Gloucester Cathedral is hosting a series of concerts to celebrate its new organ this summer 2026 – and there's a lineup of internationally renowned artists coming to town to take part.
What to expect from Gloucester Cathedal Organ Festival?
A landmark moment in Gloucester Cathedral's musical history, the concerts taking place as part of the festival give visitors the chance to see and hear its new organ, which has undergone a £1.8 million refurbishment.
Starting on Sunday 14 June 2026, 'A Gloucestershire Cantata: Celebrating Young Voices' gives music lovers a chance to witness a world premiere by composer, Lin Marsh, performed by children from Gloucester Cathedral Singing Academy.
On Saturday 18 July 2026, Wayne Marshall performs an evening organ recital, followed by a free masterclass on Sunday 19 July 2026, giving visitors a rare chance to get up-close to this incredible instrument, watching Wayne and a team of local organ students learning the art of improvisation.
Then the festival concludes with a gala concert featuring the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and acclaimed organist, Thomas Trotter, conducted by Gloucester Cathedral's own director of music, Adrian Partington, on Saturday 12 September 2026.
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Gloucester Cathedral's organ case is the only complete 17th century organ case in the country and has links to everyone from Ivor Novello to composer of the American National Anthem 'The Star Spangled Banner', John Stafford Smith, making it one of the world's most prestigious instruments – with the new Organ Festival providing the perfect opportunity to witness this historic instrument gain a new lease of life.
How much are tickets to Gloucester Cathedral Organ Festival?
Tickets to the opening gala concert start from £20, while tickets for the organ recital with Wayne Marshall cost £20 each.
Tickets for 'A Gloucestershire Cantata' are free but must be pre-booked, while the improvisation event is free to attend and doesn't require pre-booking.
How to book tickets to Gloucester Cathedral Organ Festival
To book tickets, visit gloucestercathedral.org.uk/whats-on/organ-festival.
