Music Academy Staff
Kelly Yoakum
Piano
I graduated with a bachelor's degree in early childhood education and began teaching piano to beginner students in 2006. As a student myself, I struggled with reading music — so I make it a priority to make learning to read music fun! My primary goal is to give students a strong foundation in the basics of music, and I'm passionate about being a lifelong learner alongside them. I strive to show kids that music is a form of play and expression.
In addition to teaching, I serve as the children's director at Point Washington UMC. I'm thrilled to share my talents with the PoWASH Music Academy family!
Darrin Lyon
All band instruments and piano
I'm a native of Okaloosa County and attended Rocky Bayou Christian School in Niceville. I earned my bachelor's degree in music education from Troy University, where I performed throughout the U.S. and Canada with the Troy University Symphony Band. My primary instrument is French horn, though I also have years of experience playing piano, trombone and sousaphone.
In 2015, I began teaching private lessons while working as a band assistant at Davidson Middle School in Crestview. The following year, I became the band director at Emerald Coast Middle School in Santa Rosa Beach, where I continue to serve today. I live in Fort Walton Beach with my wife and five sons and attend Westminster Presbyterian Church. I'm excited to share my love of music with the PoWASH Music Academy family!
McCalle Tobler
Voice, guitar and piano
I have called Santa Rosa Beach, Fla., home for the last four years, having grown up in Utah. I graduated from the University of Utah with degrees in both piano performance and psychology and have been teaching piano for 14 years. I love sharing my passion with students who are eager to learn!
My performance background includes serving as a guest solo artist with the Salt Lake Symphony, winning numerous competitions in both piano and voice, and singing throughout Europe with the Utah Ambassadors of Music. In addition to teaching, I work as a composer and accompanist for several school districts across the Florida Panhandle.
When I'm not at the piano, you'll find me baking, singing, traveling, playing guitar, cooking, biking, paddleboarding or spending time with family. I'm so excited to be a part of the PoWASH Music Academy family!
Ryan Alan Linguiti
Guitar, drums, bass, song writing, DJing, Production
I'm a singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer, DJ and music educator based on Florida's Emerald Coast. Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, I've dedicated my life to music since I started playing at age 3, and I've been performing consistently since my teenage years.
My sound blends rock, pop, country, soul, hip-hop and coastal influences into something authentic that connects with all kinds of audiences. Whether I'm playing an intimate acoustic set, a high-energy beach show or a DJ event that keeps the dance floor moving, my passion for entertaining shows every time I take the stage.
I've performed across the United States, including in Nashville, Tennessee, and internationally in Berlin, Germany. For more than five years, I've also taught music here on the Emerald Coast, helping students of all ages build their skills and confidence.
As an artist and producer, I'm committed to making music that inspires, tells honest stories and leaves a lasting impression. My mission is simple: bring people together through unforgettable performances and meaningful songs.
Brittany Adams
Director
I grew up in Marietta, Ga., the daughter of a United Methodist minister of music, where my love of music and faith were woven together from the very beginning. From singing in the children's choir to performing with the handbell ensemble, touring the country with the church youth choir and earning all-state honors in my high school choir, music has always been at the heart of who I am.
I attended Ole Miss on a vocal scholarship before transferring to and graduating from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development. After 17 successful years in corporate management, I answered God's call in a new direction. In 2018, I moved to Santa Rosa Beach with my husband, Matt, and daughters Elise and Amelia, where I spent seven fulfilling years as a pre-K co-teacher at a local Christian preschool.
Now, as director of the PoWASH Music Academy, I'm living out my calling — bringing more fine arts opportunities to our South Walton community and sharing the love of Christ with students along their musical journey!