Home » Blog » Remembering Conservatory Professor Emeritus Stephen Johnston

Remembering Conservatory Professor Emeritus Stephen Johnston

Professor Emeritus of Conducting and Clarinet Stephen Johnston, D.M.A., passed away at the age of 82 on Friday, Aug. 16. Shenandoah Conservatory joins the larger Shenandoah University community in mourning the loss of an esteemed member of our institution and celebrating his contributions to our learning community and beyond.

Dr. Johnston served as professor of clarinet and held the Anna Lee Van Buren Chair in Clarinet at Shenandoah Conservatory. During his tenure, he conducted the Wind Ensemble for 13 years. Johnston also served as chair of the musical academic and instrumental divisions. He began teaching at Shenandoah in 1972 and retired in 2007.

Visit ompsfuneralhome.com to read his obituary. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Fellowship Fund of Westminster-Canterbury in Winchester by visiting SVWC.org/s/foundation.

Categories:

Recent News

Combined photos of two graduates hugging their father/stepfather on stage.

Wilkins Family’s Shenandoah Legacy Continues At 2026 Commencement

James R. Wilkins, IV ’26, Addison Rathel ’26 earn degrees from a university built on their family’s support

An aerial shot of the graduates spelling out 2026 on the football field.

Shenandoah University Celebrates Over 1,400 Graduates At 2026 Commencement

Ceremony recognized the achievements of August and December 2025 graduates and over 800 candidates for May degree conferrals

Shenandoah students pose in graduation regalia and Buzzy mascot feet.

The Faces Behind Buzzy: Two Students Graduate After Years Playing Shenandoah’s Hornet Mascot

Nathan Lee ’26 and Randall Watson ’26 led double lives bringing Buzzy to life

Monthly Archives