Kristyn Van Cleave

Biography

Dr. Kristyn Van Cleave, a proud native of the vibrant California Bay Area, earned her Doctorate of Musical Arts in Collaborative Piano and Pedagogy from Louisiana State University and a Master of Music in Collaborative Piano from New York University.

At LSU, Kristyn excelled as a graduate assistant, serving as a versatile pianist and vocal coach, accompanying a variety of musical and educational activities for both undergraduate and graduate students. She served as the Assistant Music Director and rehearsal pianist for Sondheim’s, “A Little Night Music”, and music director and pianist for Adam Gwon’s “Ordinary Days”.

At NYU, she made significant contributions as the assistant music director and pianist for student cabaret showcases at 54 Below, as well as Mozart’s opera “The Magic Flute”. Kristyn also served as an adjunct faculty member, teaching Keyboard Skills and private piano lessons, and working as a dedicated staff accompanist for the Vocal Performance department.

With over 15 years of teaching experience, Kristyn has passionately nurtured young musicians through her private piano studio, where up to 40 students have achieved prestigious accolades in the Royal Conservatory Music Development program and regional awards through the Music Teachers Association of California’s Certificate of Merit. In San Jose, California, she imparted her expertise in general music to elementary students and spent three fulfilling years teaching music and musical theatre at a private high school. Kristyn has a particular fondness for engaging with junior high and high school students, finding immense joy in fostering meaningful connections and encouraging their musical growth in a supportive and inspiring environment.