MEET THE DIRECTORS
MOLLY BLAIR
BAND DIRECTOR
Dr. Molly Blair
Molly Blair is a dedicated educator and researcher in the field of music education, known for her passion and commitment to fostering a positive learning environment for students. Born and raised in Lincolnton, North Carolina, Dr. Blair developed a deep love for music from a young age, and studied music education at Western Carolina University, where she graduated with honors. During her time at WCU, Molly served as the Woodwind Coordinator for the Sudler Trophy winning Pride of the Mountains Marching Band, performed with the Wind Ensemble, and studied Flute with Dr. Eldred Spell.
Dr. Blair embarked on her teaching career in the greater Charlotte, NC area, where she taught middle and high school band. During this time, she worked with high school and collegiate marching bands, maintained an active adjudication schedule, and taught private flute lessons. Her exceptional teaching skills and ability to connect with her students quickly made her a respected figure within the music education community.
In 2018, Molly and her husband, Andrew, enrolled at the University of Georgia, where they pursued their master’s and doctoral degrees in music. Molly was a graduate teaching assistant of instrumental music education in the Hugh Hodgson School of Music, worked with the Sudler Trophy winning Redcoat Marching Band, conducted the UGA Symphonic and Concert Bands, and performed with the Athens Flute Choir. Her research explores the relationship between student self-talk, student beliefs about their musical ability, and the creation of supportive music classroom environments. Dr. Blair's innovative and thought-provoking research has earned her recognition within the music education community, including multiple presentations at the Georgia Music Educator’s Conference, National Association for Music Education (NAfME) national conference, and the 8th International Symposium for Assessment in Music Education.
In 2023, Dr. Blair graduated with a PhD in music education from the University of Georgia. Molly, her husband, Andrew, their 3-year-old son, Bennett, and 2 dogs, Chaco and Fritz currently live in Ladson, SC. Dr. Blair is so excited to join the DuBose Middle School team and DuBose Middle School Band family. Go Wildcats!
Dr. Blair is an active member of NAfME, SCMEA, SMTE, and SRME.
ANTHONY (AJ) JOHNSTON
BAND DIRECTOR
Mr. Anthony (AJ) Johnston
AJ Johnston is one of the new directors at DuBose Middle School in Summerville, SC where he will be teaching both band and orchestra. He graduated from the University of South Carolina where he earned a Bachelor of Music with Emphasis in Music Education, also graduating from the USC Honors college. During his time at the university he was the drum major of the Carolina Band and lead alto saxophone player in the Left Bank Big Band. He has taught young musicians at Lakeside Middle School and Riverbluff High School during his student teaching, and taught at summer camps/clinics, such as the Music for All Summer Symposium and USC Drum Major Clinic. Professional affiliations include National Association for Music Education (NAfME), South Carolina Music Educators Association (SCMEA), South Carolina Band Directors Association (SCBDA), North American Saxophone Association (NASA), and Kappa Kappa Psi (KKY). When he is not teaching AJ enjoys playing board/video games and spending time with his friends and family.