Hartley Johnston | 1st Baritone
Hartley reports that he can not remember a time in his life when he could not play
some sort of instrument. A few lessons on trumpet in the eighth grade led
to a position of baritone in the Springdale (Pa.) High School Band. Creation
of a baritoneless danceband that needed a bass player prompted a quick study
of the half position on the bass for polkas and most dance band music of
the 40s. A stint in the Navy during the Korean "Conflict", then a couple
of degrees in music and music education led to teaching for a short while.
From there to a doctorate in Administration and Philosophy and a career
in college administration. Brass Band love was kindled by the first concert
ever given by Bob Bernat and the River City Brass Band. From this emerged
the Allegheny Brass Band. Hartley has been Chairman of the Board for the
11 years of the band's existence. Retirement from college administration
education opened the door to exporting to China which occupies much of his
time now.
Current instrument: Yamaha British Baritone
Mouthpiece: Vincent Bach Megatone 11
Other Instruments: Actually I am trained as a String Bassist. I
can also play any three valve brass instrument and have over the years,
French horn included. Also play a little five string banjo, classical guitar
and at one time in college played bassoon in the IUP symphony (badly out
of their desperation). Played violin (badly) for a while when working as
a school strings teacher. I am self-taught on brass instruments.
Other musical groups: Belong to the AFof M, New Kensington and have
since 1948. Played everything from Jazz, big band, country and western,
recording sessions, polka gigs, chamber music, Broadway shows, church events,
Gilbert and Sullivan, opera and whatever else came along. Liked the Jazz
of the early 50s the best.
Musical influences: Carson Smith (Mulligan bassist), Kenton’s
bassist, Pablo Cassals and my mother. She sang around the house a lot.
Profession: Community college creation and administration. 1st Academic
Dean, CCBeaver C; Founding Pres. Westmoreland Co. CC; Executive Dean of
the Polkton Campus of Anson Tech, (NC); Dean of Instruction, North Campus,
CCAC. (Note: Doctorate in Higher Ed. Admin with a minor in Philosophy.)
Significant Others: Wife, Betty Ann, Two sons: Eric; Writer for the
Japan Times; Keith, band director and music prof at St. Stevens University,
CT; One small cat named Taffy.
Other Recreationa: Sailing, traveling, reading and writing, developing
things some call work. i.e. Bringing together the Allegheny Kiski Valley
Historical Society as a viable community asset.
Favorite Food: Ordinary stuff like meatloaf, mashed potatoes and
green beans. Tried it all over the years and have come back to my culinary
roots.
