Jonathan was born in St Albans and was a chorister at St Albans Cathedral, singing under Colin Walsh and Barry Rose. He studied for a degree in music in Essex, learning the organ and voice. He then completed a PGCE in Oxford.
Jonathan started his teaching career at the Downs School in West Berkshire, where he held positions as Head of Year and Head of Music. He was then appointed as Director of Music at Wood Green School, Witney, in Oxfordshire. He then spent four years as Senior Manager of Teaching and Learning, and Safeguarding Lead at Oxfordshire County Music Service. More recently, Jonathan held the position of Director of Teaching and Learning, at GEMS Wellington Academy, Silicon Oasis, Dubai, leading the Creative Arts faculty.
During his 19-year tenure as Director of Music at Wantage Parish Church, the large four-part choir of children and adults flourished, singing a challenging repertoire ranging from Palestrina masses to newly commissioned works, and continues to have a reputation as one of the finest church choirs in the area. At the Oxfordshire Music Service Jonathan conducted the County Youth Junior and Senior Choirs, performing in venues around Oxford, as well as the Birmingham Symphony Hall and the Royal Albert Hall.