We lost our dear friend, colleague and teacher, Dorothea Johanson, on November 8th, 2019. Dorothea supported Cassa from its beginnings in 1993, first as a teacher sending students to the programs, then as a volunteer photographer and videographer, leading the field. Later, she became a popular instructor, and she would be particularly memorable to those who had the chance to work with her on C.S. Theme and Variations. In 1996, Dorothea became an original board member. She spearheaded the Retirement Residence Recitals as our Special Projects Convenor and was our Interim Treasurer for many years. She was voted as an Emeritus Board Member after her health forced her to stop working. A big thank you goes to Dorothea for everything she did for us - for who she was as a personal example of elegance and excellence, and for the great blessing we all received just by knowing her.
Board member Janice Dahlberg wrote this about Dorothea in 2009:
"Dorothea Johanson" was a name with which I became acquainted long before I met the person. The notoriety came from her reputation as a very fine, gifted, talented, and desirable piano teacher, much sought after by discerning parents who wanted the very best music education for their children - and sometimes the best instruction for themselves.
So – in 1990, when it was my turn to be President of Calgary Branch, her name came forward as one who would be an excellent member of the executive. Happily, for me, she agreed to the position of social convener. Oh good, I thought, I will finally get to meet this amazing person.
We have been friends and colleagues ever since. We have shared many adventures – the very first Esther Honens Piano Competition, the first Calgary Arts Summer School workshops and camps, and the CFMTA 2005 Conference Committee are some of the highlights. We have had many fun and chatty rides to Red Deer together as we served on the ARMTA Provincial Board and were active participants in the beginnings of the Alberta Music Education Committee. We collaborated with buying awards and special gifts for deserving colleagues.
Dorothea has been Calgary Branch President, ARMTA Provincial President, and now represents Alberta as 2nd CFMTA delegate. We are in very good hands with her representation on our national board.
She has represented ARMTA as a fair, congenial, strong, tactful and gracious leader. Her spirit of volunteerism and support for the teachers is unparalleled. I am lucky to have her as a friend, colleague, advisor and co-conspirator. She is what the ideal piano teacher is all about.
It is a pleasure to honour my good friend, Dorothea Johanson."