Welcome to "This Is My Story," a new blog series dedicated to highlighting the journeys of individuals within the Polyphony Music Resources family.
In these posts, we turn the spotlight on some of our dedicated church musicians. Through personal anecdotes and professional milestones, we’ll learn a little more about them and hopefully, get to know one another better.
This series aims to inspire and celebrate the invaluable contributions of our musical leaders. Join us as we delve into their stories and continue to strengthen our connections.
Meet Toney Keeler
Director of Choral Activities - Northwest Rankin High School, Flowood, MS
Director of Music and Worship, Northside Baptist Church, Clinton, MS
Present City - Jackson, Mississippi
Hometown - Lumberton, Mississippi
Education:
Masters Music Education from William Carey University
Bachelor Music Education from William Carey University
Tell us about your family.
I am one of four children and a twin. Music and faith played central roles in my life growing up, especially through our involvement in church music from a young age. My mother was a dedicated singer and a novice pianist, and her influence encouraged a deep appreciation for worship and the arts. My twin brother, Mychael, excelled as a sports star during his youth and later transitioned into playing drums in church, contributing his talents to worship services.
We grew up during the height of the Charismatic Spirit-filled movement, which shaped many of our family experiences and traditions. Worship was more than a weekly activity; it was a regular part of our lives and formed many of my earliest fondest memories. Music was often the backdrop for our family moments, creating a lasting connection between faith and family.
My sisters, Kabriana and Chesnie, live in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and Florence, South Carolina, with their spouses, respectively. Both are strong and supportive and despite living in different states, we maintain a close relationship. Chesnie participated in Choir and Show Choir in high school and college, and serves on the Worship Team at the Church at Sandhurst in Florence, SC. I also have a niece, McKynleigh, an accomplished dancer who participates in cheerleading at Moore Middle School. Her dedication and enthusiasm in these activities are certainly a source of pride for our family.
Our upbringing in a household focused on music, faith, and shared experiences has had a significant impact on who I am today. These elements have shaped my values, passions, and perspective on life.
Favorite hobbies?
I love exploring new foods and discovering unique dishes, whether it’s trying something new at a restaurant or experimenting in the kitchen. I’m also a big fan of a good coffee shop—there’s nothing better than spending time with a great cup of coffee, soaking in the atmosphere, and catching up with friends. On weekends, I especially enjoy diving into the culture of New Orleans. The food, the music, the energy—leaves you feeling so alive and so inspired. I love a quick trip for beignets and a good cup of chicory, and rarely, but even better, time for a weekend exploring the city; it’s one of my favorite ways to unwind and recharge.
How have you participated in Polyphony?
This will be my first Polyphony Conference! I am honored to chair a panel.
What do you think God is up to in your life right now?
God is actively working in my life, and I have so much to be grateful for! Though my schedule is often busy and demanding, I am blessed to oversee a thriving choral music program in the Jackson Metro area, that serves 245 students in grades 6-12. I have the privilege of working with incredibly talented individuals who care deeply for our students and bring invaluable skills to our team. Together, we’ve created opportunities for our students that I once only dreamed of, and I thank God for bringing us together. It’s an honor to mentor my colleagues, share lessons from my early years as an educator, and watch them grow and succeed both in the classroom and on the podium.
At Northside, God is moving powerfully within our church. The Music Ministry is thriving, filled with kind, hardworking, and skilled individuals who serve with intentionality and dedication. The choir and instrumentalists work together to create meaningful worship experiences that inspire and uplift our congregation. After serving for 15 years at the church where I grew up, transitioning to a faith expression in the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship was both exciting and intimidating. Yet, God has placed thoughtful and compassionate people in my life who have shepherded and guided me through this transition. This season has heightened my awareness of God’s presence, teaching me to pause, breathe, and embrace each moment.
I’m learning to lean into the daily rhythm of life, even in its mundane aspects, and to recognize the Holy Spirit’s guidance in small, meaningful ways. God continually reminds me to use my abilities and skills to reflect His love, acceptance, and generosity. In both my professional and spiritual life, I feel a profound sense of purpose and gratitude for how God is shaping my journey.
Tell us about your faith journey.
My faith journey has been one of growth, discovery, and an ongoing awareness of God’s presence. I grew up in Lumberton, Mississippi, and moved to Hattiesburg, Mississippi in the 9th Grade. From a young age, I was immersed in church life, where music was at the heart of worship. Singing praise and worship courses, experiencing vibrant worship, and feeling the love of my church family shaped my early relationship with God and taught me the value of community and faith. Music quickly became a way to express my faith and connect with others, laying the foundation for my life’s calling.
After graduating from Oak Grove High School, I attended William Carey University, where I deepened my love for music and ministry. Returning to Oak Grove Middle School as a teacher was fulfilling, yet God was calling me to something new. In 2019, I stepped out on faith and relocated to the Jackson area to serve as Director of Choral Activities at Northwest Rankin High School. This move meant leaving the familiarity of home, but it also marked the start of a new chapter in my walk with God.
In 2020, I joined Northside as Director of Music, and it became clear that God had orchestrated this path. Northside has been more than a place of worship—it’s been a community that has demonstrated God's love through care, encouragement, and action. Their support sustained me during moments of uncertainty, especially throughout the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This community has not only affirmed me but also challenged me to reflect on my faith and live it out daily.
Through my work at Northwest and Northside, I’ve seen how music can unite diverse people in ways unimaginable. By intentionally incorporating Gospel, American Folk, and traditional hymns, our worship reflects the richness of His kingdom. My journey has taught me to trust His plan, and I’m deeply grateful for the ways God has guided me, grown my faith, and allowed me to serve God's people.
Something interesting most people would not know about you.
I love collecting china and glassware and, when I have time, I enjoy spending weekends exploring estate sales. Over the years, I’ve developed the ability to identify most patterns on the spot!!!
What adjectives best describe you?
Passionate, Relentless, Exuberant
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