Aaron Johnson

Aaron Johnson is Associate Professor and Chair of the Music Department at the University of Pittsburgh. His research explores jazz's sociocultural dimensions through media, technology, and race, with publications on jazz radio, film music, and African American masculinity. A former telecommunications engineer, he performed professionally with Charles Tolliver, Aretha Franklin, and Jay-Z before transitioning to academia.

Research Areas: African American radio history, jazz patronage systems, and music in oppressive media structures. Current book project examines jazz's relationship with U.S. broadcasting infrastructures.

Teaching: Leads courses in jazz arranging, music and race, Black radio history, and film scoring. Supervises ensemble work and interdisciplinary projects.