Gloucester Cathedral to unveil new organ with landmark festival weekend this June

Gloucester Cathedral will celebrate a landmark moment in its musical history this June with the unveiling of its new organ at the Gloucester Cathedral Organ Festival taking place 13-15 June 2026.

This special weekend of performances and events will offer audiences the opportunity to experience the full power of the Cathedral’s new organ. Audiences can expect a vibrant programme showcasing the versatility of the new organ, with internationally renowned musicians, collaborative performances and opportunities to engage with music-making up close.

The festival will represent much more than the launch of the new instrument and will be a celebration of music for all.

The Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, Dean of Gloucester, said:

“This year’s Organ Festival is a thrilling highlight of the Cathedral’s Year of Music, celebrating the unveiling of the magnificent new organ, an instrument built to lift hearts and inspire generations to come in worship and wonder.

“Bringing together world-class performers and the wider community, the weekend will showcase the instrument’s extraordinary range and marks an exciting new chapter in the Cathedral’s musical life, a life rooted in the daily offering of prayer and praise. We look forward to welcoming all who can attend this special occasion.”

The Reverend Canon Craig Huxley-Jones, Canon Precentor, added:

“The Organ Festival is a powerful expression of our commitment here at the Cathedral to creating musical partnerships and unlocking musical potential across the city, county and diocese. The new organ opens up exciting possibilities for collaboration, creativity and learning, and we are delighted to mark this with audiences from across Gloucestershire and beyond this June.”

The weekend programme includes:

• Gala Concert – Saturday 13 June, 7pm

A spectacular gala performance featuring the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, conducted by Adrian Partington, Director of Music at Gloucester Cathedral, alongside internationally acclaimed organist Thomas Trotter. The programme will include works by Joseph Jongen and Camille Saint-Saëns. Tickets from £20 (booking required).

• A Gloucestershire Cantata: Celebrating Young Voices – Sunday 14 June, 12.30pm

A joyful celebration of young musical talent, featuring a world premiere by composer Lin Marsh. Performed by local schools and children from the Cathedral’s Singing Academy, this special commission forms part of the Cathedral’s long-term musical outreach plans. Free event (booking required).

• Organ Recital with Wayne Marshall – Sunday 14 June, 7pm

An opportunity to hear one of the world’s leading organists demonstrate the instrument’s full range. Tickets £20 (booking required).

• Organ Masterclass with Wayne Marshall – Monday 15 June, 2pm

A rare chance to step inside the creative process and observe a master musician at work with local organ students, exploring the art of improvisation under his expert guidance. Free event (no booking required).

This festival not only celebrates the Cathedral’s rich musical heritage but also looks to the future: expanding access to world-class music in the heart of Gloucestershire.

For more details and to book, please visit the Gloucester Cathedral website: https://gloucestercathedral.org.uk/whats-on/organ-festival

ENDS

Notes for editors:

For more media information, please contact:

Rebecca Lloyd: rebecca.lloyd@gloucestercathedral.org.uk

Elspeth Keep: elspeth.keep@gloucestercathedral.org.uk