Craig Hella Johnson is a composer, arranger, and GRAMMY®-winning conductor whose work is known for emotional depth, stylistic range, and a distinctive sense of musical storytelling. As an arranger, he has developed a signature “collage” approach, weaving together poetry, sacred and secular traditions, and classical, contemporary, traditional, and popular styles.
His concert-length oratorio Considering Matthew Shepard remains one of his most widely recognized works and, in its 10th anniversary year, continues to be performed by choirs across the United States and internationally. An important part of Johnson’s artistry is his work with contemporary composers, shepherding new music from creation to performance and helping audiences connect deeply with the voices of our time, including composers such as Joby Talbot and Mark Buller. For decades, he has also personally shaped Conspirare Christmas into a beloved annual tradition, curating each season’s program with distinctive repertoire, guest artists, and arrangements that audiences return to year after year.
