Born, raised and educated in New York City, Robert L. Johnston has been Director of String Studies at St. Francis Preparatory School since March of 1997. He is also the school’s Co-Internal Coordinator for its Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation. It was under his leadership that Prep became the first school ever to earn the Association’s Music Credential, which is aimed at recognizing only those schools with the most sophisticated programs and the highest goals in music education. He earned a New York State Senate Certificate of Merit in recognition of exceptional service as a teacher.
Mr. Johnston holds Bachelor's and Master’s degrees from the Manhattan School of Music where he was recipient of the Pablo Casals Award for Musical Accomplishment and Human Endeavor. He also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching Music degree from Lehman College.
Primarily a performer for many years, Mr. Johnston was especially involved in the presentation of new music, including over 150 world premiere performances and recordings, many as Associate Principal Bassist of the National Orchestral Association's New Music Project.
Mr. Johnston is a founding board member for the Washington Heights & Inwood Music Project. He also serves on the Board of Our Lady Queen of Marytrs Catholic Academy.