Jazz Night at Westminster Presbyterian Church Transitions to New Leadership
Jazz saxophonist Paul Carr and his wife Karmen will take over the stewardship of Jazz Night at Westminster Presbyterian Church, also known as the Jazz Church, located at the Southwest Waterfront in Washington, D.C. This popular, long-running jazz series, founded…
Washington, DC, August 25, 2026 —
Washington D.C. – Jazz Night at Westminster Presbyterian Church, a beloved fixture in the Washington D.C. jazz scene, is set to embark on a new chapter with the transition of stewardship to jazz saxophonist Paul Carr and his wife, Karmen. The series, affectionately known as the Jazz Church, has been a cornerstone of the Southwest Waterfront community since its inception in 1999.
The change in leadership comes as the series’ co-founders transition to new roles. Pastor Brian Hamilton is retiring, and Dick Smith, who is in his 80s, will be moving into an emeritus position. Hamilton and Smith established Jazz Night with the aim of creating a welcoming space for jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike, fostering a strong sense of community through the shared appreciation of music.
Paul Carr, a respected figure in the jazz community, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He currently directs the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival and oversees the jazz program at Howard University. Carr has expressed his commitment to upholding the foundational principles of Jazz Night, emphasizing the continuation of its vision for community building and the provision of accessible jazz performances.
For over two decades, Jazz Night at Westminster Presbyterian Church has provided a consistent platform for local and visiting jazz artists, drawing a diverse audience and solidifying its reputation as a vital gathering place. The long-running series has been instrumental in nurturing the local jazz ecosystem, offering a space for both established and emerging talent to perform.
The transition signifies an ongoing commitment to the legacy established by Hamilton and Smith. Paul and Karmen Carr are expected to maintain the series’ tradition of accessible and engaging jazz programming, ensuring that the Jazz Church continues to thrive as a community hub for years to come.
Story summarized from the original created by Michael J. West on washingtoncitypaper.com, see more information here.
