"I've been with the Georgia Brass Band since it was a list of potential members scribbled on a napkin. I was the one doing the scribbling."
In addition to being one of the guys who came up with the idea of a British brass band in Atlanta and implemented that idea, Joe Johnson has been conducting the band, handling its finances, setting up the gigs, and auditioning the players over the last ten years. Joe is also the guy who gets to bask in glory whenever the band performs - even though he's basically just waving a stick at it. ;-)
We like him anyway, and asked him to tell everybody a bit more about himself.
Are you married? Any kids?
Yes - I've been married to Sharon for 16 years and have one son, Samuel (7).
How long have you been involved with brass banding? What got you started? What about it appeals to you?
I've been involved with brass bands for 32 years. I first experienced brass bands at a summer music camp in Massachusetts. I played in bands continuously for the next 19 years and after a few years' hiatus formed the GBB in 1999. The camaraderie of being in a brass band is unlike anything I have experienced in any other type of ensemble. Many of my best friends and best life experiences have come about through brass banding.
What is your musical background? Schools? Degrees?
I received degrees in brass performance and music education from Boston University.
How do you kick back and relax?
I enjoy camping and traveling with my family.
Do you have a favorite brass band composer/song?
I can't limit this to one composer or work. At the risk of excluding someone, I will go on a limb and say that my favorite brass band composers are Eric Ball and Edward Gregson. Favorite works include Connotations, Dances and Arias, Rococo Variations, Journey Into Freedom, and - of course - Resurgam.
Other than music, what interests do you have?
I am a huge New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox fan.
Have you always lived in Atlant?
Born and raised in the Boston area prior to moving to Atlanta in 1988.
If you could play any instrument - but only one - which one would you pick?
The best one: trumpet.
