Geoff Johns (1959–2013) was a professional drummer, master teacher, and cross-cultural percussionist, originally teaching in Boulder, Colorado, as an instructor at the Naropa Institute. After moving to the Pacific Northwest, Geoff continued to play professionally. As a Washington State Arts Commission artist-in-residence, Geoff taught students of all ages throughout Washington State, and locally in Seattle and on Vashon Island. Geoff had studied and taught with many master drummers from Latin America, Africa, and Bali. He was the leader of the Bakongo! drum ensemble. He was a gifted and beloved teacher. He passed away in the spring of 2013, but his love of music and joyful, inspired teachings live on in the lives of every student he touched, and in his recordings.