Mr. Justin Thornton is the Director of Bands at Landstown Middle School in Virginia Beach, VA, where he has taught since 2022. Mr. Thornton also currently serves as the Praise Team Leader at King’s Grant Baptist Church in Virginia Beach, VA.

Mr. Thornton earned his Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from James Madison University, studying with Dr. Chris Carrillo and Dr. John Nye. During his time at JMU, he was a member of the Marching Royal Dukes, where he marched in the 2018 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. He was also a member of the JMU Wind Symphony, Symphony Orchestra, and the award-winning JMU Brass Band. Mr. Thornton also helps as the Brass Instructor for the Landstown HS Marching Eagles.

Mr. Thornton has been a member of the Virginia Wind Symphony since 2023, playing at many venues across Virginia, including the 2023 Virginia Music Educators Association Conference. Mr. Thornton is also a member of the Virginia Band and Orchestra Director’s Association, the Virginia Music Educators Association, and the National Association for Music Education.

Mr. Thornton lives in Virginia Beach, VA with his wife Annabelle. In his free time, he enjoys cheering on the JMU Dukes, camping, seeing live music, and spending time with family and friends.