday, and Rock N' Roll Revival
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Prioritizes the music-making process at the highest level while still focusing on and encouraging the individual growth of each singer in their ensembles
Dr. J.D. Frizzell,
OneVoice Director
"Michael is one of the most energetic, knowledgeable, and effective directors in the contemporary a cappella field. Their passion for musical excellence combined with their commitment to building the whole person enables them to make a lasting impact on each student lucky enough to work with them."
Lynique Webster,
Nomadic Founder,
Faux Paz Alumnus,
"It was because of Michael that I considered joining a collegiate a cappella group and I'm so grateful I did! I became a better soloist, ensemble member, educator, musician, and human being after singing with Faux Paz. Michael's infectious energy, stellar musicianship, and trsutworthy leadership has proven to be exceptional and award-winning! So I have no doubt the Crystal Vocal Arts Experience will be a unique and memorable one for all who participate. Do not hesitate to sign up, you will not regret it!"
Ben Boutell,
Radius Founder
"Michael single-handedly turned around my collegiate a cappella group in just one semester. The energy and creativity they bring to each interaction is truly inspirational. Personally, I learned so much during my time knowing them. I couldn't recommend Michael enough."
Lia Bagley,
Evolve Alumnus
"Michael is an attentive educator who nurtures and expands upon your passion for music. While learning from them, my musicality improved week after week, as well as the confidence I had in myself and my abilities, due to Michael giving me the support and room to grow through any mistakes, and guidance to constantly learn from them."
Gianna Dicks,
Sol Alumnus, Musical Theatre Major at University of Miami
"Michael is one of the best vocal teachers I have ever worked with. I picked up vocal warmups, vocal health tips, music theory and sight reading skills, the science of harmonies, a cappella choreography... Those skills are applicable to other forms of music. I use skills I got from Michael every single day in my classes as an MT Major. They radiate positivity, and I don't think I would be the person I am today if not for Michael."
Valerie Casey,
Evolve Alumnus
Berklee Graduate, Professional Songwriter
"Michael has a one in a million talent for ensuring that their students reach their highest potential and then some, with dedication, pride, and lots of laughs! Having them as an educator is truly a once in a lifetime experience that you will treasure forever!"