Forrest Johnston, Assistant Principal Trumpet
Nancy F. Seeley Chair
A native of Northern Virginia, Forrest Johnston began playing the trumpet at age 6, studying with his father. Prior to enrolling in the Colburn School in Los Angeles in 2019, he participated in a wide range of local, national and international ensembles and competitions, winning multiple first prizes in the National Trumpet Competition, as well as solo competitions sponsored by the International Trumpet Guild. As a member of the National Youth Orchestra, he performed in multiple concerts throughout Asia and Europe under the direction of Michael Tilson Thomas and Sir Antonio Pappano. At the Colburn School, Forrest continued his musical studies under the tutelage of James Wilt and served as the principal trumpet of the American Youth Symphony and California Young Artists Orchestra, in addition to performing regularly with the Colburn Orchestra.
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The facts:
I grew up in Northern Virginia before moving to Los Angeles to study at the Colburn Conservatory.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I was inspired by my father to start playing the trumpet. Growing up, I constantly heard him practicing and naturally wanted to do the same.
What is challenging about playing your instrument?
One aspect of playing the trumpet I find challenging is the need to master the many different keys and styles of trumpets used in classical music. This requires me to incorporate the different trumpets into my practicing so that I am always ready to perform on any of them.
What are your favorite compositions?
My favorite composer for solo trumpet is Vladimir Peskin, especially his Romance for Trumpet and Piano and his Concerto No. 3. My favorite orchestral works include Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony and Mahler’s Fifth Symphony, which make great use of the trumpet’s wide range of dynamics and tone colors.
What have you been listening to recently?
I like to listen to a mix of genres and styles of music. Most recently, I have particularly enjoyed country music and jazz.
Are there other musicians in your immediate family?
Yes, although they do not play professionally, both my father and younger sister play trumpet.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love spending time outdoors, especially when playing sports. Although I typically prefer to play basketball and ultimate frisbee, I started playing pickleball this summer after learning that Naples is the “Pickleball Capital of the World.” I also enjoy watching sports, mostly basketball and football.