In this new series, we get to hear from the musicians themselves. This month, I have interviewed Manchester multi-instrumentalist and virtual session musician Dominik Johnson.
Dominik Johnson
Dominik is multi-instrumentalist, session player, composer and producer based in Manchester and specialises in plucked instruments. His passion is creating Instrumental World Music for Film, TV and Media productions and creates 'Library Music' for one of the top production music companies, such as London's 'Felt Music Library'.
1. How long have you been recording and what inspired you to get into music?
I've been recording professionally, both as an recording artist and session player, for around five years now. My passion lies in recording productions rather than performances, but I love collaborations with other musicians and producers in the studio. My early years of music began with a keen interest in the Spanish/Classical guitar and the Renaissance lute. It's from this repertoire an that my interest in 'World Music' evolved.
2. What or who are your influences?
My musical influences range from all kinds of traditional folk music from all over the world...
I take a keen interest on Spanish, Indian, Latin, Mediterranean and Chinese traditional music, but I'm not a purist. I like to create my own style using influences from these traditions. One of my biggest musical influences is Julian Bream - I consider him to be one the finest musicians and spanish guitarists around - I'm surprised how many UK 'spanish guitarists' have never heard of him!
3. What are your all-time favourite albums?
Titi Robin - Un ciel de cuivre
Julian Bream - The Woods So Wild
Bassekou Kouyaté & Ngoni Ba- Segu Blue
4. What are you listening to right now?
I'm currently listening to a lot of pipa music from Liu Fang.
(Click here to hear a pipa solo by Liu Fang)
(Click here to hear a pipa solo by Liu Fang)
5. Have any upcoming gigs/shows we should know about?
I very rarely do any live performances as I've not found the right musicians yet to be on stage with. I'm also never quite happy with the sound quality of a lot of venues.
But I have been involved with a World Music project called 'Ano Throsko' run by Greek artist Niko Paterakis. The show is on May 7th 2011 in Manchester and it involves over 30 musicians, playing all kinds of instruments. If you have an interest in fusion music - the show is for you.
You can hear Dominik talk about his music here:
The Multi-Instrumentalist from Marinos Bebop on Vimeo.
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