Chris Johnson earned his Master's Degree in Composition and Contemporary Music from the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM), UK. He studied composition with Professor Adam Gorb, analysis with Professor Douglas Jarman, and conducting with Clark Rundell.

A published composer, Chris' work is featured in the British Music Collection. In 2013, he was accepted into the Composers Society in Norway, where he has lived since 2007.

Chris is widely regarded as an arranger, known for his versatility in writing for diverse ensembles and styles. His catalog includes over 100 arrangements for Symphony Orchestra, Brass & Wind Bands, Choirs, and Vocal Groups, with several recorded and broadcast on Norwegian TV.

Committed to expanding access to new music and high-quality music education, Chris has written curricula, developed large-scale collaborative projects, and worked extensively as a conductor and educator, mentoring students, amateur musicians, and young professionals.

He is the Conductor and Artistic Leader of Orkester 20:20, a Vestfold-based ensemble of professional musicians exploring the fusion of diverse contemporary styles. Their debut recording, Awakenings, featuring Chris' compositions and arrangements, will be released in Spring 2025.