Katrina is a rock guitarist who has taken lessons from internationally known guitarists Michael Angelo Batio and Gary Hoey. She attended the Wisconsin Conservatory where she studied classical and rock guitar. Katrina is endorsed by Dean Guitars, Dime Amplification, and Luna Guitars. She has toured with regional bands and her first CD of heavy instrumental music was on Michael Angelo Batio’s M.A.C.E. Records. He also played bass on her first CD.
When Milwaukee musician Katrina Johansson was a teen learning how to play the electric guitar, she had few female role models in the rock genre. Determination and talent helped her break into the boys club of rock music: She has two critically acclaimed CDs, several heavy instrumental songs available on iTunes.
When did you start your musical career and what was your first musical instrument?
I have been playing guitar forever…
Who were your musical influences that inspired you to pick up the guitar and play?
I have a lot of musical influences, probably too many to list. My main influences include Joe Satriani, Eddie Van Halen, Peter Lindgren, and Gary Moore. Years ago, I saw Joe Satriani and was so moved that I decided I wanted to play and write guitar-based instrumental music. Eddie Van Halen was such an innovator and you have to love the energy in his playing.
How would you describe your music?
I would describe my music as instrumental rock, my music has been labeled “shred guitar” but I also write alternative pop songs with vocals, too.
How are your songs inspired – life experiences, poetry, other?
Sometimes my songs are inspired by life experiences, positive and negative but some songs are inspired by a spontaneous guitar riff that just seems to give life to other ideas. Writing is definitely a therapeutic experience.
You’re a Luna Guitars endorsed artist (among other companies)…which Luna guitar do you play and what do you like most about it?
I play a Luna Apollo. It has the sound and feel of a Les Paul without the weight which makes it perfect for girls and women.
Besides playing music, what other hobbies and interests do you have?
Besides music, I love running, rollerblading, animals, and spending time with my dogs!!
So what’s next for Katrina? Are you working on any new tunes or any other current projects?
I am currently planning a new live show and writing new material. Check my website for news!
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Thanks, Katrina for taking the time to chat with us. Where can our readers find out more about you and your music and possibly catch a live show?
www.katrinaguitar.com
www.deanguitars.com/katrina_johansson.php
www.lunaguitars.com/feature_katrinajohansson.php
www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100001075497955
www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AXZ1Effx_Q
Photo courtesy of Katrina Johansson
