Brian Johnson grew up in Shaunavon located in south west Saskatchewan. He began violin studies at age 5, and worked with Swift Current violinist Hazel Steinborn before attending the University of Regina, where he studied with Dr. Howard Leyton-Brown. He graduating in 1982 with the Governor General's Gold Medal, and continued his studies in Toronto with Canadian Trio violin soloist Jaime Weisenblum. While pursuing his education in Ontario he also was a violinist with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. Brian Johnson returned to Saskatchewan in 1987 to take the position of Principal Second Violin with the Regina Symphony Orchestra.

Brian has expanded his musical career to include the crafting of fine bows, violins and violas.  He studied with Chicago Bowmaker John Norwood-Lee, and now has bow customers around the world, including soloist Lara St. John.

Brian's company, Ambiance Music, includes the area of bow and instrument sales and repairs, and also offers string music ensembles for special events in Regina and area. A committed violin teacher, Brian offers instruction through the Regina Conservatory of Performing Arts, and the Moose Jaw Youth String Orchestra where he also directs the youth, senior and adult orchestras. Brian and his wife RSO Principal Timpanist Lisa Simmermon, have a son, Hans. 

When he is not practising, performing, teaching or making bows Brian loves to paint and play with military miniature models in strategy games with his family, and other strategy gamers.