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World-Renowned Violinist to Bring Musical Journey to Heritage Center

By University Relations
Gareth Johnson

DUBUQUE, Iowa - Gareth Johnson & His Evolution Band, presented by the Dubuque Arts Council, will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, February 17, 2024, in John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center, University of Dubuque.

A talented savant with the violin, Gareth Johnson has turned his over two decades long classical training into a sound that is totally new to the hip-hop, R&B, and pop music genre. Johnson, whose love for the beautiful sounds of the violin came after seeing Itzhak Perlman in concert, has studied classical music since he was 10 years old. He is a world-renowned violinist, master string teacher, and composer whose extraordinary talent crosses all music genres from Rick Ross to Stevie Wonder and Bruno Mars, as well as Johnny Cash to Metallica and Guns N' Roses, right into Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee's "Despacito."

Johnson recently released a hip-hop album, titled Evolution, in which he used the blank canvas of hip-hop violin work to create something truly original.

Gareth Johnson & His Evolution Band's performance at the Heritage Center will dazzle audiences with a music journey beginning with classical pieces and transitioning into contemporary music performed by the five-piece band.

Tickets for Gareth Johnson & His Evolution Band are $30 to $45 plus fees. Additionally, purchase one adult ticket, get up to two free student tickets using the code VIOLIN, while supplies last. Tickets can be purchased from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 90 minutes prior to events at the Farber Box Office, Heritage Center, University of Dubuque, 2255 Bennett Street; by calling 563.585.SHOW; or by visiting www.dbq.edu/HeritageCenter.

The Dubuque Arts Council is generously offering University of Dubuque affiliate discounts and the Heritage Performing Arts Loyalty System (H-PALS) may be used to earn rewards with ticket purchases.

Gareth Johnson & His Evolution Band's performance is made possible by the generous support of Tim and Christine Conlon, Conlon Construction Company, Humanities Iowa, the City of Dubuque, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

In addition to the public performance, Gareth Johnson will be spending two weeks performing for local students and hosting a master class for members of the Dubuque Youth Symphony.

Gareth Johnson & His Evolution Band is a bonus event hosted by Dubuque Arts Council at Heritage Center.

About Dubuque Arts Council
Founded in 1969, the Dubuque Arts Council has been a cultural pillar in the community, dedicated to educating and entertaining. Through diverse, multi-disciplinary, artistic, and educational opportunities, the council continues to enrich the lives of residents and elevate the cultural landscape in the Dubuque area. Learn more at dubuqueartscouncil.com.