AFA News

Cellist Daphnee Johnson has been a Faculty Artist for both AFA’s Chamber Music Academy and Summer Music Festival. In addition to being a Suzuki Cello instructor, Daphnee is the co-founder of Divisi Strings, and on strings faculty at Epsicopal High School and Parker Elementary.

What was your introduction to music?

I grew up in the church as my father has been my pastor most of my life. I was introduced to music merely by singing in the children’s choir in church and then soon after that started piano at the age of 5. I studied piano for many years, up through high school. I was introduced to cello in elementary school while living in Anchorage, AK however, we soon moved to San Antonio, TX. My father was called to pastor a church there so we were starting all over again. I was again introduced to the cello in middle school around the age of 12 where I quickly knew that I loved the instrument.

When did you know you wanted to be a music educator?

In 2001, I was asked to be an intern for the Youth Orchestras of San Antonio (YOSA) Summer Camp. I shadowed the main theory teacher and I actually got to work with some of the cello students that summer. It was such a great experience! I believe I knew that summer that I wanted to do more teaching but with a focus on cellos. I really enjoyed watching the students progress so quickly over the few weeks of camp and seeing how excited they were about music and their accomplishments in such a short time. I continued to teach at the camp for another 17 years, becoming the head of the cello faculty for many years.

Do you have a favorite genre you like to perform or program?

I actually don’t have a favorite genre to perform. I love ALL music. I, of course, was classically trained so classical music will always be a favorite, however, working with Divisi Strings, I have become well versed in pop, rock, and hip hop which I also love!

What would be your advice to a young musician thinking about a career in the arts?

Most string players have the idea in their heads that the only way to be classified as a “good” musician is to get into a professional orchestra. I would encourage young musicians to explore all the options of being in the arts – not just performing in an orchestra.

What do you enjoy most about teaching and performing?

I enjoy watching the kids grow over the years as a person and on their instruments. The joy they get when they accomplish what they’ve set out to do – that’s what makes me happy! I enjoy getting to make music with my friends on a regular basis. Performing with Divisi Strings every week is so much fun! There’s never a dull moment!

What would you say to your 13-year-old self?

Stay true to yourself and keep your focus. You’ll be great!!