New Students
“Michaela is absolutely phenomenal!!! I started lessons after singing in Charis for a year to learn more about vocal techniques and even after only 3 lessons I can already tell a difference! I have a background in music from playing in band for 10 years but no choir and I was very nervous for my first one but Michaela made it as comfortable as possible and was incredibly encouraging! She clearly knows her stuff and is able to teach in a way that makes sense and explains techniques and concepts in different ways to match students where they’re at, even if it’s untraditional. Genuinely cannot recommend enough and can’t wait to continue lessons!”
— Jacqueline Miller, 2026
“Michaela Cruse is in an incredible teacher! No matter your level of singing, she can listen to your voice and create beautiful music! She can make you a basic level singer into an incredible singer! She is kind, incredibly gifted, patient, and an absolute icon to work with! I highly recommend taking singing lessons from Michaela, you will not regret it!”
— Amy Huffman, 2026
From the Parents
“Michaela Cruse is an exceptional voice teacher. My 8 year old daughter who has been her student for the past 9 months absolutely adores her. Michaela builds her confidence as a singer in the most caring, gentle and nurturing way. Michaela is very knowledgeable as a voice/music instructor. We have noticed a big difference since our daughter started taking her classes. Michaela is very kind, patient, fun and a talented singer in her own right. She readily works on songs with my daughter that she has never heard before. She has had an enormous positive impact on our daughter’s life during the pandemic and the challenges it brought. I highly recommend Michaela!”
— Anna Yu, 2024
What the kids are saying…
“Michaela, Michaela, Michaela. Where do I even begin? Her lessons have honestly changed my life in so many ways. Whether it’s in a proper classroom or her home, she empowers everyone around her, insuring that her students feel safe and loved. Not only is she a wonderful person, she’s an amazing teacher as well. Before Michaela, I never clicked with a teacher, no one ever adjusted to fit MY learning style. She does that. She is patient, considerate, and always reminds you that mistakes are okay, and NEVER pressures you at all. In short, if you’re looking for a teacher, no doubt, pick Michaela Cruse.”
– Llilla Raines (8th Grade)
“I love taking voice lessons with Michaela! At the end of each lesson, I’m always looking forward to our next one. Michaela is a great voice teacher because she knows how to help me improve and she always gives me feedback. I’d totally recommend her.
– Grace Cockrill (7th Grade)
“Michaela is literally the best! She gives great feedback. She always has a cool vibe and you will always have a great time with her. Plus she has great connections with everybody! She is just amazing!”
– Willa Decker (8th Grade)
charis members
“If you've ever considered doing this for yourself, this human right here is the BEST! 1,000,000,000/10 recommend! They meet you where you are ability wise with no judgements and makes learning fun, easy, and relaxed. I can't say enough about this amazing human and their abilities to teach and inspire!! Do the thing, you won't regret it!!”
— Angela Callahan, 2026
“If you are looking to join a choir or get into music somehow someway, if Michaela is attached, it's the way to go. She leads Charis Chorus and is offering private lessons.
Her technique of teaching is so simple, our non-audition choir sounds like top tier competition. Unlike other instructors, who will either yell at you or tell you you’re doing it wrong at least, Michaela will approach with positive reinforcement and confidence, along with telling you are loved. She's also very big into grounding and finding your center, which is sooo important. She gave me a light and taught me how to grow that flame, I still struggle from time to time but because of her, I light brighter since last year in August at my lowest. Michaela, thank you for loving me as I am. If y'all need a lesson or a door into music, do what I did and walk into a door that's welcoming and fulfilling.”
— Doni Callahan, 2026
