Cris Walker (formerly Christa Durand) is a dedicated music educator, vocal coach, and performing artist. She and her husband, Evan Bowers, own Music to My Ears, with locations in Cotati and Sebastopol. Since taking over the school in 2019, they have worked to maintain its welcoming and inclusive environment while expanding programs in voice, piano, and musical theater education. Their schools provide private lessons, group classes, and full-scale productions, giving students of all levels the opportunity to grow as musicians and performers. (mtmeArts.com, SebastopolTheater.com)
As an instructor, Cris specializes in voice, piano, and theater arts, tailoring lessons to students of all ages and skill levels. She teaches a wide range of vocal styles, including classical, opera, pop, rock, jazz, and musical theater, helping students develop healthy and versatile singing techniques. Her piano instruction includes Suzuki-style training and adaptive teaching for students with different learning needs. Cris believes music education should be engaging, supportive, and meaningful, fostering confidence and joy in her students.
A Sonoma State University alumna with a degree in music, Cris has performed in numerous concerts and productions throughout the Bay Area and beyond. Some of her favorite stage roles include Rosalinda in Die Fledermaus, Annio in
La Clemenza di Tito, and "Mother" in Amahl and the Night Visitors. She brings her extensive performance experience into her teaching, helping students develop stage presence and artistic expression.
Cris is also committed to increasing access to music education. She co-founded
​Up Street Music Patrons, a nonprofit that provides scholarships and subsidized music and theater programs for underserved students in Sonoma County. (UpStreetMusic.org) She regularly directs and produces musical theater productions, creating an encouraging space for students to explore performance, whether they are beginners or experienced performers.
Above all, Cris is passionate about helping students discover their voices, build confidence, and experience the joy of making music.