David Johnston
San Diego born and raised trombonist David Johnston began his studies in 2018 in his high school marching band. He discovered his life passion and has pursued music to this day.
David has played in various ensembles from jazz to classical, such as the La Jolla Symphony, Big Time Operator, OSU Wind Ensemble, as well as having the honor to play with the Colorado Symphony. From 2020-2022, David was the principal of the San Diego Youth Symphony. David has also participated in various prestigious summer institutes such as the Banff Centre Interplay program and will be a participant of the Aspen Music Festival and School Orchestral/Instrumental program this coming summer.
David was a finalist in the 2025 Big 12 Tenor Trombone Competition and 2024 Jefferson Symphony Orchestra Youth Artist Competition, and the winner of the 2024 Hyechka Club of Tulsa Robert Heckman Orchestral Competition.
David has had the opportunity to record alongside many internationally known artists such as Alan Baer, Megumi Masaki, Joel Brennan, Remi Le Boeuf, and others on various albums and singles.
David has been fortunate to study under his father, Bob Johnston, Peter Steiner, Richard Harris, Ohtae Kwon, and Sean Reusch. He is currently studying at Oklahoma State University under Paul Compton for his Bachelors in Music.
His trombone arsenal features a LITTIN S217, 1970 Conn 88h, and a Yamaha YSL-891Z Custom Z. He also plays on Griego mouthpieces.
Outside of music, you’ll find David spending time with family and friends, cooking, and traveling.
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Last Updated in March 2025
© 2025 David Johnston