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Johnny was encouraged to play violin by his father Sturlaugur. He began formal lessons with Johannes Palsson, a well known local musician.

Johnny inspired his siblings to follow his example, his sisters and brothers had the same perseverance for music.

Johnny was the lead in the orchestra and true professional.

Johnny has been a mentor to many musicians over the years and will be forever remembered for his patience and dedication. He helped to create a tradition that will always remain important to Riverton's heritage.

Johnny Johannesson passed away December 18, 1994.

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Kris Johannesson
2001
Gimli, Manitoba

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Kris started playing the violin at a very young age. He also studied with Johannes Palsson from Riverton.

For over fifty years, Kris played along side his brother, Johnny. These two Johannesson brothers introduced "Johnny and his Musical Mates".

Kris would compliment the music with his superb harmony played in perfect pitch. The brothers would play their violins in such synchronized perfection, you would assume at times it was one brilliant instrument.

After Johnny passed away, Kris took over the lead violin in the orchestra, playing the melodies as if his brother were still sitting beside him.

Kris has lost three family members- his brothers Laugi, Johnny, and sister, Kristine.

Kris still plays at present with the remaining band members-sisters, Sella and Dorothy along with her son Dick, and close friend Harold Bjornson. The orchestra is now referred to as "The Musical Mates".

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Dorothy (Johannesson) Johnson playing at the ''Old Timer's Ball''
2001
Gimli, Manitoba

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Dorothy is an accomplished musician and accompanist. This talented lady not only plays piano for the orchestra, she directs the arrangements and organizes the structure of every performance.

Dorothy has a rich and unique style when playing piano - solid, correct and exceptional.

This musician has been an inspiration to many.

Dorothy still entertains at present with the "Musical Mates".

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Sella (Johannesson) Benedictson playing at the ''Old Timer's Ball''
2001
Gimli, Manitoba

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Sella plays the Hawaiin guitar, piano, drums and enjoys singing harmony at any opportunity. This lady has great energy for perfecting every performance with her knowledge and musical ability.

Sella's steadfast dedication to music has been greatly appreciated. She has inspired her family and many friends to pursue their musical ability.

Sella still plays with "The Musical Mates" at present.

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Kristine (Johannesson) Collins playing at the ''Old Timer's Ball''
13 June 1996
Gimli, Manitoba

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Kristine played the accordion with the orchestra. She would add a rich tone and melody with a perfect blend to the violin, piano, and the guitars. Kristine could also play other instruments such as the guitar for pleasure and occasionally took over the piano for Dorothy while playing for a dance.

This is the last picture taken of Kristine when playing with her family "Musical Mates", at the "Old Timer's Ball".

Kristine passed away June 8, 1999.

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Laugi Johannesson
1991
Riverton, Manitoba

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Laugi was the youngest of "Johnny and his Musical Mates". He was a musician, accompanist, director and a true inspiration to so many.

Laugi demonstrated his talents in many ways. He could play guitar, piano, bass fiddle, bass guitar, violin and was an accomplished singer.

This talented, yet modest, musician was respected and appreciated by many performers for his knowledge and skill.

Laugi has performed with:
Johnny and his Musical Mates
Whisky Jacks
Retreat
Fine Country Folk

Laugi has helped and inspired children such as his daughter, Lori, and assisted the Fine Country Kids and Musical Pals. He made the time to share his talent and give direction.

Laugi passed away March 13, 1994.

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Harold Bjornson, close friend and a long time member of Johnny and his Musical Mates
2001
Gimli, Manitoba

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Harold is a true talented musician, original member of "Johnny and his Musical Mates".

Harold's guitar adds tone and rhythym to every tune he plays. Still entertaining at present with "The Musical Mates", he adds his quality and experience.

Harold has a voice that is rich, deep and appealing when he sings. This musician can also play bass guitar and piano.

Harold has been with the Johannesson family for many years, a childhood friend and partner, and he is truly considered a part of the family.

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Dick Johnson, Dorothy (Johannesson) Johnson's son at the Gimli Pavillion, ''Old Timer's Ball''
2001
Gimli, Manitoba