2023 Adjudicators

Carter Johnson

Classical Piano

Levels 6 to Open (Live)

Praised for his interpretive sensitivity, imaginative programming, and passion for connecting with audiences, Canadian pianist Carter Johnson has established himself as one of his generation’s most exciting pianists. Born on Vancouver Island, Johnson began his private studies with Shelley Roberts before completing a BMus at the University of British Columbia, an MM at the Juilliard School, and a MMA at Yale University, where he will also be commencing his DMA studies this fall. A laureate of several international competitions, his performance career has brought him to over a dozen countries spanning four continents.

Equally at home in the worlds of solo, concerto, chamber, and art song, Johnson has a particular interest in bringing light to the lesser-explored parts of the repertory, most recently championing a collection of works by relatively unknown Polish composers. In addition to the music of J.S. Bach, where he feels most at home, he is a particular advocate for the music of composers such as Schumann, Grieg, Fauré, Ives, Hindemith, Poulenc, Shostakovich, and Messiaen. His secondary instrument work has included studies in oboe, voice, and harpsichord. Trained in elocution as a teenager, Johnson holds an ATCL with distinction in speech and drama from Trinity College London, and he regularly brings this expertise to his recitals in his discussions on the music that is being played — for many audiences, these continue to be a highlight of his performances.

Johnson currently resides in New Haven, Connecticut with his wife Hannah and their young boys Preston and Ambrose, where he maintains a busy schedule as a concert artist and teacher. In his spare time, he and Hannah enjoy both cooking together and watching good films, and spending time outside with their boys enjoying the charms of New England.