767 Walker Ave. Memphis, TN 38126
In Memory of Carl Johnson Jr. and Mrs. Michelle Johnson
In Memory of our Founders
With profound respect and enduring gratitude, we honor the lives and legacy of Michelle M. Johnson and Carl E. Johnson Jr. , visionary founder and COO of the Harmonic South String Orchestra (HSSO). Their shared dream—to place a violin, viola, cello, or bass in the hands of every underprivileged student they could reach—was not just a mission; it was a life’s calling born from their own childhood experiences playing in orchestra.
From the earliest days, both Michelle and Carl devoted themselves fully—body, heart, and spirit—to ensuring that children from all walks of life could find belonging, expression, and opportunity through music. Where others saw limitations, they saw potential. Where others heard silence, they brought harmony.
Their work through HSSO was more than education—it was empowerment. Through every bow drawn across string, and every note played in unison, their legacy lives on. Countless young musicians stand as living testaments to their belief that music can uplift, transform, and connect.
The motto they championed so passionately—"HSSO... Bringing Music to More , and Bringing More to Music"—continues to resonate, just as their love for community and commitment to equity continue to inspire all who follow in their footsteps.
May their memory be a symphony of hope, and may we carry forward their vision with the same joy, purpose, and dedication that defined their extraordinary lives.
With deepest respect,
The Harmonic South String Orchestra Family
Michelle Mason Johnson , Founder and Late CEO
It is with great sadness that the Johnson family announces that our dear CEO, Michelle Johnson, died peacefully among close family on Tuesday April 2, 2024.Born in Memphis,Tn, she lived an amazing life doting on family and friends. In honor of her memory, everything is welcomed and accepted however, in lieu of flowers , we would love donations to what she loved the most , her Non- profit , Harmonic South String Orchestra via check, cash or cash app (9019497537) . We want her music to live on forever and touch as many lives as possible.She will be greatly missed and always in our loving memory as a strong woman.”
Carl Johnson Jr , Late COO
It is with great faith and deep love that we announce the Celebration of Life services for our cherished Carl Everett Johnson, Jr. (Carl Johnson).Carl lived a life of purpose, service, education, music, and family—impacting countless lives through his faith, his work, his skill, his wit, his presence, and his whole self, offering it all with an immeasurable heart.
