As Music Director, Holton Johnson serves as the church organist and accompanist and is responsible for the overall music ministry of Saint Paul Methodist Church. He leads and conducts the Chancel Choir, the Handbell Choir, and the Children’s Music program. He is a full-time member of the Ministry Team.

Whether behind a mouthpiece, in the choir hall, or with his hands on a keyboard, Holton Johnson’s passion for music shines through in every facet of his life. Born in Gulfport, Mississippi, to parents who met on the Mississippi Gulf Coast during his father’s military service, Holton grew up alongside his two younger brothers Andrew & Gabriel. Embracing his Mississippi roots, Holton embarked on a musical experience that has been expansive and moving.

Holton began that musical journey as a Euphonium player in his local school band program and grew to love music through the band. He later moved on to study at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College where he met his wife Katelyn and earned his Associate of Arts degree in Music. While in community college, Holton discovered the world of choral music and began studying voice and piano while continuing his studies on the euphonium. After Community College, he attended The University of Southern Mississippi and received a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education in 2021. He continued his academic career at the same institution and earned his Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting in 2023.

Throughout his studies, Holton performed as a soloist on Euphonium and as a vocalist, organist, and pianist. In addition to solo performances, he was an ensemble member in every major ensemble in the university’s School of Music and used his piano skills to accompany many others. During his graduate school studies, Holton also developed and refined his musical and
leadership skills through his work as a Graduate Assistant.

In 2019, while earning his bachelor’s degree full-time, Holton began working as the Music Director at Columbia Presbyterian Church. This experience provided a foundation for his journey as a Church Musician and as a Christian. He learned essential skills such as recruiting musicians, operating within budgets, managing sound equipment, and navigating streaming worship services. In 2022, Holton accepted the position of Organist and Choirmaster at First Christian Church and took great strides in his growth as a church organist and choir director during his time there. Both appointments were fundamental to his development as a church musician and Christian.

Holton has served as the Saint Paul Music Director since 2023. When he is not practicing, Holton enjoys developing his barista skills at home and watching a good show or movie. He also enjoys playing the occasional video game, hiking, traveling, and cooking a good pot of gumbo. Holton and Katelyn were married on June 17, in their home state in MS. They enjoy baking, lounging, singing together, and spending time with their beloved dog, Maurice.