Dustin S. Cates

Dustin S. Cates serves as Assistant Professor of Music Education at Temple University's Boyer College of Music and Dance, where he conducts the Temple University Chorale and teaches courses in choral/vocal pedagogy, methods, and music education. His leadership extends to graduate student supervision and active engagement with national professional organizations.

His academic credentials include:

• PhD in Choral Music Education from University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory
• MSSL in School Leadership from Baker University
• BME in Choral Music Education from University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory

Dr. Cates' research pioneers critical discourse on diversity, equity, and inclusion within choral contexts, with groundbreaking investigations into gender-inclusive teaching practices for transgender students and LGBTQ+ representation in choir settings. His scholarship interrogates systemic barriers while developing actionable frameworks for creating psychologically safe musical environments that affirm all identities. This work intersects music education with social justice movements through rigorous qualitative analysis of director attitudes and singer experiences.

Analysis of his 2017-2020 publications reveals dominant themes in gender-inclusive pedagogy, LGBTQ+ choruses, and social justice applications. Over 70% of his works address transgender inclusion strategies and LGBTQ+ singer experiences, demonstrating consistent scholarly focus on marginalized identities. Secondary themes explore effective choral leadership traits and vocal health, reflecting his dual commitment to pedagogical excellence and educator well-being. His publications predominantly target practitioner audiences through conference presentations rather than traditional journal articles.

Dr. Cates actively supervises graduate students in music education while contributing to the field through leadership roles including National ACDA Repertoire and Resources Chair for Tenor/Bass ensembles and Past President of the Kansas Choral Directors Association. His professional development workshops for institutions like Einstein Medical Center demonstrate interdisciplinary impact beyond traditional music education settings.

He maintains significant community engagement through conducting the Temple University Chorale and former Artistic Directorship of Heartland Men's Chorus. His collaborative networks span academic institutions (UMKC, Temple University), professional associations (NAfME, ACDA), and community organizations including The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection where he previously served as Associate Director of Worship Arts.