Conductor / Pianist
Double Bassist
Craig Randal Johnson is a Minneapolis-based conductor, piano recitalist, and double bassist. An active teacher and accompanist, Craig Randal Johnson’s work and interests have taken him across the United States and to several European countries, performing and promoting 20th century and new works to which audiences can find a connection, in addition to standard and popular repertoire. Recent conducting engagements include 2007 and 2009 'Concerts for Lake Superior' featuring the new Boreal Chamber Orchestra in Marquette MI, the FinnFest 2007 (OH) and 2005 (MI) Symphony Concerts, the Southwest Minnesota Symphony, the Marquette Symphony (MI), the Superior Festival Orchestra (as Music Director), and the Arius Chamber Orchestra (MN).
Craig has recently appeared with Finnish baritone Esa Ruuttunen, presenting three recitals in Finland as well as at Finn Grand Fest 2010 in Sault Ste. Marie, Canada. Solo piano appearances and recitals include the 2009 Freiwilligenzentrum Jubilee program in Hannover, Germany, at Finnfest 2008 in Duluth, in Thousand Oaks CA at the Seventh Nordic Spirit Symposium, at the Hartt School in Hartford CT, and at Southwest State University in Marshall MN.
Craig Randal Johnson will conduct the 'New World' premiere of Jukka Linkola's opera 'Rockland' at the Pine Mountain Music Festival in July, 2011, as well as organize a festival concert for Finnfest 2011 in San Diego.