Zachary J. McCulley is a Wyoming native, singer, pianist, music director, and vocal pedagogue specializing in crossover training across Musical Theatre, Contemporary Commercial Music (CCM), and classical vocal styles. He currently serves as Professor of Musical Theatre Voice at the University of Wyoming, where he teaches private voice and a range of musical theatre courses, including group singing, styles, history, music theory, and acting for the singer. In addition, ZJM Vocal Studio offers training for pre-college and professional singers, along with individualized teacher development for those new to studio teaching as well as experienced voice teachers seeking to expand beyond their primary genres.

Recognized for his work bridging historic and contemporary approaches to vocal pedagogy, McCulley’s teaching emphasizes sustainable technique, artistic authenticity, and the expressive power of storytelling through song. Drawing from evidence-based voice science alongside a deep commitment to performance, he guides students toward vocal flexibility, freedom, and confidence across genres. At the heart of his work is the belief that music-making should be rooted in curiosity, generosity, joy, and a celebration of the human voice.

McCulley holds a Master of Music in Vocal Arts with advanced studies in Vocology from the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music, as well as a Performer’s Certificate and Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music. He has completed all three levels of the Contemporary Commercial Music Institute at Shenandoah Conservatory, Tom Burke’s Twang Farm, Broadway Vox Musical Theatre Voice Pedagogy, Meisner in Music Teacher Certification, and additional continuing education in voice and performance pedagogy.

As a music director, vocal director, and rehearsal pianist, McCulley has led productions including Bright Star, Next to Normal, Into the Woods, Carrie, Elf the Musical, The Secret Garden, and The Drowsy Chaperone. His artistic work is grounded in collaboration and a commitment to rehearsal environments where performers are encouraged to take risks, grow artistically, and deepen their connection to story and song.

Beyond the classroom and rehearsal hall, McCulley is active in arts advocacy and educational leadership. Through his work with the Wyoming State Thespian Festival, he helps coordinate statewide workshops, adjudication, and large-scale programming that connects students and educators with theatre professionals from across the country. He is passionate about expanding access to meaningful arts experiences and fostering communities where creativity, mentorship, and artistic excellence can thrive.

Whether teaching, performing, directing, adjudicating, or mentoring, McCulley is dedicated to empowering artists through joyful training, compassionate leadership, and a shared celebration of music, theatre, and storytelling.