Organ October: Celebrating 100 Years of the Grand Organ at Liverpool Cathedral
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.
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, exploring its remarkable story, the people behind its music and the generations of musicians and listeners who have made it such an important part of the city’s soundtrack.
Organ 100: Celebrating a century of music, craftsmanship and heritage
Organ 100 Exhibition
From the 5th October, step into the remarkable story of one of the world’s greatest cathedral organs with Organ 100, a FREE exhibition celebrating 100 years of the Grand Organ at Liverpool Cathedral.
This special exhibition explores the rich history, craftsmanship and musical legacy of the Cathedral’s iconic instrument, honouring the vision of the organ builders, the dedication of its organists, and the enduring role the Grand Organ has played in worship, concerts and the cultural life of Liverpool.
Visitors will discover the fascinating story behind the creation and development of the Grand Organ, alongside memories, photographs and archival material celebrating the people who have shaped its history over the past century.
The exhibition also pays tribute to Professor Ian Tracey, recognising his extraordinary contribution to Liverpool Cathedral, from his early days as Organ Scholar to his distinguished service as Cathedral Organist. His decades of musical leadership have helped establish the Cathedral as one of the UK’s leading destinations for sacred music and organ performance.
Join us as we celebrate 100 years of the magnificent Grand Organ and the people whose passion have ensured its music continues to inspire generations.
100th Anniversary Organ Recital
Join us for a very special recital marking the 100th anniversary of the opening and dedication of the Cathedral Organ in 1926.
Join us for a very special recital marking the 100th anniversary of the opening and dedication of the Cathedral Organ in 1926. This historic event has been observed every year without interruption, taking place on the Saturday nearest to 18 October, and continues a proud musical tradition at Liverpool Cathedral.
The recital follows Choral Evensong sung by the Cathedral Choir, just as it did on the organ’s original dedication day.
This recital will be given by Professor Ian Tracey, Liverpool Cathedral’s Organist since 1980. At the time of his appointment, Ian was the youngest cathedral organist in Britain. Over his distinguished career, he has served as Organist to the City of Liverpool, St George’s Hall, and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society, as well as Professor and Organist at Liverpool John Moores University.
This performance forms part of our special Organ Centenary Series, celebrating 100 years of our magnificent Willis Organ. Across the season, we will host six exceptional recitals featuring world-class organists marking this historic milestone.
A Fellow of multiple prestigious musical institutions, Ian has received numerous honours for his contribution to music, including the North West Arts Award for Classical Music and an honorary Doctor of Music degree from the University of Liverpool. His reputation as one of Britain’s leading organists is recognised both nationally and internationally.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Liverpool Cathedral’s magnificent organ, heard in its full glory on this landmark occasion.
An Illustrated Talk to Celebrate 100 Years of the Grand Organ
Explore Liverpool Cathedral’s iconic organ with Ian Wells and Geoff Williams, featuring live demonstrations, performances and stories.
Join Ian Wells, Deputy Organist at Liverpool Cathedral, and Geoff Williams, Director of Music at St Anne’s Stanley, for a fascinating exploration of Liverpool Cathedral’s Grand Organ as part of the 100th anniversary celebrations. Through live demonstrations and musical performances, discover the different sections and sounds of this remarkable instrument while hearing stories and insights from two experienced organists.
Following the talk, visitors are invited to explore the Organ 100 exhibition in the Memorial Chapel.
Half Term Activities
As part of the celebrations in October, families can also enjoy a range of organ- and music-themed activities during half terms, specially designed to complement the school curriculum.
As well as being fun and interactive, the programme will tell the story of the organ and celebrate its 100-year connection with Liverpool and the Cathedral.
The Grand Organ of Liverpool Cathedral
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 on the Church Organ World website.
What to Expect:
- Explore 100 years of the Grand Organ
- See rare photographs and archives
- Enjoy talks, demonstrations and family activities
- Experience a centenary recital
From its first notes in 1926 to the music heard today, the Grand Organ has been woven into the life of Liverpool Cathedral and the city around it. Organ October offers a chance to celebrate this remarkable legacy, hear its music and discover the people and stories that have helped keep it alive for 100 years.
For media enquiries, please contact: communications@liverpool.anglican.org