Hidden Gems: Meet Crystal Santisteban of CRS Vocal Studio

Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Santisteban.

Hi Crystal, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was raised in a low-income household where access to formal music education was limited. My mother had four children by the age of nineteen, and while resources were scarce, my love for music was constant.

An early and pivotal influence was my math teacher, Mrs. Etoyle, who recognized my potential and invited me to sing in her gospel choir in Compton. That experience immersed me in the discipline, community, and emotional depth of gospel music, shaping my musical foundation. In later years, I was given an extraordinary gift when Kathy Kelly and my first voice teacher, Joy Cooke, arranged for me to receive voice lessons twice a week at no cost. At the time, Ms. Cooke was courageously battling cancer, yet she continued to teach with unwavering generosity and commitment. Her dedication left a lasting impression on both my artistry and character.

As my career developed, I had the privilege of studying with and being mentored by distinguished artists and educators, including Patricia Prunty, Crystal Barron, Nadine Sierra, Amber Mogg, Sarah Loera, and Ingela Onstad. Their guidance extended beyond vocal technique to include professional development and business mentorship—areas in which I had no prior exposure. Their support affirmed a truth I carry with me today: meaningful success is built through community.

I am now grateful to work in a studio environment that aligns deeply with my values and vision. As a vocal coach, I serve individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them cultivate freedom and confidence in their voices through a holistic approach that integrates technique, artistry, and mindset. Teaching has become both a calling and a continual source of inspiration. Through my students, I am reminded daily of the power of music to foster connection, resilience, and shared humanity.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
A lot of times I felt alone knowing how I was gonna make this happen. There were many struggles along the way. I decided I was gonna make my bedroom a vocal coach studio and that’s when I started to build my clientele. And it was growingso much the owner of the apartment said be careful you might be getting some complaints. But yeah I didn’t have a room or a bed for a bit. I also didn’t come from money and learning about money. But somehow it all worked out now, one of my students Ximena told me there was a room studio opening up in brea. I had no idea how I was gonna make ends meet or how I was gonna uphold this business myself. But little tender mercy’s came along the way. I recieved scholarships from a non profit program cielo to help business owners. David an incredible Giitar teacher teaching over 15 years was able to join me in the studio. I never thought this would be my life and that it would all work out I just took the risks.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I’m a Vocal Holistic Coach, I teach others about Technique, Artistry, and Mindset work. I can teach all the technique in the world but without getting under the hood and having them see what’s mentally blocking them from freeing their sound, it’s gonn be hard to trust yourself to be confident. But ultimately I listen and cater to each persons need. Everyone is on a dofferent vocal journey and we make goals and plans together to meet those needs. Some I focus more on artistry others they first need to focus on foundational techniques. Most of all we have fun! Learning is best when you’re free, yourself and having a great time! I also love the community that’s been built. Each student gets the opportunity to meet others their age and sing with them. There’s been a sense of family and community here

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Compassion, loving each person for who they are. Acceptance. It’s huge here

Contact Info:

• Website: https://crsvocalstudio.com/
• Instagram: Crystaltralala