Singer proves that ‘girls rock’

Published 5:35 am Thursday, December 11, 2008

Johanna wrote her first song at the age of 9. By the time she was 20, she had released her first album of original music, studied songwriting with Chris Williamson and Tret Fure, musical improvisation with jazz singer Rhiannon and rhythm-master Keith Terry, performed in musical theater, rock and world-beat bands, gospel and women’s community choirs, improvisational acting and singing troupes, social action theater groups, films (including Gus Van Sant’s Sundance Award-winning “Elephant”), and countless festivals, political rallies, clubs, coffee houses, colleges and universities. In 2005 she completed her bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies with a focus on diversity education and a minor in theater with a focus on social action and improvisation. Her music has been influenced by Ani Difranco, Sarah McLachlan, Tori Amos, Carol King, Grace Slick, Tracy Chapman, Bette Midler, the Indigo Girls, the Beatles and Motown.

Johanna will perform originals in a wide range of styles at 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at Fort George Brewery and Public House, 1483 Duane St. There is no cover charge.

“Johanna delivers her heartfelt songs with passion and profound musicianship. She has a stunning stylistic range, and a voice that never quits.” -Mina Carson, co-author, “Girls Rock: 50 Years of Women in Rock and Roll”