This year, Bristol Cathedral invites music lovers, history enthusiasts and the curious to discover an extraordinary, 300-year-old instrument. Throughout 2026 you can experience world-class organists in concert, silent film improvisation, and interactive workshops that show why the organ is quietly reclaiming its place in contemporary culture.
An 18-month restoration carried out by specialist firm Harrison and Harrison Ltd and supported by the Harry Crook Foundation, Bristol Cathedral Trust, and generous donors. Now, Bristol Cathedral’s historic organ has returned to its full voice and sounding better than ever before. Dating back to 1685, it is both a product of centuries of craftsmanship and a living instrument at the centre of daily services.
The organ’s resurgence isn’t confined to the Cathedral. Its sound is being rediscovered in film, contemporary performance, and new commissions, while a new generation of organists is drawing wider audiences.
The Grand Organ Festival, Bristol Cathedral
Launch Events in May:
Harry Crook Grand Opening Recital (8 May) – internationally acclaimed organist David Briggs gives the opening recital, with a virtuosic programme demonstrating the full capabilities of the organ as a solo instrument. Join us, members of Harry Crook’s family, representatives of those involved in the restoration, and VIPs in celebrating this historic milestone.
Phantom of the Opera (9 May) – a truly unique evening, with a rare screening of a silent film inside the Cathedral. The Phantom of the Opera will be accompanied by David Briggs improvising a soundtrack, an incredible display of musicianship which will create a truly one-off evening.
Visitors can attend free and ticketed concerts that showcase the instruments range, interactive workshops, and family-friendly activities, discovering how the organ works and sparking curiosity. Full listing for the festival can be found here: https://bristol-cathedral.co.uk/whats-on/the-grand-organ-festival/
The Very Revd Dr Mandy Ford, Dean of Bristol, said:
“We are looking forward to celebrating one of the great treasures of Bristol Cathedral - our magnificent organ, an instrument that has filled the Cathedral with its beautiful sound since 1685. We are truly grateful for the skill of those who, down through the centuries, have played this instrument with sensitivity and understanding, enabling the worship and praise
of the whole community. Likewise, the extraordinary craftsmanship of those who built it, and have cared for it, and now restored it for generations to come.”
Mark Lee, Master of the Choristers and Organist, said:
“At its core, the function of any church organ is to support the worship in that place. When, in the last few decades, our Cathedral organ increasingly struggled to fulfil that function, the Organ Project was launched to rectify that situation. Now, in the coming weeks and months, we look forward to sharing with as many people as possible the full extent of the instrument’s capabilities.”
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