All About CVQ
The Crystal Valley Quartet was formed in 2003 with two purposes in mind;
to reach the lost with the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and help
them to find salvation and to encourage and edify the Church with traditional
southern gospel four part harmony, personal testimony, and sharing of the
Word of God. We believe that Jesus is the one and only son of God, that he
died on a cross taking on Himself the sin of all mankind, was buried and on
the third day rose from the dead opening up Heaven for all who believe on
Him. We believe that God sent His Holy Spirit to comfort us, reveal God's
will in our lives, and give us power to be effective witnesses for God. We
represent no denomination because Christianity is not a religion, but a
relationship with God through Christ Jesus. We will continue to spread His
message until he returns in all glory!
John Shields-Lead
Singing lead for The Crystal Valley Quartet is John Shields. John joins the CVQ from Brazil, Indiana. John brings nearly 26 years of singing experience to the table. As a youth, he toured for 6 years in a traveling choir. In his adult life, John has toured for 12 years as a soloist, and the last 8 years as lead vocalist for 3 Southern Gospel Quartets. In his spare time John loves to hike and canoe with his family, which is quite substantial, as he has 4 teenage children (prayers are welcomed). In the quiet times John enjoys relaxing with his wife Janie, the love of his life, and maybe taking a slow walk in the park. John loves Jesus with all of his heart and considers serving Him in this ministry to be both and honor and a privilege. "Most people never get to live their dream, but every weekend I do" says CVQ's lead, and I think you'll get a feel for that enthusiasm when you come to a Crystal Valley concert.
Tony Hamilton-Tenor
Tony Hamilton joined the Crystal Valley Quartet in February of 2006. He left for a couple years to spend more time with his family and is now singing again. He is from Robinson Illinois, and lives there with wife Michelle and children Gabe and Taylor. Tony has a great high range and his harmony is as smooth as they come. He may be the quiet one on stage, but look out when he lets go with those high notes. Tony enjoys singing and listening to southern gospel. He also enjoys watching auto racing and football, but really enjoys spending his free time with his family. Tony has always dreamed about being on stage singing to many people through out the area, but a few years back he never thought that he would be in the southern gospel singing business, and meeting all the people that he has met, and he is looking forward meeting you. Tony has a great love for the Lord, and wants to sing for the Lord any chance that he can get. He has made this his ministry, and gives it everything he has.
Earl Michels-Bass
Earl is a fantastic bass singer that hails from Marshall, IL. Earl has been the bass for the Damascus Road Quartet, and has been singing Southern Gospel music for over 25 years. When he is not singing, Mr. Michels spends a great deal of time operating his own business in Terre Haute, IN. In his private time Earl enjoys spending time with his lovely wife of 30 years- Joyce, and their 3 adult children. Earl is without a doubt the best bass singer with which we have worked, and takes the CVQ to a whole new level of quality, excitement and ministry.
Jake Michels-Baritone
Our new baritone has been a long time coming, and is the son of long-time Bass vocalist Earl Michels. The younger Michels demonstrates extremely smooth vocals and adds an excitement, energy, and stage presence that is opening the door to a whole new generation of southern gospel music fans. He is a graduate of Indiana State University's Aviation Program, and possesses a Commercial Pilot License- Lear Jet here we come! Jake grew up, as his father, surrounded by gospel quartet music. You are sure to be blessed by this young man's talent as well as his testimony for Christ. Please welcome Jake Michels to the family when we are in your area.
Ken Smith-Piano
Ken Smith is the newest member of CVQ. His experience on the piano and love for God is wonderful addition to the quartet. Ken is all the way from Danville, IL. He enjoys spending time with his wife and grown children in his free time. Come on out and see his amazing talent!
