Richard Johnson
Classical & Jazz Guitarist
Solo or Ensemble Engagements
for Corporate Parties, Weddings, & other Events.
Call (316) 263-7561
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Richard Johnson is a seasoned performer who has appeared as soloist with many orchestras throughout the country. He began his studies with great impresario and teacher Walter A. Fritschy. He was one of the select students to perform at the famous class of 1965, in Santiago de Compostela, Spain with Andres Segovia. He then studied for three years with Oscar Ghiglia in Paris. He has taught in both the San Francisco and Kansas City Conservatories. His own students include Ray Reussner and Charles King. Johnson, Fritschy, and Joe Cozad are the original founders of the Kansas City Guitar Society. He currently maintains a residence in Kansas City, but has strong ties to Wichita, Kansas. He has long performed in its night scene, as a soloist and as the leader of various ensembles. He has been a long standing member and supporter of the Wichita Guitar Society. He has been closely associated with Irma Wassall since early days as the Wichita Society of the Classical Guitar. Johnson now focuses his energy on composing and arranging music for the Jazz & Latin mediums. His performance with Monte Muza featured a sophisticated blend of original compositions and arrangements on steel and nylon strings. It was one of the highlights of its 2004 Jazz Matinée series. He is very pleased to be currently working with bassist Roberto Bernardinello.
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Roberto Bernardinello, Richard Johnson and Roger Lewis
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For Solo Engagements Richard Johnson
Prefers Ray Reussner Classical Guitars.
With Ray Reussner in 1965
 Richard is available for duo performances with Monte Muza, well known in the KC area as "The Jazz Guru." A wonderful improvisor and performer, he performs regularly with the Monte Muza Guitar Quartet. He has also performed with many other great artists including Eddie Vinson, Cannonball Adderley, Dizzy Gillespie, Clark Terry, Phil Upchurch, Pat Metheny, Jimmy Heath, Frank Smith and many others. He was a major influence and mentor to Pat Metheny. When he is not performing, Monte maintains a full time teaching schedule.
"Richard Johnson and Monte Muza are True Masters of Nylon and Steel. They Create a New Twist In Jazz." - John Francis: Director of Wichita Guitar Society
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Miki Masuda
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Kirk Sorensen
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| Richard Johnson often performs a unique blend of Latin Jazz & Classic Stylings with musicians such as Chromatic Harmonica Virtuoso Kirk Sorensen and Fretless Bass Wonderkind Miki Masuda. |
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