BassMargaret Johnston

Bassist Margaret "Peggy" Johnston graduated from Northwestern University with Bachelor of Music. Her major teachers were Warren Benfield and Bertram Turetzky. She received a Fellowship at Berkshire Music Center, Tanglewood, in 1970, and she was a member of Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra 1968-71. From 1971-73 she was a member of the San Antonio Symphony, and she was also in the Santa Fe Opera Orchestra from 1971 to 1972.

Mrs. Johnston has been performing with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra since 1975, and has been a member of the San Diego Opera Orchestra since 1976. She has been a member of the Britt Festival Orchestra since 1989. Peggy Johnston is adjunct faculty in double bass at USD.

GETTING TO KNOW PEGGY JOHNSTON…

Q: What is your favorite period in music? 

A: Late 19th century, early 20th century. 

Q: What are three of your favorite movies? 

A: The Red Shoes, Rebecca, Cabaret

Q: How did you select your instrument? 

A: My dad and the orchestra director decided I would play the bass when I was ten, and I started on a quarter size instrument. They made a good decision! 

Q: What are your favorite travel destinations? 

A: The states of Oregon or New Mexico. I would also love to return to Italy! 

Q: What good books have you read recently? 

A: Pompeii by Robert Harris; The 19th Wife by David Ebershoff; The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Q: Where might you be found on a Saturday night if you’re not performing with the Orchestra? 

A: I might be in LA at an opera, or at a jazz concert, or partying!