Paul Carr has come full-circle

Fresh off his triumphant John-Coltrane-centennial performance of A Love Supreme at the 2026 Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival, (which he also produces) saxophonist Paul Carr is absolutely one of the busiest musicians in the DMV. On top of performing at his festival and assorted curating work, Paul Carr is a leading jazz educator. In August 2025 he was appointed assistant professor of saxophone, and director of the renowned Howard University Jazz Ensemble, at historic Howard University, his alma mater.WBGO contributor Willard Jenkins recently spoke to Paul about his “full circle moment” of returning to teach at the very place where he once studied, and the circuitous yet rewarding path he took to arrive where he is today.