James T. Johnson, former music theory professor and founder of the Afro American Music Institute (AAMI) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, passed away on March 16. He was 76 years old.
A native of Paris, Tennessee, and a trained violinist, Dr. Johnson earned his bachelor’s degree in music education from historically Black Grambling State University in Louisiana. After graduation, he was recruited by jazz musician Nathan Davis to pursue advanced studies at the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned his master’s degree and doctorate in ethnomusicology.
In 1982, Dr. Johnson and his wife, Pamela, co-founded the AAMI. For the past four decades, the institute has provided music instruction, workshops, and performance opportunities for students of all ages.
Alongside his work at the AAMI, Dr. Johnson taught music theory at several institutions in the Pittsburgh area, including the University of Pittsburgh, Carlow University, Duquesne University, and the Community College of Allegheny.
