Beyond the Note students and instructor with instruments in the studio

Where every student finds their voice.

Beyond the Note is a place where students of all ages reach their musical potential. Through personalized instruction, real-world experiences, and a passion for teaching, we help musicians grow from first notes to confident performances.

Meet Our Team

Brandon Mitchell, Founder

Brandon Mitchell performing on vibraphone

Brandon has shared his talents on main stages around the world, most notably in many states along the East Coast as well as renowned venues in Italy. Brandon has performed alongside jazz greats such as Branford Marsalis, Joey Calderazzo, Jon Metzger, and John Fedchock at festivals including the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival and the John Coltrane International Jazz & Blues Festival.

BJ Kelly, guitar instructor

BJ Kelly, Guitar

BJ Kelly is an experienced music educator, guitarist, bassist, and live performer with a B.S. in Music Recording and Communications Technology from Barton College. He teaches private guitar lessons at Guitar Center and works with students of varying ages and skill levels, helping them build technique, musicality, ear training, theory knowledge, improvisation skills, and confidence. His teaching and performance background includes jazz, rock, metal, classical, flamenco, blues, and contemporary styles. His experience in performance, recording, and live sound gives him a practical, well-rounded approach to music education.

Jasmé Kelly, music production instructor

Jasmé Kelly, Music Production

Jasmé Kelly is a music producer, recording artist, songwriter, and educator with more than 20 years of professional experience in the music industry. With a Master of Music Technology from Southern Utah University, Jasmé combines hands-on experience in music production, audio engineering, performance, songwriting, guitar, and voice with a strong foundation in modern music technology.

As an educator, Jasmé has worked with students across K–12 and higher education settings, providing instruction in music production, digital audio, music technology, guitar, voice, and creative arts. Jasmé’s teaching approach connects real-world music industry experience with engaging, technology-driven instruction while helping students develop their technical skills, musicality, creativity, and confidence.

Josh Mickens in formal attire outside Carnegie Hall

Josh Mickens, Drums

Josh has spent years traveling the world as a musician performing on major stages in Japan, New Orleans, New York, and more! These experiences have shaped a versatile skillset that he now uses to create value within and beyond music. One thing that he loves just as much as being a traveling musician is being able to share these experiences and impart this knowledge into the next generation. Not only does he want them to be the best they can be, but he wants them to be better than him.

Ericka Winstead, voice and piano instructor

Ericka Winstead, Voice & Piano

Ericka is a voice and piano instructor with over 25 years of teaching experience, helping students of all ages build strong musical skills while developing confidence, creativity, and authentic self-expression. As a classically trained opera singer, Reiki Master, and wellness educator, she creates a supportive learning environment that nurtures both musical excellence and personal growth. Her teaching blends healthy technique, artistry, and encouragement, helping students discover not only how to sing and play with confidence, but how to express themselves with authenticity and joy.

Ericka believes that music is more than a skill to be mastered. It is a powerful tool for connection, healing, creativity, and personal transformation. Every lesson is thoughtfully tailored to each student’s unique goals, learning style, and personality, creating an experience where they feel seen, supported, and inspired. Whether preparing for performances, building technical skills, or simply discovering the joy of making music, her goal is to help every student grow in confidence while cultivating a lifelong love of music in an atmosphere of encouragement, curiosity, and genuine care.

Beyond the Note's 3 E's

Developing students into true musicians.

  1. 1 Education — Personalized instruction tailored to your goals and learning style.
  2. 2 Entertainment — Engaging, fun learning that keeps students motivated.
  3. 3 Experiences — Recording opportunities and performances beyond lessons.
Hands playing piano keys in a warm, focused lesson setting
Instructor guiding a student during a private piano lesson
Instructor teaching a student to play a percussion instrument

Outcome 01

Student Success Stories

Through personalized instruction and real-world experience, students can build toward advanced music study and the next stage of their musical education.

  1. 1 Berklee College of Music — One of the world's premier music schools, known for its innovative curriculum and industry connections.
  2. 2 University of North Texas — Recognized for its outstanding jazz studies program and world-class faculty.
  3. 3 University of North Carolina Asheville — A comprehensive music program that combines performance, theory, and liberal arts education.
Music producer working at a mixing console in a recording studio

Frequently Asked Questions