Dr. Karen Johnson, Soprano, studied at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where she received the Bachelor of Music, Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees under the tutelage of Dr. Willis Patterson.  Dr. Johnson has received numerous musical accolades, including: First Place honors in the 2001 Boyer Concerto/Aria Competition; First Place in the Leontyne Price Vocal Competition, Midwest Regional Division; First Place in the University of Michigan’s Concerto Competition, Voice Division; and being named a finalist in the William C. Byrd Young Artist Competition and a semi-finalist in the 2005 American Traditions Competition.  Her opera credits include Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Poulenc’s Dialogues des Carmelites, Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, Menotti’s Amahl and the Night Visitors and the world premier of Ainadamar by Osvaldo Golijov. Frequently requested as a recitalist for both classical and popular sacred repertoires, Dr. Johnson has enjoyed solo performances in cities throughout the United States.  Her performances are also featured on three recordings, “Fare Ye Well,”  “Artsongs of Black American Composers” and “The New Negro Spiritual.”   A native of North Carolina, Dr. Johnson has served on the faculties of Alcorn State University in Mississippi and Dillard University in New Orleans, LA, where she was Chairperson of the Department of Music.  She is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.