Musician Johnson to perform at Augusta UUCC fundraiser

AUGUSTA — The Unitarian Universalist Community Church will host a one-hour fundraiser, “Original Compositions and Jazz Standards,” at 4 p.m., Saturday, March 10, at the church, 69 Winthrop St.
James Johnson, composer and percussionist, will be the featured performer.

Johnson earned a master’s degree at California Institute of the Arts and performs chamber, jazz and world music. He has studied under artists such as Alexander LePak, Richie LePore, John Bergamo, Ed Saindon, David Johnson, Dave Samuels, Bobbie Bradford, Tony Miceli and a master class with Gary Burton.
Johnson composed a piece for solo vibraphone, “Lullaby for Judy,” and a small band/ensemble, “The Fog Meets the Storm,” which will soon be published. Last year, his percussion ensemble piece, “In the Night,” was premiered by the Southern Utah University Percussion Ensemble, directed by Dr. Lynn Vartan.
He directs the music department at Erskine Academy in South China, where he explores all styles of music and ensembles with the students. Johnson composes and arranges many of his ensembles. He lives in Hallowell with his wife, Bridget Convey, who will accompany him on the piano; they will be joined by Erskine Academy music students.
The UUCC suggests a $10 per person donation. For more information, call 207-622-3232. Inclement weather date is 4 p.m. Saturday, March 17.

PHOTO: James Johnson (Submitted photo)