Johann Vargas

M.M. Piano Performance, B.M. Piano Performance

Johann Vargas is a professional pianist, composer, and educator in Meridian, Idaho, offering personalized instruction to students of all ages and levels. He teaches at the Dunkley School of Music and JV Music Studios. With over 30 years of teaching experience, Johann is known for his creative, performance-based approach that integrates technique, musical expression, composition, and theory.

Background

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Johann discovered his love for music early in life, influenced by the rich rhythms of Latin American and Caribbean music. Encouraged by his parents, he began formal music training and quickly developed a passion for the piano that would shape his lifelong career. Johann shares his love of music with his wife, Kris Arrington Vargas—also a pianist, composer, and duo partner. Together, they have nine children.

Education

Johann earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Piano Performance at Boise State University under the mentorship of the acclaimed Dr. Del Parkinson. During his academic career, Johann earned many scholarships, and twice won first place in the university’s prestigious Concerto-Aria Competition—first as an undergraduate performing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in Bb minor, and then as a graduate student with Liszt’s Totentanz. Johann has completed continuing education through Berklee College of Music, the Curtis Institute of Music, and Harvard University. He is also a certified Apple Teacher.

Performances

A versatile and accomplished performer, Mr. Vargas has appeared as a guest soloist with the Magic Valley Symphony and the Meridian Symphony, and has collaborated with Ballet Idaho, the Eugene Ballet, and the Stars of Steinway concert series. His professional journey also includes serving as the pianist, stage band leader, and music director for the Hughes Brothers Celebrity Theater in Branson, Missouri, where he performed nearly 1,000 live shows and contributed original compositions and musical arrangements.

Teaching Studio

Johann received the Steinway & Sons National Top Teacher Award in 2016. As a top-ranking Festival teacher, his students regularly earn Superior ratings at the National Federation of Music Clubs at all levels from Pre-Primary through the top Musically Advanced II. His students have regularly been accepted into university piano performance and composition programs.

Music Community and Professional Memberships

Mr. Vargas currently serves as Vice President and Co-Chair of Festivals for the Can-Ada Music Club, a local affiliate of the Idaho Federation of Music Clubs and the National Federation of Music Clubs. Johann is also a member of Boise Tuesday Musicale, another IFMC and NFMC affiliate club.