Pittsburgh mourns the loss of Dr. James T. Johnson, Jr.
We are saddened to hear of the passing of Afro American Music Institute’s Co-Founder, Dr. James T. Johnson, Jr.
Dr. Johnson died unexpectedly Monday at the age of 76, survived by his wife and AAMI co-founder Pamela J. Johnson and his five children.
Dr. James T Johnson, Jr., CEO of Pittsburgh’s Afro American Music Institute (AAMI) Inc., graduated from Grambling State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in music education with emphasis on the violin in 1972. He earned his master’s degree in 1982 and his PhD in ethnomusicology from the University of Pittsburgh in 1988.
Dr. Johnson travelled the world both as a jazz musician and music educator for over forty-five years. As a jazz pianist he performed with several world-renowned jazz artists. He has also been on the part-time faculty of the Community College of Allegheny County, University of Pittsburgh, Carlow University and Duquesne University.
Locally, Dr. Johnson was respected as an educator, mentor and community builder. For 44 years, Homewood’s AAMI has nurtured thousands of musicians, realizing their talent through a curriculum that embraces music throughout the African Diaspora. Generations of musicians have ignited their passions and careers through AAMI’s community, celebrating identity and culture.
Services are scheduled at St. James AME Church, 444 Lincoln Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206. The viewing will be held on Friday, March 27 from 2-8 P.M., and the funeral will follow on Saturday, March 28, with additional viewing hours from 9-11 A.M. and a service at 11 A.M.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to www.afroamericanmusic.org. For more information, please contact AAMI at (412) 241-6775.
