Scott Johnson – Junior Pedagogue

Violin | Viola | Cello

A native of Southern California, Scott grew up in Bountiful, Utah, where he began playing the violin at the age of ten. He recently completed his Master’s of Music in Violin Performance degree at California State University: Northridge (CSUN) under the tutelage of Lorenz Gamma. He was awarded a scholarship and position in the CSUN Honors Quartet for both years, serving as both first and second violin. In the CSUN orchestra, he often served as principal second violin, associate concertmaster, as well as concertmaster for Mozart’s The Magic Flute. He received his Bachelor’s of Music degree from San Diego State University, studying with Pei-Chun Tsai and Isaac Allen. Scott has also been privileged to perform in master classes given by Dylana Jenson, and to study extensively with Michael Tseitlin, both of whom made significant contributions to his musicianship.

Throughout this time, from before music school and beyond, Scott has enjoyed wide ranging performance opportunities. From playing over a thousand shows on an electric-acoustic violin in a rock band, to working as a soloist with choirs, to freelance performances in the San Diego and Los Angeles area, including with the San Diego Master Chorale and LA-based Tonality, Scott most enjoys finding intimate ways to connect with his audiences to create meaningful and lasting experiences. No stranger to recording, his most recent endeavor, the album Band of Wizards released in early 2025, with a sophomore recording completed in October of the same year. Addison Bennet, Aidan Neuman, and Zack Cruz bring their talents to create a unique listening experience that combines whimsical compositions, cooperative storytelling, and varied genres to the album. In addition to playing with CYAS, Scott is also a member of the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra (CHICO).

Scott has also been a dedicated teacher and enjoys working with many students, helping to guide them in their individual journeys toward mastery of violin playing by passing on what was given to him by his own mentors. He currently works in the Oak Park school district as a music coach, and has a private studio in Thousand Oaks.