SOUTHERN MUSIC ACADEMY

Atlanta-native Ben Dawson is a Trombone/Euphonium player with 16 years of both classical and jazz performance experience. Prior to college, Ben served as a section leader and drum major in Dunwoody High School's marching band, a member of the Metropolitan Atlanta Youth Wind Ensemble, and performed in various extracurricular ensembles such as All-State Band and UGA's JanFest.

David is a highly accomplished and dedicated piano instructor with over twenty years of
experience teaching in private studios, music academies, and classroom settings, known for
fostering a supportive, engaging, and inspiring learning environment for students of all ages.

Faith Carson, a native of the Metro East Saint Louis area, grew up with music as a constant inspiration. She first started playing the piano when she was four years old.

Natalie Williams began playing flute at the age of 7. As the daughter of a musician her first memories of music is making her father proud that she was excited about music. In middle and high school, she competed in music competitions for All County Band and All State Band

Born in Louisiana, Tyler developed his rhythmical chops early by playing drums in his parents’ church since he was 5 years old.

A graduate of University of Missouri-Columbia, Burdett has taught piano since 1998 in varying capacities. He teaches all ages and skill levels. Specializing in teaching Classical, Soul and Gospel, Burdett has a versatile and engaging approach coupled with an entertaining personality to help keep all students loving their lessons.

Amore Francis holds a Master's degree in Piano Performance and Theory and has performed and studied around the world. He teaches students of all ages and abilities, including those with special needs, with patience and encouragement.

Jeremy Johnson was raised in the Metro Atlanta area and has been surrounded by music since he was a toddler. His mother, a singer and children's choir director in the church, introduced him early to the joy of music through singing.

Roman, an experienced musician and artist, uses his think-outside-the-box mentality to inspire others through his passion for Classical Piano and Acoustic & Electric Guitar.

Yini strives to instill confidence in her students. She inspires kids to enjoy making music and learn about its rich history

Cornell Stokes is a dedicated music educator and active performer based in Metro Atlanta. He is a graduate of the Music Education program at Georgia State University. With a strong commitment to student growth and musical excellence, he works with middle and high school band programs across the region as a concert and marching band clinician.

Evann De-Bose is an actress, vocalist, and educator from St. Louis, MO. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theatre Arts from Stephens College in Columbia, MO. She has over 15 years of experience directing youth performances, teaching theatre, vocal technique, and early childhood music.

Laurencia Faith is a passionate vocalist, choir director, vocal instructor, and creative artist dedicated to helping singers discover the full potential of their voices while cultivating confidence, excellence, and authentic expression.

Terrell Montgomery brings decades of experience as a professional musician and music educator to Southern Music Academy, along with an active career as a touring and recording musician.