Skirvin studied music at the Jordan Conservatory in Indianapolis and at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. As a composer, he specializes in choral music and has composed for a variety of choral ensembles. His works have been premiered and recorded by many Seattle-based choral ensembles. His is well-known for his a cappella work, Alchemy, which had been featured on a Grammy-nominated recording by the professional chamber choir, Conspirare.