Dr. Dustin Ferguson
Visiting Assistant Professor of Music
Interim Associate Director of Bands
Dr. Dustin B. Ferguson is an accomplished conductor and educator, currently serving as the Interim Associate Director of Bands and Marching Band Director at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. In this capacity, he oversees the Symphonic Band and Concert Band, directs the celebrated Rainbow Warrior Marching Band, as well as teaching courses in music education.
Dr. Ferguson’s academic journey is distinguished by his recent tenure as a Doctoral Graduate Teaching Associate in Instrumental Conducting at The Ohio State University. There, he played a pivotal role in teaching conducting courses and marching band techniques, guest conducting various ensembles, and contributing to the OSU Marching and Athletic Bands as both conductor and staff member.
Before embarking on his doctoral studies, Dr. Ferguson served as one of the Band Directors at Park Vista Community High School. Under his leadership, the school’s ensembles consistently earned Superior ratings at both district and state levels. His direction led the marching band to become a Grand Nationals Semi-Finalist and participants in the prestigious Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Super Bowl LIV Half-Time Performance. His excellence in teaching was recognized early on when he was named Beginning Teacher of the Year in 2019.
A native of Florida, Dr. Ferguson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a Master’s degree in Wind Band Conducting from the University of Florida. He holds memberships in the College Band Directors Association, NAfME, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, and Pi Kappa Lambda, as well as honorary membership in Kappa Kappa Psi. His research at Ohio State was honored with the Peter A. Costanza Outstanding DMA Document Award, and he is a 2024 Finalist for the American Prize in Wind Band Conducting.
Dr. Ferguson’s talents extend beyond conducting; he is also a skilled saxophonist and a sought-after clinician for concert, jazz, and marching bands. His performances with the American Chamber Winds have taken him to international stages, where he has collaborated with renowned musicians like Wycliffe Gordon, Joseph Alessi, and Rex Richardson.
In his personal life, Dr. Ferguson is dedicated to competitive bodybuilding and physique athletics. He also cherishes time spent traveling with his wife, Elizabeth. His multifaceted career and personal interests underscore his commitment to excellence in both music and life.