Today we’re talking with our friend and fellow DC-area freelancer, percussionist Donnie Johns! Donnie is the founder of the DMV Percussion Academy which aims to fill in the gaps in training for percussion students in the DC/Baltimore/Virginia region. We talk with Donnie about the value of community for students, the problem with elitism in our field and the work we all have left to do in the realm of inclusivity. It’s clear that he lives his life practicing gratitude, and Donnie’s warmth and generous spirit radiate in this conversation! **If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and writing a quick review for our podcast! 10% discount on The ArcRest! Just mention the code “VIOLACENTRIC” at checkout!www.thearcrest.comWe have a Patreon site! Support us and get perks and bonus content!www.patreon.com/violacentricMentioned in this episode:DMV Percussion Academy: https://www.dmvpercussion.org/Colour of Music Festival: https://www.colourofmusic.org/Gateways Music Festival: https://www.gatewaysmusicfestival.org/************************Our website: www.violacentric.com, for merch, joining our email list, and contacting us with stories and feedback!Episode edited by: Emily MacMahon and Liz O’Hara StahrViolaCentric Theme by: JP Wogaman, www.wogamusic.comOur Sponsors:Aria Lights: www.arialights.comThe Arc Rest: www.thearcrest.comPotter Violins: www.potterviolins.comSupport the Show.Interested in starting your own podcast? We can't recommend our host Buzzsprout enough! Click here for an introductory offer from them!