Paul Johnson has been serving in the church since the age of 16. He got his first job as an organist/accompanist the week he got his drivers license. Since then he has served in a variety of positions: Music Director/Organist, Worship Arts Director, Worship Arts Pastor, Vocal and Handbell Choir Director, and Chiildrens vocal or handchime choir.
Paul attended Roosevelt University, studying Jazz Composition, where he studied with Dr. Edward Baker, and also jazz/improvisation with Dr. Alan Swain of DePaul University. From 2011-2014, he studied with the Artist-in-Residence at Olivet University, Ovid Young. As part of Neilson and Young, Ovid toured the world three times. The first time hearing Paul play an improvisation on a hymn, Ovid stated, "There is no one who could teach you to do what you just did. You truly have a God-given talent." During the time Ovid mentored Paul, he helped him sharpen and focus his abilities.
Paul also was hired by Plymouth Place after the Pandemic to "re-start" their choir, and held that position for three years.
Paul believes that the primary goal of a Music Director in the church is to get as many people as possible involved in playing or singing -- whether it be part of a vocal or handbell choir, or singing solos/ duets, or playing an instrument. It can be an amazing experience offering your musical abilities to God during worship. He would like as many as possible to experience the power of the Holy Spirit through music.
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