معرفی
Eric A. Johnson serves as Professor and Coordinator of Choral Activities at Northern Illinois University's School of Music within the College of Visual and Performing Arts. He is the founding artistic director of Cor Cantiamo, a professional ensemble recognized for 'choral artistry at its finest' (Lauridsen).
Johnson holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) from the University of Illinois. His educational foundation supports his dual expertise in performance and pedagogy, shaping his approach to choral training and artistic leadership.
A dedicated innovator in choral music, Johnson's work integrates contemporary composition with social justice themes through interdisciplinary programming. His artistic vision encompasses:
- World premieres of new choral works with leading composers
- Socially conscious concert events addressing current issues
- Historical and modern choral literature interpretation
- Professional-level ensemble training
His exceptional contributions are recognized through prestigious awards including the 2019 National Endowment for the Arts Artworks grant and the 2020 Harold Decker Award from the Illinois American Choral Directors Association.
Johnson mentors students through NIU's choral program while preparing ensembles for collaborations with professional orchestras. His leadership extends to national conventions where his groups consistently perform, providing students with career-defining performance opportunities at venues including Lincoln Center.
Internationally active, Johnson maintains significant artistic relationships across five continents, conducting at Cambridge University's Clare College, cathedrals in England, and institutions in China, Tanzania, and Brazil. His Cor Cantiamo ensemble serves as both a professional artistic outlet and a model for student ensembles.
