Music Instructors

Stacy Branch

Stacy Branch, a native of Augusta, GA, received her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Georgia, her Master of Science in Education degree from Troy State University and her Education Specialist Degree from Augusta State University.  Ms. Branch was a music educator in Columbia County for 33 years. She was the Director of Choirs at Columbia Middle School for two years and Lakeside High School for 31 years. Ms. Branch also directed the Harmony River Chorus, an affiliate of Sweet Adelines International for 13 years.  Her choirs have competed throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Iowa and Missouri receiving multiple awards.  Ms. Branch was named Teacher of the Year twice at Lakeside High School.  She continues to be a member of the National Association of Music Educators and active in directing community choirs while living in the Augusta area.

For availability and pricing, see our booking tool.

Brandon Stewart

Brandon Stewart is a passionate vocalist, pianist, and music education major with a lifelong dedication to the study and performance of music. Beginning his musical journey in middle school band on clarinet and saxophone, he later transitioned to voice, where he now focuses his academic and professional pursuits. He currently serves as the choir director at Faith Gospel Worship Service on Fort Eisenhower, GA, a role he has held for three years, and previously served as tenor section leader at First Presbyterian Church of Macon, GA. Brandon’s extensive ensemble experience and leadership reflect his commitment to both musical excellence and education.

For availability and pricing, see our booking tool.

Elliot Mills

Elliott Mills is a passionate drummer with 7 years of experience behind the kit, dedicated to helping students of all ages and skill levels unlock their rhythm and confidence. Whether you’re picking up sticks for the first time or looking to refine your technique, He tailors each lesson to your goals—making learning fun, challenging, and rewarding.

For availability and pricing, see our booking tool.

Anna Storey

Anna Storey has been involved in music and performing for over 15 years. She earned her Bachelor of Music Therapy with a concentration in voice from Georgia College & State University. Throughout her education and career, Anna has gained experience working with students of all ages through private lessons, music therapy sessions, and adaptive music instruction. She has a diverse musical background with several instruments, including piano, guitar, and even harmonica and accordion. As a performer, Anna has appeared in a variety of settings and genres, allowing her to develop a well-rounded approach to music education. While she enjoys many styles of music, her primary specialties are musical theatre and classical voice. Anna is passionate about helping students grow in confidence, develop healthy vocal technique, and discover a lifelong love of music.

For availability and pricing, see our booking tool.

Robert Jarrell

Mr. Jarrell received his Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Georgia, where he had the privilege of studying saxophone with Dr. Kenneth Fischer. He received a Master’s Degree from Troy State University, having the honor of working with both Dr. John Long and Mr. Robert W. Smith. Mr. Jarrell continued his education by earning a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership at Augusta State University and a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from Georgia College and State University.

Mr. Jarrell has been involved in public education for the past 41 years. He began his career in Richmond County, where he served as both a Middle and High School Band Director. In 1988, Mr. Jarrell had the opportunity to open Lakeside High School in Columbia County, where he served as Director of Bands for 15 years. During his tenure at Lakeside High School, groups under his direction were selected to perform for such prestigious institutions as the University of Georgia High School Music Festival, the Georgia Music Educators Association In-Service Conference, Southeastern United States Band Clinic, Banks United Thanksgiving Parade (Houston, TX), and The Hollywood Christmas Parade (Hollywood, CA).

Mr. Jarrell moved into Administration in 2002, retiring from Columbia County in 2014 as Assistant Superintendent for Student Support. After he retired from Columbia County, Mr. Jarrell began working at Augusta University and currently serves as the Clarinet Instructor. He continues to be active as a musician in the Augusta area.

For availability and pricing, see our booking tool.

Van Haywood

Van Haywood has been making music for most of his life. His journey began in the 1960s, when he first played piano and clarinet, then played electric guitar in garage bands. Over time his love of music led him to acoustic guitar and to performing with folk-rock, bluegrass, gospel, and country groups. Through the years, Van has enjoyed sharing music in many settings, from youth groups to both contemporary and traditional worship services. Along with guitar, he also plays bass, dobro, some banjo, and ukulele. Teaching and encouraging others has always been an important part of Van’s musical life. He has taught guitar lessons at several area churches and currently hosts a jam session at his church for beginning guitar players. He also helped each of his children get started on guitar, and today music remains a meaningful part of life for his whole family, including his wife. Van believes people learn music best by playing alongside others, so while he enjoys helping students begin with individual lessons, his hope is to help them grow into confident musicians who can join in with a band, worship team, or casual jam session. Van currently performs with the Trinity Bluegrass Gospel Band and the country-gospel band A Little off the Top. In his professional life, Van is an academic dentist and Professor Emeritus. He taught for 30 years at the Dental College of Georgia in Augusta and 12 years at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, following seven years in private practice in Augusta.

For availability and pricing, see our booking tool.