
Meet The Founder
Houston "Carver" Mathis

Carver Mathis is a Houston-based vocalist, director, and educator recognized for his holistic approach to artistry and vocal performance. Some of his stage credits include Parade, A Chorus Line, Seussical, Once on This Island, A Concert Version of Porgy and Bess, and the touring production of Neil Berg’s Phantoms of the Opera (2012).
He has performed at Carnegie Hall as section leader for a Dan Forrest premiere with Manhattan Concert Productions, made his debut at Lincoln Center, and sung major oratorio works at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans. Carver regularly performs in New York City during the holiday season and has taught Vocal Lyricism on Broadway, guiding emerging professionals toward authentic emotional connection through song.
Throughout his career, Carver has been called upon to adjudicate numerous vocal competitions and has presented multiple solo concerts that showcase his dynamic range and interpretive depth. His dedication to community and social impact extends to his recording work, which includes two projects supporting Covenant House — a Broadway EP entitled There Will Be a Miracle and a Christmas EP titled Being Alive.
As the founder of The Singer Sanctuary HTX, Carver is devoted to fostering community-centered artistry and empowering singers through mind, body, and spirit connection.
“Artists need space not just to create, but to breathe. The Singer Sanctuary was born from that need.” — Carver Mathis
What is working with Carver like?
"Carver is a masterful voice teacher whose methods are rooted in clarity, empathy, and artistry. As a student, I was struck by his ituitive approach to teaching- he tailors each session with care, grounding technical training in a way that feels both attainable and empowering. He listens intently, offers targeted guidance, and creates a space where vulnerability and risk-taking feel not only welcomed but celebrated. His oft-repeated reminder that "singing should feel like speaking" continues to echo in my mind as both a practical tool and metaphor for honest storytelling."
— Drahnier Schmidt
"It is believed that man is born of body, soul, and spirit. Carver has a way of incorporating these three into creating a character that transcends the bounds of what's etched into the sheet music. Not only that, he also unlocks the character and integrity in his students. He has a way of seeing the inside of your soul..."
— Samuel Jones
"I began working with Carver in preparation for an important audition with The Houston Grand Opera; a goal that felt out of reach at the time. Carver gave me his full attention, whether virtually or in person, and helped me build a solid foundation that went beyond just technique...
Thanks to Carver's dedication, support, and belief in me, I not only felt confident and capable, I booked the job...
I credit much of that success to Carver's inspiring instruction and unwavering encouragement. He is more than a singing instructor; he is a mentor, motivator, and someone who brings out the very best in those he teaches."
-Omar Caraballo
"...Before working with Carver, I carried deep-seated doubts and insecurities stemming from less-than-encouraging experiences with voice instructors during college. Those encounters left me feeling disheartened, and I stepped away from vocal training for years. It wasn't until I met Carver that I felt safe enough to return to the vulnerable space of vocal work. His calm, affirming presence created a space where I could explore and embrace my voice again..."
— Lauren Robinson
"Carver is, without a doubt, one of the finest music directors I've ever worked with...
He has a remarkable talent for helping performers access vocal techniques and emotional depth they didn't know they had. His focus on healthy vocal production, body awareness, and storytelling enhances every aspect of a performance...
His ability to adapt his teaching to suit various experience levels while maintaining high standards is exceptional."
— Lauren Mulacek
"...Carver is not just a voice teacher--he is a vocal mentor who genuinely cares about helping each student find their most authentic voice. One of the most remarkable things about his teaching is how he focuses not only on technical excellence but also on each individual's emotional connection to the song itself. In every lesson, he guides us to understand the meaning behind a song and supports us in expressing that meaning clearly and powerfully in our performance..."
--Jeandell Arcilla
"...What sets Mr. Mathis apart is his genuine passion for music and his belief in his students' potential. He celebrates our wins, however small, and helps us stay motivated when we hit tough spots. He has not only helped me grow as a vocalist but also as a performer and person..."
— Vaishnavi Renduchintala
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