Staff
The Mustang Regiment has an outstanding staff who work very hard to ensure that all students in the program are given the best possible education.
Michael Baker
Director of Bands: Palmetto High School
Michael Baker Graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina School of Music. As a teacher, Mr. Baker has been an assistant conductor for many groups, as well as teaching on staff at many marching bands including the Blythewood Blue Legion. Mr. Baker also has much experience as a performer and soloist. He has competed and placed in national and international competitions including winning second prize in the North International Music Competition. He was also chosen as a soloist with the USC Symphony orchestra. Mr. Baker is originally from Aurora, IL
Gary Funderburk
Director of Bands: Palmetto Middle School
Gary Funderburk is originally from Greenwood, SC and currently serves as the band director at Palmetto Middle School. He started his teaching career in 2002 at Westview Middle School in Greenwood where bands under his direction consistently earned superior and excellent ratings at state and local festivals. In 2010, Mr. Funderburk became band director at Dixie High School and organized the school's first competitive marching band in in over fifteen years. During his time at Dixie High School the band program doubled in enrollment and consistently received excellent ratings at local and state marching competitions. Before earning a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Lander University, Mr. Funderburk served his country in the Air Force as an electronics technician. He was also saxophonist for the U.S. Air Force Tops-in-Blue. This honor awarded him the Air Force Achievement Medal and the opportunity to travel to many countries entertaining military troops around the world. He was voted teacher of the year 2008 at Westview Middle School, received the Music Discipline and Louis Armstrong Jazz award while at Lander University. Mr. Funderburk lives in the quiet town of Due West, SC with his wife Melissa and three children
Ray Piette
Brass Instructor
Ray Piette graduated from Powdersville High School and was a member of their marching band for 4 years. They served as Brass Captain of the band for 2 years. Ray performed at Bands of America in 2017 and performed at South Carolina Marching Band State Championships each year during their time in marching band. Ray participated in SC Region Band in 2018 and All-County band for 3 years. They were a member of the Anderson University Wind Symphony in 2020. Ray is originally from North Smithfield, RI
Rachel Smith
Colorguard Instructor
Ms. Rachel Smith graduated from Palmetto High School and participated in color guard and winter guard for 5 years. She served as Guard Captain for 3 years. She is now a sophomore majoring in Special Education at Anderson University. Although Rachel does not play an instrument, she participates and sings in the Anderson University Choir. Rachel is originally from Belton, SC.
Tanner newman
Percussion Instructor
Tanner Newman graduated from Palmetto High School and was a member of the Mustang Regiment for five years. He served as percussion captain his senior year. He is currently attending Anderson University where he is majoring in secondary math education. Tanner also plays violin in the Anderson Symphony Orchestra. Tanner is originally from Williamston, SC.