LCMS Presents Doug Johnson, Piano

For Immediate Release: January 20, 2014

DOUG JOHNSON, OF LOVERBOY FAME, RETURNS TO LCMS TO PERFORM HIS CLASSICAL COMPOSITIONS

LANGLEY, BC – Langley Community Music School (LCMS) welcomes the return of pianist Doug Johnson, of Loverboy fame, to the Rose Gellert Hall on February 2, 2014. Coffee and commentary are hosted before the concert with the school’s artistic director of concerts Elizabeth Bergmann at 3:00 p.m., followed by the performance at 4:00 p.m.

“It’s very satisfying to look out into the audience and see people singing and dancing to Loverboy’s music,” says pianist Doug Jonhson. “But I’m really looking forward to playing with the fine musicians

I’ve invited to perform my compositions at this intimate performance. Obviously a completely different vibe – but for me, at least, a real thrill to perform. You don’t want to miss it!”

Johnson will be joined by Mark Ferris, violin; Reilley West, viola; Paolo Bortolussi, flute; and Finn Manniche, cello. The program will include a variety of works for piano and instruments, as well as works for solo piano.  States Johnson, “I’ll be performing a manic solo piano piece called “Sugar” that was inspired by the transformation of my grandkids after birthday cake. I’ve heard it compared to Flight of the Bumblebee.” 

Continues Johnson about his inspiration and what to expect on February 2, “You’ll hear a lot of influences in my music. Overall, it is classical – influenced by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy to name a few.  Bach and Mozart were my first musical/artistic inspirations – perfectly logical and sublime. Then Beethoven and Chopin for the passion, followed by Debussy and Ravel for the Impressionism, and “prog” rock (ELP, Yes, even Rush) for the complexity and virtuosity.”  Jazz has also had an impact on Johnson’s work, “I met Oscar Peterson one year at the Junos and that was one of the biggest thrills of my life to simply shake his hand and look into his eyes and say thank you for the inspiration.”

Doug Johnson is known internationally as the original keyboardist for the band, Loverboy, one of Canada’s most successful rock bands. Doug is also the talent behind numerous musical composition projects that include film, television, radio, song writing, and musical theatre. He obtained a classical piano degree (ARCT) and silver medal from the Royal Conservatory of Toronto in 1975 and is a graduate (1991) of the Film Music Institute of L.A.

Tickets are available at the box office and by calling 604.534. 2848 for $15 Adults, $13 Seniors, and $10 Students. The Rose Gellert Hall is located at 4899 207 Street in Langley. 

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Media Contacts:
Meagan Baker
Communications Consultant
604.351.0525
mb.baker@telus.net

Carolyn Granholm
Assistant Principal
Langley Community Music School
604.534.2848
development@langleymusic.com