ADAM JOHNSON
Composer in Residence
Pronoun He / Him
Adam Johnson is an extraordinary composer, pianist, and conductor whose artistry and musical versatility have captivated audiences worldwide. Since spring 2022, he has been the first Composer in Residence at Eliot Smith Dance (ESD), working in close collaboration with choreographer Eliot Smith to create dynamic and evocative soundscapes for the company’s productions.
Known for his dazzling range of virtuoso piano repertoire, Adam Johnson has built a reputation as a unique and charismatic performer. His concerts, which span genres from crossover classics to modern instrumental favorites, are consistently sell-out events in London and across Europe. Critics have hailed his performances as “A Revelation” (The Telegraph), praising his ability to blend technical brilliance with an unmatched showmanship.
In addition to his performing career, Adam is the Founder, Artistic Director, and Principal Conductor of The Northern Lights Symphony Orchestra. His contributions to the world of classical music have been recognized with prestigious honors, including his election as a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Musicians in 2011, and more recently, his membership in the Royal Society of Musicians. In 2019, he was awarded the Freedom of the City of London, further cementing his status in the music world.
As a composer, Adam has garnered significant acclaim for his work. His award-winning album Savage Piano, recorded at Abbey Road Studios and described by BBC Radio as “Cinematic and Emotional” (2020), showcases his ability to create deeply moving and atmospheric music. In addition to his album, Adam has released the EP Keys to the Garden (2020) and his new single Frith (After Janáček), further demonstrating his breadth as a composer.
Adam's contributions to ESD have been profound, composing music for several major productions, including Seacole + Nightingale (2020), TroY (2020), Homecoming (2021), LIFE (2021), HUMAN (2023), The Three Jolly Ghosts of Christmas (2023), and Whippets for PITMAN (2024). His compositions have been integral to the company’s work, contributing to its distinctive style and emotional depth. Additionally, Adam has created musical pieces for ESD's Education and Beyond outreach, helping to bring dance and music to a broader audience.
Through his wide-ranging contributions as a composer, performer, and artistic leader, Adam Johnson continues to enrich the cultural landscape, leaving a lasting impact on the worlds of classical music, dance, and beyond.
