Local composer Paul Kelvin Johnson steps into the role of Composer-in-Residence, continuing the PSO’s longstanding commitment to nurturing emerging talent and bringing new music to North Texas audiences. Paul K. Johnson is a Dallas-based composer of concert music for orchestras, wind ensembles, and chamber ensembles. Drawing inspiration from English and Japanese composers, his work is distinguished by clear formal design, motivic development, and sacred inspiration rooted in biblical themes. He is currently pursuing a Master of Music in Composition and Music Theory Pedagogy at Southern Methodist University, where he is a recipient of the Meadows Artistic Scholarship.

Originally from South Holland, Illinois, Johnson began studying piano at age six and discovered a passion for composition at twelve. His current projects include a Symphony for Strings, repertoire for younger ensembles, and original jazz compositions for combo and big band. After completing his graduate studies, he hopes to pursue a doctorate in composition with a long-term goal of establishing a composition program at an HBCU.

Maestro Guzmán has commissioned Johnson to write a short “Overture Celebration” celebrating Guzmán’s 43-plus year career as Music Director. The piece will debut at the March 20, 2027, concert at St. Andrews Methodist Church. Johnson has also been commissioned to arrange holiday music for the Home for the Holidays concert in December 2026.