Album Notes

Five Pieces are a collection of John Johnstone's guitar compositions from 2005-2007. They have a melodic and lyrical style that easily move to more angular and dramatic sections. Evocative moods rich in emotion and passion are created in each work.Though he is steeped in the classical tradition, influences of jazz and folk styles are evident in these pieces. The music at times seems technically challenging but there is never a sense of musical intent being sacrificed for the sake of technical display. These original compositions offer the listener a unique sound and are the synthesis of the authors varied musical experience.

John Johnstone divides his time between performing, composing, teaching and recording. He has performed with the Portland Symphony Orchestra, the PSO chamber ensemble, and in numerous solo and chamber concerts at such places as the Olin Arts Center, Corthell Hall and Kresge Auditorium. He is on the guitar faculty of Bowdoin College and Portland Conservatory of Music.

Some people say about John Johnstone's music:

These guitar compositions are very melodic and well thought out. Beautiful playing and beautiful compositions. Dr. Francis M. D'Amico, Composer

In Five Pieces, John Johnstone blends the old with the new to create his own style. The musicianship is excellent throughout. Neil James, guitarist/violinist

John Johnstone has written this set of Five Pieces in a manner that is highly guitaristic and enjoyable to play. He brings characteristic elements of the guitar's cultural roots including tremolo, arpeggios, and Brazilian rhythms into a modern idiom. The result is a predominantly tonal and harmonically varied set of evocative miniatures. Christopher Kane, guitarist

Five Pieces are well crafted works, that journey through introspective, dynamic and cinematic sonorities.
Douglas Lakota, musician