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.
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.
