Keith Johnson (he/him) is a percussionist who plays rhythms from Africa and the African diaspora and a craftsman of traditional instruments such as blekete drums, shekeres, gourd rattles from Togo, and the 21-string kora harp, as well of as traditional dress such as hats and headdresses. Johnson has performed in Arizona schools for three decades, using music and storytelling to share traditional African Folklore. Growing up in Washington, DC, he was introduced to music and culture from his parents and from attending events like the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which exposed him to various African cultures. He has studied with master drummers and musicians such as Yacub T Addy, C.K. Ganyo, Kendra Sissoko, Arouna Diarra, and Babatunde Olatunji. Through Artists At Work, Johnson will work with apprentice Rohan Williams to teach the artform of making and playing drums and other instruments.

Keith is working with students at HIRSCH Academy and the Paiute Neighborhood Center City of Scottsdale Social Services to compose and perform their own original music. Understanding the enriching skills and knowledge acquired through the study of music, Keith encourages his students to come together to work in harmony, melody and rhythm.

“By understanding the contribution music makes to culture and history, students are better prepared to live and work in multicultural settings.”