Our Teachers
Our teachers champion Music Education Advocacy in our local community! Their passion and commitment to uplifting our youth is truly inspiring. Together, we're not just making a difference today. We are shaping a vibrant future for our children! Let’s create something amazing!
Dr. Cory D. Dugar
Music Educator | Performer | Author | Arts Advocate
Dr. Cory D. Dugar is a visionary music educator, accomplished performer, and passionate advocate for the healing and transformative power of music. As the Founder and Executive Director of Sound Mind Music Conservatory, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Dr. Dugar is reshaping access to high-quality music education, music therapy, and technology-based training for underserved communities. His mission is rooted in equity, creativity, and wellness—bringing sound minds to life through sound waves.
Born and raised in Crowley, Louisiana, Dr. Dugar’s musical journey began early under the influence of his father, Bishop Louis Dugar. Surrounded by the soulful resonance of Gospel, Jazz, and R&B, he found his first musical voice at the piano and quickly developed a natural affinity for instruments and harmony. From school bands and church choirs to neighborhood performances and community ensembles, Dr. Dugar’s formative years were filled with meaningful musical encounters that would lay the foundation for his lifelong dedication to teaching and mentoring.
Dr. Dugar earned his doctorate in music education with a focus on instrumental pedagogy, music technology, and performance. His professional career spans leadership roles in Louisiana, Texas, and Arizona, where he has served as a band director, choir instructor, and music production educator. Known for his ability to revive and rebuild music programs, he has created thriving feeder systems, directed festival-winning ensembles, and led students in performances at parades, competitions, and cultural events across the country.
In addition to his educational and performance work, Dr. Dugar is a skilled music producer and mentor, guiding young artists through the creative and technical processes of songwriting, recording, and artistic development. His mentorship extends beyond the studio, helping aspiring musicians discover their unique voice, navigate the industry, and use music as a medium for self-expression and impact.
At Sound Mind Music Conservatory, Dr. Dugar leads innovative initiatives in instrumental training, digital music production, performing arts, and music therapy. He champions the integration of creative arts with emotional and mental health support, believing that music is not only a form of expression but a tool for resilience, self-discovery, and community healing.
Dr. Dugar is also a published author. His children’s book, The Little Dude and His BIG Piano, encourages young readers to embrace the wonder of music and follow their dreams with confidence. His forthcoming memoir, Instrumental Dissonance: Equalizing the Scales of Harmony and Dischord, is a powerful reflection on music’s influence on the mind and spirit, weaving personal experiences with broader themes of identity, struggle, and growth.
Whether he’s mentoring the next generation of musicians, training educators, performing on global stages, or expanding the reach of music therapy, Dr. Cory D. Dugar continues to live out his calling: to use music as a bridge between hearts, a catalyst for healing, and a force for transformation.
Marcus Dugar
Music Educator | Producer | Visionary Leader | Creative Mentor
Marcus Dugar is a visionary music educator, accomplished producer, and co-founder of Sound Mind Music Conservatory, where he plays a foundational role in revolutionizing access to high-quality music education. With a mission rooted in purpose and creativity, Marcus blends artistry and innovation to shape the next generation of musicians, engineers, and creatives. His work sits at the intersection of education, empowerment, and entrepreneurship, making him a transformative force in today’s music landscape.
As CEO of The Producers’ Academy, Marcus has created a pipeline for aspiring artists, producers, and audio engineers to gain industry-relevant skills and professional insight. His programs go beyond technical instruction—they instill a mindset of excellence, discipline, and possibility. From beat-making and sound design to mixing, mastering, and career strategy, Marcus ensures his students are prepared for the realities of the evolving music industry. He mentors with intention, helping learners not just make music, but make meaning through music.
A gifted songwriter and guitarist, Marcus brings a soulful, hands-on energy to every space he enters. Whether he’s composing original material, developing curriculum, or teaching live workshops, he fuses his deep musical roots with cutting-edge technology. His sessions are immersive experiences—full of experimentation, discovery, and creative freedom. Students walk away not only with sharper technical skills, but with a renewed sense of purpose and identity as creators.
Marcus’s passion is particularly focused on reaching youth in underserved communities—those who often lack access to music programs, mentorship, and resources. He believes music is a powerful tool for unlocking potential, healing trauma, and building confidence. His approachable teaching style, cultural awareness, and genuine commitment to student growth have made him a trusted voice and role model among emerging creatives and educators alike.
Throughout his career, Marcus has partnered with schools, community programs, nonprofits, and independent artists to amplify voices that are often unheard. His leadership within Sound Mind Music Conservatory is not just administrative—it’s heart work. He is helping redefine what music education looks like by creating inclusive, future-forward programs that center creativity, technology, and wellness.
Whether producing tracks in the studio, developing youth-centered workshops, or coaching creators on their artistic journey, Marcus is guided by one clear vision: to build sound minds through sound waves. He sees every student, every beat, and every track as an opportunity to uplift, equip, and inspire.
From the classroom to the control room, Marcus Dugar continues to break barriers, open doors, and create spaces where creativity is not just taught—it’s lived.
Josh Dugar
Drum Instructor | Educator | Mentor | Performer
Josh Dugar brings a vibrant blend of rhythm, passion, and purpose to Sound Mind Music Conservatory as our lead drum instructor. With decades of experience behind the drum kit and in the classroom, Josh is more than a percussionist—he’s a dynamic educator and mentor who helps students unlock their potential through the power of rhythm.
From a young age, Josh was captivated by percussion. What started as a childhood interest quickly developed into a lifelong pursuit of musical excellence and creative expression. Over the years, he has cultivated a distinct style that combines technical skill with musicality, energy, and a deep understanding of how rhythm can move, motivate, and inspire.
By day, Josh is a dedicated Physical Education teacher with the Lafayette Parish School Board, where he promotes health, discipline, and teamwork. His work as an educator extends beyond physical fitness—he uses his platform to teach students valuable life skills like perseverance, focus, and confidence. These same values echo through his music instruction at Sound Mind, where he helps students grow both as musicians and individuals.
Josh is also an active performer and collaborator, known for bringing intensity and joy to every live performance. Whether he's playing with local bands, working on creative projects, or drumming alongside his two sons at home, music is always a central part of his life.
At Sound Mind Music Conservatory, Josh creates an encouraging, student-centered environment where learning is hands-on, energetic, and personalized. His teaching philosophy is all about helping students discover their unique groove, build consistent habits, and experience the fun and freedom that come with making music. He’s especially skilled at connecting with young musicians and making complex rhythms feel accessible and exciting.
Whether you're just picking up the sticks for the first time or fine-tuning your performance chops, Josh Dugar is ready to guide you—one beat, one groove, one breakthrough at a time.
Clinton Jones
Music Educator | Jazz Guitarist | Ensemble Director
Clinton Jones is a passionate and accomplished music educator with over 15 years of experience inspiring students through instrumental instruction, performance coaching, and ensemble leadership. Based in Opelousas, Louisiana, he currently serves as a band director for the Evangeline Parish School Board and as an adjunct music professor at Louisiana State University Eunice (LSUE), where he nurtures aspiring musicians in both academic and practical settings.
Mr. Jones holds a Bachelor of Science in Music and a Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. His academic foundation, paired with his performance background, fuels a well-rounded and innovative approach to music education. As the director of the Evangeline Parish Jazz Ensemble, he has created a vibrant platform for students to explore jazz improvisation, develop ensemble collaboration skills, and perform in community and regional events.
Throughout his career, Mr. Jones has directed and developed a wide range of music programs, including concert bands, marching bands, and jazz ensembles. His teaching is known for its engaging use of technology, emphasis on musicianship, and unwavering commitment to student growth. He incorporates modern teaching tools and culturally responsive methods to make music both accessible and transformative for learners of all backgrounds and abilities.
In addition to his work in public education and higher learning, Clinton is a skilled jazz guitarist and a sought-after private music instructor. He offers one-on-one lessons tailored to each student’s interests and strengths, helping them prepare for auditions, performances, and personal musical goals. His areas of expertise include instrumental instruction, jazz improvisation, music theory and composition, curriculum development, and performance preparation.
Driven by a belief in the transformative power of music, Clinton Jones is committed to cultivating inclusive, inspiring, and student-centered musical environments. Whether leading a band rehearsal, mentoring young jazz artists, or performing on stage, he brings heart, precision, and purpose to every note—building not only great musicians, but confident and creative individuals ready to make their mark.
DeMarquis “Southside” Randle
Drum Instructor | Mentor | Life Builder with Rhythm
DeMarquis Randle—affectionately known as “Southside”—is a devoted father, music producer, drum instructor, and life mentor whose heartbeat is fueled by three guiding forces: faith, family, and music. Rooted in Jeanerette, Louisiana, Southside believes that music is more than sound—it's the soundtrack of our lives, and teaching is a sacred, lifelong exchange of growth and inspiration.
His musical journey began at Jeanerette Senior High School, where the marching rhythms of adolescence sparked his passion. Years later, after achieving success in the music industry, he returned to those very halls—not as a student, but as a Drum Instructor and eventually Assistant Director of Bands. For DeMarquis, this wasn’t just a career move—it was a full-circle calling. Giving back to the same rehearsal fields that once nurtured his own dreams became a mission of love and legacy.
In his classroom, DeMarquis brings more than rhythms—he brings purpose, humility, and heart. His teaching philosophy is anchored in the belief that growth never ends. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, there's always another layer to explore. To him, students are more than musicians in the making—they are leaders, thinkers, and change-makers, and every lesson is an opportunity to speak life and build self-worth.
DeMarquis’ connection to Sound Mind Music Conservatory runs deep. The name alone resonated with his spirit—Sound Mind reflects his own calling: to use music not just as a skill, but as a healing tool that builds confidence, clarity, and emotional wellness. Teaching here isn’t just a role—it’s a ministry of mentorship.
When he’s not in the classroom, you’ll find him producing music, perfecting his craft on the drums, or spending time with family. His faith is ever-present, guiding his every beat and interaction. He believes in the power of rhythm to heal, unite, and inspire across generations.
As a mentor and role model, DeMarquis “Southside” Randle is on a mission to teach with purpose, lead with heart, and build strong minds—one rhythm, one student, one success story at a time.
One of DeMarquis’ guiding philosophies is captured in a favorite quote: “I live my life one beat at a time. We keep moving to the beat every day—until the final beat. In the end, we are all called to Never Stand Still.”
Brian M. Green
Pianist | Educator | Youth Mentor
Brian M. Green is a faith-driven pianist and educator from New Iberia, Louisiana, with over a decade of experience working with youth in both academic and community settings. He holds a Bachelor’s degree and is deeply committed to using his gifts to uplift, inspire, and serve.
For Brian, music is more than a skill—it’s a calling. He practices daily, not just to refine his craft, but to remain grounded in purpose. As the musician for two youth choirs in his parish, he views each rehearsal as an opportunity to minister through music, helping young people find their voice and their confidence in both sound and spirit.
Beyond the stage, Brian serves as a school bus driver in his local district, where his positive influence continues before and after school hours. Every interaction is guided by his belief that faith, consistency, and compassion can change lives.
Brian’s teaching style is rooted in simplicity, joy, and connection. He believes that when students feel valued and encouraged, learning becomes transformational. His journey is a testament to the idea that when you give with a willing heart, you often receive even more in return.