Liverpool Cathedral launches ‘Organ October’ to mark 100 years of its Grand Organ

Liverpool Cathedral launches ‘Organ October’ to mark 100 years of its Grand Organ

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of its Grand Organ, Liverpool Cathedral is launching ‘Organ October’ – a whole month dedicated to the largest pipe organ in the UK, culminating in a special centenary recital marking 100 years since its dedication in 1926.  

Organ October

To mark the start of ‘Organ October,’ Organ 100 is a free exhibition celebrating a century of the Grand Organ at Liverpool Cathedral, exploring the rich history, craftsmanship and musical legacy of the Cathedral’s most iconic instrument, honouring the vision of the organ builders, the dedication of its organists, and the enduring role it has played in the cultural life of Liverpool.

The Very Revd Dr Sue Jones, Dean of Liverpool, said:

“For 100 years, the Grand Organ has been at the heart of worship, music and life at Liverpool Cathedral. Its sound has marked moments of joy, reflection and remembrance for countless people, becoming an enduring part of both our cathedral and the city. This October gives us an opportunity to celebrate not only this landmark instrument, but also the people whose passion has ensured its music continues to inspire generations.”

From Monday 5th October to Saturday 31st October (from the week commencing 20th October, the exhibition will remain open in a reduced format and relocated to the choir aisles), discover the fascinating story behind the creation and development of the Grand Organ, alongside memories, photographs and archival material celebrating the important people who have shaped its history over the past century.

Professor Ian Tracey Retires

The exhibition also pays tribute to beloved Organist, Professor Ian Tracey – who retires from Liverpool Cathedral in October after 46 years of impeccable service – recognising his extraordinary contribution from his early days as an organ scholar to its culmination as Cathedral Organist.

Appointed in 1980 as Britain’s youngest cathedral organist, Ian has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning more than four decades, establishing himself as one of the UK’s most respected musicians. Alongside his role at Liverpool Cathedral, he has served as Liverpool City Organist, Guest Director of Music for the BBC’s Daily Service, and Professor, Fellow and Organist at Liverpool John Moores University. Also, in 2006, The University of Liverpool conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Music.  

Professor Ian Tracey, Organist at Liverpool Cathedral, said:

“I am delighted that the Cathedral is celebrating the centenary of the organ with a major exhibition documenting the history of this iconic instrument and the three organists who have presided for over a century.”

Throughout October, the Cathedral will also host two special talks and demonstrations on the 8th and 15th October, led by Ian Wells, Deputy Organist at Liverpool Cathedral, and Geoff Williams, former Organ Scholar and Director of Music at St. Anne’s Stanley, Liverpool. Drawing on their extensive knowledge and experience, they will explore the fascinating history of the Cathedral’s organ, share stories from its past, and demonstrate the musical brilliance of Liverpool’s most iconic instrument. Tickets can be booked online.

As part of the celebrations in October, families can also enjoy a range of fun, interactive music-themed craft sessions during half term as we celebrate the organ’s 100-year connection with Liverpool and the Cathedral.

100 Year Organ Recital

One of the highlights of the celebrations will be the historic 100th anniversary Evensong and Organ Recital. Taking place exactly 100 years after the dedication of the Cathedral’s organ in 1926, the anniversary performance will follow Choral Evensong, continuing an unbroken tradition that has taken place every year without interruption. The recital will be given by Professor Ian Tracey, who will mark the end of his tenure as Liverpool Cathedral’s Organist with this landmark performance, celebrating a century of the Cathedral’s organ and one of the finest examples of British craftsmanship in the world.

A new book by Peter Lynan, an ex-chorister and organ scholar at Liverpool Cathedral, explores the detailed history of the Cathedral’s Grand Organ as part of its centenary celebrations. The 267-page book features colour and historic greyscale images and is available in paperback, alongside a limited number of signed hardback editions. It can be purchased below.

Val Jackson MBE, Cathedral Archivist, said:

“The Grand Organ is one of the Cathedral’s most significant treasures, and this exhibition brings together a century of stories, memories and archival material that celebrates its rich history. It has been a privilege to help share these stories and mark the enduring legacy of the organ as we look ahead to the next 100 years.”

Whether you’re an organ enthusiast, music lover or have a passion for history, join us as we celebrate 100 years of the Grand Organ and the people whose passion and dedication have ensured its music continues to inspire generations and remains an enduring part of the soundtrack of the city.