Chris Johnson, Clarinet
Has played with the Salina Symphony since: 2010
Hometown: Marquette, KS
Current City: Wichita, KS
Education: BA, Music Education, Kansas State University, 2008; MM, Kansas State University, 2015; M.S.Ed, Technology, 2018
Job Title: South Haven Public Schools – Technology Director, Assessment Coordinator
Earliest musical memory:
I will always remember watching my grandma’s player piano as a child. It was one of my favorite things to do at her house growing up and inspired my decision to take piano lessons at an early age.
Best part of being a Salina Symphony musician:
I love the community I get to be a part of every Monday evening. Getting to talk to and make music with so many incredible people is such an enriching experience.
Most memorable performance with the Salina Symphony:
I’ll never forget playing Tchaikovsky’s 5th symphony in 2013. It was my last performance with the Symphony before leaving for graduate school, and one of my last performances alongside my teacher and mentor, Jay Steinberg. Having been his student since 7th grade, getting to make music with him as an adult was always special. But that performance was so incredibly musical and memorable.
Favorite composers:
Beethoven has been my favorite for a long time. Every measure of his music is so masterfully put together.
What song best describes you when you first wake up in the morning?
So What by Miles Davis. I’m a little slow to start, but once I get going the morning is my favorite time of day.
What kind of music do you enjoy listening to?
A wide variety of music. I love going back and listening to music that I was into at a particular time; it really brings back some cool memories.
How do you spend your free time?
I love being outdoors. When the weather cooperates, I like to go for a walk in the morning, and Rachel and I try to find new places to hike whenever we can.
Whom do you admire?
My parents. They’re incredible people who are always there for the people around them, including me.
What is your greatest accomplishment?
Working up the courage to propose to my wife!