NYS Music’s feature series Local Limelight is a special and integral collection of interviews that shine a spotlight on New York State’s music community. Today’s Local Limelight is Ryan Johnson.
In this conversational interview Bethany Couture sits down with Ryan in his home studio where they discuss Ryan’s career success, goals, community leadership, social justice, and his contributions to the Rochester International Jazz Fest.
Ryan is an extremely passionate, nationally endorsed performer who works with D’Angelico Guitars, Curt Mangan Strings, & Godin Guitar. He is a multifaceted musician, composer, producer, audio engineer, and educator, focusing on bridging education, musical arts, and social justice to a global level.
Ryan has composed eight albums of original music, within the jazz / funk fusion, jazz and neo-soul categories and can be heard on nationally acclaimed records by artists such as Cabo Frio and Reliably Bad. For over 10 years, he has been a formal music educator within the Rochester City School District and is a founder of the district’s first-ever musical theater company, ROC City Players.
Ryan is a highly educated musician, who has a Bachelor’s degree in Music from Empire State University, a Master’s in Music Theory from SFA University of Texas, a Master’s in Music Education from the University at Buffalo and is ABD in his Doctorate in Music Education from Boston University. His doctoral work focuses on curriculum reform and social justice within the scope of anti-racism and inclusionary activism within Western music practices.
When he is not busy with scholarly writing, education, studio recording, touring, or being a face in festivals like The Rochester International Jazz Fest, he dedicates much of his creative efforts towards his original bands Escape Terrain and Berhrcat.
To experience the Rochester International Jazz Fest free Open Jam check out info here. Bring your instrument, bring a friend, and support Vanni’s by buying a drink. You never know who you may meet at these special events. Last year, we met Trombone Shorty!
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