Sacred music has played an integral role at St. Paul’s Parish since its establishment in 1866. St. Paul’s has long been noted for fine organ and choral music, carefully framed in the glories of a high Anglican liturgy, that contributes richly to the spiritual and cultural life of its larger community. St. Paul’s Parish gave the city of Washington DC its first “choral service” with a vested choir of men and boys. Organist Edgar Priest left St. Paul’s in 1911 to become the first organist of Washington Cathedral, taking several choristers to establish the national church’s famous boys’ choir. The debt was later repaid with the appointment of Paul Callaway, Organist Emeritus of the Cathedral, as Music Director at St. Paul’s from 1979 to 1985. The Schoenstein organ installed in 1996 has generated international attention. With its beauty and excellent acoustics, St. Paul’s nave is a frequent venue for many notable performances of choral music and chamber music.

St. Paul’s has an adult Parish Choir of volunteers and professionals; a Youth Choir for high school boys and girls; and separate Boys’ Choir and Girls’ Choir for children aged 7 and up. However, the most important choir at every service is the congregation itself. Our Organ provides a magnificent accompaniment to both choral and congregational singing.

For further information about music at St. Paul’s, please phone or email the director of music, Mr. Robert McCormick (202-337-2020, ext. 14, McCormick@stpauls-kst.com).