She holds a Ph.D. in musicology-ethnomusicology (2012) and an M.A. in ethnomusicology (2007) from Kent State University. Dr. Johnstone’s research interests include cognitive semiotics, cultural identity, Welsh choral traditions, and U.S. immigrant history. She remains active in presenting her work at national and international conferences, and has published in a variety of peer-reviewed publications, including The Journal of the Polynesian Society and The Journal of Band Research.