Does music have a color?: Steffin Johnson at TEDxDayton

Steffin Johnson began playing piano at the age of 4 and was a yearly participant in the Ohio Music Federation's competitions. He attended Stivers School for the Arts, where he majored in piano and visual arts. He currently studies with Andre Watts at Indiana University, Jacobs School of Music. He is in his second year as an adjunct piano faculty member at Stivers School for the Arts; a member on the Citizens' Advisory Committee for WDPR 88.1-FM, Dayton Public Radio; and is a teacher in the Music Mentors program at Central State University. Most recently, he won the 2011 Wright State University Presidential Commendation for Excellence in Co-Curricular Activities.

Steffin Johnson spoke about his experiences in his musical career and in breaking stereotypes, in regard to himself (because of his race) and the music he plays (classical, not jazz). Steffin also shared a little about his difficulties to show the importance of hard work. By showing the importance of determination and a love for what you do, Steffin hopes to inspire others to continue their pursuit of their dreams.

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)