Washington National Cathedral Appoints Jared Johnson as Director of Music
WASHINGTON—Washington National Cathedral is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Jared Johnson as Director of Music and Canon-Elect. Dr. Johnson, currently serving as Canon Director of Music at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, will assume his new role in summer 2026, bringing his extensive expertise in choral leadership, organ performance, and sacred music education.
In this position, Dr. Johnson will oversee the Cathedral’s renowned music program, including direction of the Cathedral Choir, organ performances, and the broader liturgical and concert offerings that enhance worship and welcome visitors from across the country and around the world.
A native of Ohio, Dr. Johnson holds degrees from Oberlin College (in English and organ performance), as well as master’s and doctoral degrees from Yale University. He previously served as Canon Organist and Choirmaster at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Columbia, South Carolina, where he founded choirs for boys and girls and established a music education program for underserved students. He has performed organ recitals internationally, recorded, toured, and served as a frequent guest conductor.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jared Johnson to the Cathedral,” said The Very Rev. Randolph Marshall Hollerith, Dean of Washington National Cathedral. “Jared brings a profound commitment to the transformative power of sacred music, combined with proven leadership in building vibrant choral programs and fostering an inclusive musical ministry. His vision aligns perfectly with our mission to be a place of welcome, healing, and inspiration for all people. We look forward to the ways his gifts will enrich our worship in the years ahead.”
The Rev. Canon Rosemarie Logan Duncan, Canon Precentor, added: “Music is at the heart of our liturgical life here at the Cathedral, lifting prayers, uniting the community, and drawing people closer to the divine. Jared’s deep experience in Anglican choral traditions, his passion for excellence, and his collaborative spirit make him the ideal person to lead our music ministry forward. We are excited for the beauty and depth he will bring to our services and special events.”
Dr. Jared Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for the new role: “It is an honor to be called to Washington National Cathedral, a true beacon of faith and music. It will be a privilege to carry on the work of so many good souls before me, in a place with a commitment to sacred music that is difficult to match in our country. The Cathedral has inspired me throughout my career – from attending my first Evensong as a student, to bringing my choirs for visits, and later sharing its majesty with my own children as pilgrims. It is a special joy for my family to come to Washington, DC, my wife’s hometown, where we will be surrounded by close family and friends.”
For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact Rebecca Bute, VP of Marketing and Communication at [email protected].
Photo credit: Marko Knezevic
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About Washington National Cathedral
Grounded in the reconciling love of Jesus Christ, Washington National Cathedral is a house of prayer for all people, conceived by our founders to serve as a great church for national purposes.