Concerts and Recitals

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Concerts and Recitals

Music resonates through the heart of Washington National Cathedral. In addition to our classical and contemporary worship music, the Cathedral is home to a full concert season of orchestral performances, organ recitals and world-renowned guest artists.

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Beloved traditions like Handel’s Messiah return alongside Marin Alsop conducting The Planets, the Cathedral Choir performing Mozart, a celebration of the Women of Jazz, and more.

Handel's Messiah

Fri Dec. 4 • 7 pm
Sat Dec. 5 • 6 pm
Sun Dec. 6 • 6 pm

 The Washington National Cathedral Choir and Baroque Orchestra perform Handel’s beloved Messiah under the Cathedral's soaring Gothic architecture. Witness the concert that has captivated audiences for generations. Livestream available for 12/6 performance only. Run time: 2.5 hours, including intermission.

Handel's Messiah: Highlights

Sat Dec. 5 • 2 pm Enjoy the most popular choruses from Messiah during this 60-minute abbreviated program. From “Sinfonia (Overture)” to the legendary “Hallelujah Chorus,” experience the highlights of a concert that has become a Cathedral tradition. Run time: 60 minutes.
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Handel's Messiah + Overnight Stay

Dec. 4, 5, or 6
Extended stays may be available

 Enhance your concert experience with an overnight stay at the Cathedral's stunning Virginia Mae Center! This package offers a one-night stay in a Standard Guest Room plus two Premium Nave tickets to a performance of Messiah. See more details on the ticketing page.
More Info + Tickets About the Virginia Mae Center

Cantus: Lessons and Carols for Our Time

Sun Dec. 20 • 6 pm Acclaimed ensemble Cantus brings its signature warmth and artistry to this contemporary take on the beloved Lessons and Carols tradition. Featuring seasonal readings and a thoughtful blend of cherished carols. Livestream available. Run time: 90 minutes, including intermission.

Women of Jazz: Her Sound. Her Story.

Sat Feb. 6 • 4 pm The Cathedral's Onward & Upward series returns for Black History Month to honor the extraordinary artistry and legacy of Black women in jazz. Through music and storytelling, The String Queens, Lori Williams, Endea Owens, and other dynamic artists celebrate the trailblazers who shaped the genre and the women carrying their influence forward today. Livestream available. Run time: 75-90 minutes, no intermission.

Tenebrae: The Journey

Sat Feb. 27 • 7 pm Celebrating its 25th anniversary, internationally acclaimed choir Tenebrae presents a moving Lenten program of sacred choral music. The Journey follows Christ’s path to the cross through works of beauty, reflection, and hope. Run time: 90 minutes including intermission.
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Mozart’s Requiem and Sparrow Mass

Fri Apr. 30 • 7 pm
Sat. May 1 • 7 pm

 The Cathedral Choir performs two of Mozart’s most beloved works, the monumental Requiem and the radiant Sparrow Mass. Bringing heaven and earth together through soaring choral and orchestral music, this program moves between reflection and celebration. Run time: 80 minutes
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Marin Alsop Conducts Holst’s The Planets

Sun Jun. 27 • 6 pm Internationally acclaimed conductor Marin Alsop leads the National Orchestral Institute + Festival Philharmonic in Holst’s iconic The Planets. From the relentless power of Mars to the radiant joy of Jupiter, this orchestral suite brings the wonders of the solar system to life. Run time: 60 minutes
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Organ Recitals

Featuring Cathedral organists and world-renowned musicians, join us for these performances that celebrate the grandest of instruments.

Organ Recital: Michael Hey

Sun Nov. 22 • 2 pm This performance organist Michael Hey, named one of The Diapason’s “Top 20 Under 30” organists. No tickets required. Livestream available.
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Christmas Day Organ Recital

Fri Dec. 25 • 1:30 pm Join us on Christmas Day for a recital featuring Cathedral organists. No tickets required. Livestream available.
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Organ Recital: David Enlow

Sun Feb. 21 • 2 pm This performance features the highly versatile organist and conductor David Enlow. No tickets required. Livestream available.
Details + Livestream

Easter Day Organ Recital

Sun Mar. 28 • 2 pm Join us on Easter Sunday for a recital featuring Cathedral organists. No tickets required. Livestream available.
Details + Livestream

Organ Recital: Edward Hewes

Sun Sep. 6 • 2 pm This performance featured Cathedral Organist Edward Hewes. Watch the archived performance below.
Watch Archived Performance

Cathedral Choral Society

The Cathedral Choral Society’s concert season is available. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the CCS website.