A Creative Powerhouse

For vocalist, composer and educator Johnaye Kendrick, being nominated for a fifth Grammy Award is more than a professional milestone—it’s a moment decades in the making. 

“This nomination holds immense personal significance for me,” says Kendrick, chair of music at Cornish College of the Arts at Seattle University. “With so much incredible music being created every day, knowing that this particular work has resonated enough to be recognized in this way is both humbling and deeply gratifying.” (Check out the Grammy Awards this Sunday, February 1.)

The vocal quartet säje featuring (l-r) Johnaye Kendrick, Erin Bentlage, Amanda Taylor and Sara Gazarek.  

A founding member of vocal quartet säje (rhymes with "beige"), Kendrick has built a musical career that spans genres from sound healing, original compositions and jazz to contemporary and a reimagining of the classics. Yet, she says she doesn’t think about “balancing” the different roles she plays as a singer, composer, multi-instrumentalist and educator. 

“When I step into a creative space, I bring all of my influences and the unique gifts I have developed over time,” she explains. “Each aspect of what I do … feeds into the others, creating something that feels whole and true to who I am as a creative.”  

New Visions, Expanding Sound 

Kendrick continues to stretch boundaries through her own label, johnygirl, and as Composer in Residence for Key to Change, a King County-based organization that makes music and instrumentation accessible to young people. In her role Kendrick writes works intentionally shaped for young musicians. 

“As I am reimagining a song for a specific ensemble, I am very intentional about keeping the performers and the context in mind,” she says. “Those parameters give me a sense of direction and purpose.” 

That philosophy carries forward as säje works on its second album, now in the mixing stage. Featuring collaborations with various artists, she says the project reflects deep growth and patience. “We are taking our time because we want this project to be a true reflection of how we’ve grown.” 

A Teacher and Leader Guided by Curiosity 

For Kendrick, the national spotlight that comes with a Grammy nomination only strengthens her commitment to students. 

“This journey has deeply influenced both my teaching philosophy and my leadership,” she says. “It serves as a reminder of the importance of staying curious, taking risks, and leaning into vulnerability.” 

Her most repeated lesson? 

“Don’t be afraid to fail,” she says, reflecting on her own evolution. “Growth comes through exploration … I encourage my students to embrace those beautiful moments of uncertainty because that is where the magic and growth happen!”  

Looking Ahead 

Asked how she hopes her work will be remembered, Kendrick returns to values that define her career. 

“I hope my legacy reflects a commitment to authenticity, creativity and empowerment,” she says. “If I can leave behind artists who feel confident in their individuality and inspired to push boundaries, then I will have done my job.” 

For Kendrick, the future of music—and the artists who will shape it—is limitless. And from the classroom to the Grammy stage, she’s leading by example.