Grammy-Nominated Cellist Malik Johnson to Perform at Milwaukee's Var Gallery

Johnson's original music blends classical cello with modern rhythm and unapologetically Black sound.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 7:48pm

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Grammy-nominated composer Malik Johnson, known for his work with artists like Kirk Franklin and Brent Faiyaz, is set to perform his original music at Var Gallery in Milwaukee on March 14. The concert will feature Johnson's classical cello playing infused with modern rhythm and Black musical influences, transcending common conceptions of the instrument.

Why it matters

Johnson's performance at Var Gallery provides a rare opportunity for audiences to experience the cellist's personal musical journey, as he often performs covers rather than his own compositions. The concert also highlights the work of D-Composed, a Black chamber music collective founded by violinist and oboist Kori Coleman, which will join Johnson on stage.

The details

During the "Journey Over Destination" concert, Johnson will perform alongside members of the string ensemble D-Composed. In addition to his work as a performer, Johnson serves as the first artist-in-residence at the Betty Brinn Children's Museum in Milwaukee, where he brings live music and play-based learning to visitors. He also teaches at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music and produces beats under the artist name 99TheProducer.

  • The concert at Var Gallery is scheduled for 8 p.m. on March 14, 2026.
  • Doors will open at 7:30 p.m. on the day of the performance.

The players

Malik Johnson

A Grammy-nominated composer and cellist known for his work with artists like Kirk Franklin and Brent Faiyaz, as well as his own original music that blends classical cello with modern rhythm and unapologetically Black sound.

D-Composed

A Black chamber music collective founded in 2017 by violinist and oboist Kori Coleman, with a repertoire of works exclusively by Black composers. D-Composed will join Malik Johnson on stage for the performance at Var Gallery.

Kori Coleman

The violinist and oboist who founded the Black chamber music collective D-Composed in 2017.

Var Gallery

The Milwaukee art gallery hosting Malik Johnson's "Journey Over Destination" concert on March 14, 2026.

Betty Brinn Children's Museum

The Milwaukee museum where Malik Johnson serves as the first artist-in-residence, bringing live music and play-based learning to visitors.

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What’s next

Tickets for the "Journey Over Destination" concert at Var Gallery are on sale now for $18 at vargallery.com.

The takeaway

Malik Johnson's performance at Var Gallery offers a unique opportunity to experience the cellist's personal musical journey, blending classical cello with modern rhythm and unapologetically Black sound. The concert also highlights the work of the Black chamber music collective D-Composed, further showcasing the diversity and innovation within the classical music genre.