Dr. Don Johns is in demand as a performer and educator in the greater DC metro area. He is a regular substitute musician with Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Richmond Symphony Orchestra, and various groups around the region. He is been principal timpani for Apollo Orchestra since 2014. He also plays with the Gateways Festival Orchestra and the Colour of Music Orchestra – two groundbreaking ensembles highlighting black classical musicians.
He is the Founder and Director of the DMV Music Academy, a non-profit working to expose, engage, and enrich young people through all forms of instrumental music education.
Don holds a DMA from Shenandoah Conservatory along with a MM and BM from University of Maryland. He also serves as the President of the Maryland/Delaware Chapter of the Percussive Arts Society.
He is endorsed by Yamaha, Innovative Percussion, and Black Swamp Percussion.