Throughout Play the Organ Year 2025, organists around the UK and overseas will be holding First
Encounter performances and Play the Organ sessions designed to allow anyone to experience this
remarkable instrument first hand. Click the map (or overseas button if not in the UK) below to find
events listed for your region.
Come and try out the amazing Peter Collins mechanical action organ at Greyfriars Kirk. Hear the organ, find out how it works, and have the opportunity to try playing it yourself!
Play the Usher Hall Organ!
Monday 9th June 2025 (14:00 – 15:00)
Usher Hall, Edinburgh
Short demonstration by John Kitchen of this amazing four-manual instrument, followed by an opportunity for those who would like to try playing it to do so!
North East England
Kids' Organ Prom: An afternoon at the movies!
Wednesday 28th May 2025 (14:00 – 15:00)
St George's Church, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne
Drew Cantrill-Fenwick plays popular movie themes on the 4-manual Lewis/Binns organ of St George's, Jesmond. The afternoon will include an introduction to the instrument, and there will be an opportunity to play the organ.
Institute of British Organ Building: National Organ Building Workshop Open Day
Wednesday 3rd September 2025 (10:00 – 16:00)
Harrison & Harrison Organ Builders, Durham
As part of Play the Organ Year 2025, organ builders across the country open their doors to the public, offering visitors a glimpse inside their workshops and an opportunity to learn more about the craft of organ building and the work involved in maintaining, restoring, and building pipe organs.
Drop in anytime throughout the day (10:00 - 16:00). There will be guided tours and free roam of the workshop.
Link: https://www.harrisonorgans.com
'Play the Organ' Day
Saturday 4th October 2025 (12:00 – 17:00)
New Victoria Centre, High Street, Howden le Wear, Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 8EZ.
Play the Organ session at one of the largest Wurlitzer theatre pipe organs in the UK. Both first time and experienced organists will be welcome to join DAVID LOWE & the team to explore all aspects of the playing and construction of the instrument and get advice relating to playing a theatre organ (plus, of course, a chance to 'have a go'!).
First Encounter Theatre Organ Concert with David Lowe at the Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ
Sunday 5th October 2025 (14:30)
New Victoria Centre, High Street, Howden le Wear, Crook, Co. Durham, DL15 8EZ.
A chance to hear the 3 manual 19 rank Wurlitzer organ in a special 'First Encounter' concert. David Lowe will explore the resources of one of the UK's largest Wurlitzer theatre pipe organs and explain details of how music is interpreted for the instrument, how the 174 stops of the organ are used to produce the different registrations which he uses and something of the technique of playing this type of organ. Non-players, and both first time and experienced organists will be welcome to join the audience and those interested in finding out more will be welcome to ask questions and arrange a session to play the organ if they wish. Admission by ticket (£12.00).
Link: https://www.netoa.org.uk
North West England
Come and play the organ
Saturday 26th April 2025 (11:00 – 16:00)
St Thomas's Parish Church, Mellor SK6 5LX
As part of the 'Play the Organ Year 2025' St Thomas's is inviting anyone who would like to have a go on the organ to come and give it a try. Any age and any standard - all welcome.
Come and play the organ
Saturday 26th April 2025 (11:00 – 16:00)
St Thomas's Parish Church, Mellor SK6 5LX
Open to anyone of any age and musical experience. Have a play on the organ, see inside it and hear it demonstrated by the church organist.
Yorkshire & Humberside
Help the organist
Sunday 27th April 2025 (10:30 – 12:00)
St John the Divine, Gooder Lane, Rastrick, Brighouse HD6 1HN
Join the organist at the console before/during/after the service, or any one of the three. You’ll be shown what everything does and you’ll get a chance to help out. You’ll see just what goes on at the organ. You’ll also have a chance to have a go at playing the instrument after the service. Despite appearances to the contrary you’ll also find that organists are just ordinary human beings and are perfectly capable of normal behaviour sometimes!
Come and Play the Organ
Saturday 17th May 2025 (10:00 – 14:00)
Doncaster Minster, 9 Church St, Doncaster DN1 1RD
Come and have a go on one of the largest pipe organs in Yorkshire! Anyone is welcome to try the organ even if you've never played one before, with the expert guidance of concert organist Tom Bell to help you explore this majestic instrument. Admittance is completely free and refreshments will be provided so do feel free to just turn up!
Come and Play the Organ
Sunday 25th May 2025 (14:00 – 15:30)
Sheffield Cathedral, Church St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 1HA
Come and have a go on the organ of Sheffield Cathedral this Sunday afternoon! This event is open to all, whether you've never played a piano before or are a seasoned organist already. Admission is completely free and unticketed, and our 1554 Café will be open for food and hot drinks, so do feel free to turn up on the day and bring the family along to experience the magic of the organ this half term!
This event is part of the South Yorkshire Organ Festival.
The Carnival of the Animals
Wednesday 28th May 2025 (19:00 – 20:00)
York Minster
'First Encounter' performance.
Hear the animal kingdom brought to life inside York Minster as young listeners are guided through Camille Saint-Saëns’ The Carnival of the Animals performed on the cathedral’s Grand Organ. The perfect introduction to classical music.
The familiar and accessible composition will be accompanied by a narrator sharing fun facts about the wild animals that roam through Saint-Saëns’ creation and York Minster’s history, and will include the chance to get up-close to the organ to see how the instrument is played.
The short, family-sized exploration of the organ, given by Benjamin Morris, will take place on Wednesday 28 May at 7pm.
Tickets
Tickets cost £7 for children and £10 for adults. A family ticket for two adults and two children is also available, priced at £30. Children over the age of 18 months need their own seat.
Tickets are available via yorkminster.org or by calling 01904 557200.
Link: https://yorkminster.org/whats-on/event/the-carnival-of-the-animals/
Leeds International Organ Festival Children's Recital with David Pipe
Ever wondered what it is like to play the organ? Come along, pull out all the stops and have a go! A hands on afternoon for children of all ages to try out the Cathedral organ with a little help from our organists. No musical experience needed.
Booking recommended to avoid disappointment. Please book each child for a 15 minute slot, to allow us to give each child a chance to play. There will also be other organ-related activities provided by the Derby and District Organists' Association, including a model organ and design your own organ case!
We finish with a concert of popular classics at 3.30pm, given by our Director of Music.
Come and play the organ!
Saturday 14th June 2025 (13:00 – 16:00)
St Peter’s Church, Elmton, Worksop, Notts, S80 4LU
Coinciding with the Elmton village Well Dressing and RHS open gardens weekend, take a walk into St Peter’s church on Saturday and Sunday afternoon to hear the beautiful original 1865 Brindley tracker action organ and have the opportunity to play it yourself!
West Midlands
Play the Organ Workshop
Saturday 26th April 2025 (11:00)
Broadway United Reformed Church, Gillity Avenue, Walsall, WS5 3PH
This free Play the Organ Year Workshop takes place on International Organ Day and is open to all irrespective of age or whether or not you have any previous musical experience. You will learn how our church's four-manual organ came to be built and how it makes sounds from the quietest to the loudest. There will be an opportunity, if you wish, to have a go at playing yourself.
Come and Play the Organ
Saturday 14th June 2025 (13:30 – 16:00)
Rugby School Chapel. Rugby CV22 5EH
An Opportunity to hear the recently improved Chapel Organ with a short tuneful recital and then an explanation of how it works. This will be followed by opportunities to play this and other Rugby School organs.
Link: https://www.covwarksorgan.org.uk/events/play-the-organ-year
Try the Organ Session
Saturday 23rd August 2025 (13:30 – 15:30)
St Mark's Church in the Cherry Orchard, Worcester WR5 3DW
Join us to play our pipe organ, aka "The King of Instruments". All are welcome to this free event in which everyone has the opportunity to play this remarkable instrument - open to all, regardless of musical experience or ability.
Institute of British Organ Building: National Organ Building Workshop Open Day
As part of Play the Organ Year 2025, organ builders across the country open their doors to the public, offering visitors a glimpse inside their workshops and an opportunity to learn more about the craft of organ building and the work involved in maintaining, restoring, and building pipe organs. Drop in anytime throughout the day (10:00 - 16:00). There will be guided tours and free roam of the workshop.
Link: https://www.nicholsonorgans.co.uk
Play the Organ!
Monday 27th October 2025 (14:00 – 16:00)
Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, 200 Jennens Road, Birmingham B4 7XR
Teenage pianists from grade 3 level upwards are invited to join Royal Birmingham Conservatoire's Head of Organ Daniel Moult and Royal College of Organists' Regional Director Simon Williams for an introduction to playing the King of Instruments using the Conservatoire's inspiring new organs. You will be taught in two graded groups of up to six players. Only 12 places are available and they are free of charge! To book your free place or to make an enquiry email events@rco.org.uk stating whether you are grade 3 - 4 level or grade 5 and above on the piano/keyboard (you don't need to have taken an exam to attend).
Wales
150th Anniversary Celebrations at Llangattock-Vibon-Avel
Saturday 26th April 2025 (09:00 – 17:00)
St Cadoc's Llangattock-Vibon-Avel
Join us to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the installation of the pipe organ and the restoration of St Cadoc's church, and find out about the on-going organ repair project.
Drop by between 9am and 5pm on Saturday 26th April to take a tour inside the 1875 W.G. Vowles pipe organ which has been (mostly) restored after being out of action for decades due to water damage. Come and admire the amazing craftmanship of this wonderful instrument and talk to the team involved in restoring it. Bring some music as visitors will be able to play the organ for themselves (no prior experience required!).
Link: https://friendsoffriendlesschurches.org.uk/event/150th-anniversary-celebrations-at-llangattock-vibon-avel/
Eastern England
Open Organ Day!
Saturday 26th April 2025 (13:00)
St Peter Mancroft Church Norwich NR2 1QQ
Join us at St Peter Mancroft Church to hear - and play - our remarkable Peter Collins pipe organ. All are welcome to this free event, with the opportunity to play this amazing instrument under expert guidance. Already learning the organ, or want to try it for the first time? This session is open to all, regardless of musical experience or ability - great for families.
Link: https://www.stpetermancroft.org.uk/rco-open-organ-day
S W Herts - Try your hand at our pipe organ
Saturday 7th June 2025 – Wednesday 31st December 2025
St. Paul’s Church, Chipperfield, Hertfordshire WD4 9BS
Never played the organ before (or possibly any other instrument!) / used to playing the piano/starting out on the organ? If so, our church will aim to arrange a mutually convenient time for you to experience playing our fine, three manual and pedal, 40-stop organ with historic pipe-work. Contact Stephen Morrill at smorrill26@outlook.com for further details and to book a guided 30-minute session free of charge. Experienced organists are also invited to try our organ.
Link: mailto:Smorrill26@outlook.com
South East England
S W Herts - Try your hand at our pipe organ
Tuesday 18th March 2025 – Wednesday 31st December 2025
St. Paul’s Church, Chipperfield, Hertfordshire WD4 9BS
Never played the organ before (or possibly any other instrument!) / used to playing the piano/starting out on the organ? If so, our church will aim to arrange a mutually convenient time for you to experience playing our fine, three manual and pedal, 40-stop organ with historic pipe-work. Contact Stephen Morrill at smorrill26@outlook.com for further details and to book a guided 30-minute session free of charge. Experienced organists are also invited to try our organ.
Link: mailto:Smorrill26@outlook.com
Link: mailto:Smorrill26@outlook.com
International Organ Day Celebtration
Saturday 26th April 2025 (10:00 – 12:00)
Beckenham Baptist Church, Elm Road, Beckenham, BR3 4JB
You are warmly invited to join us on Sat 26th April to celebrate International Organ Day and Play the Organ Year!
Programme:
10.00 Doors open, tea/coffee
10.15 Welcome & film on how the organ works
10.30 Refreshments / opportunity for anyone to try the organ
11.00 Informal composite recital by organ students (organ console projected onto a big screen)
12.00 Farewell!
RCO "Play the Organ Year"
Saturday 26th April 2025 (12:30 – 14:30)
Chapel Royal, Hampton Court Palace
Part of the Royal College of Organists 'Play the Organ Year' and on International Organ Day, we will hold a celebration of the chapel organ on Saturday 26th April, led by Joshua Simoes, our Assistant Director of Music. We will begin with the organ in its prinicple liturgical context as Mr Simoes accompanies the Eucharist at 1230. This is followed by a talk on how the organ works (with some show-and-tell!) and some of the history of our instrument. All is concluded with a short recital. You are welcome to join for the service, which is free as all of our services are, and to stay for the talk and recital.
Link: https://www.chapelroyalhamptoncourt.org.uk/
Play the Organ Workshop and Recital
Saturday 26th April 2025 (14:00 – 15:30)
Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church, 235 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8EP
This free Play the Organ Year Workshop, promoted by the Royal College of Organists and taking place on International Organ Day, is open to all irrespective of age or whether or not you have any previous musical experience. You will learn how 'The King of Instruments' makes sounds from the quietest whisper to the loudest roar and there will be an opportunity, if you wish, to have a go at playing yourself - even if you are a complete beginner. The workshop is led by internationally renowned performer and teacher Jermiah Stephenson, Associate Director of Music at All Saints' Church Margaret Street and Organ Education lead at St Paul's Cathedral who follows it at 16.00 (ends c. 17.00) with a recital (admission free/retiring collection). Refreshments will be available between the workshop and the recital and after the recital.
Link: https://ptoybloomsbury.eventbrite.co.uk/
Join us to hear - and play - our remarkable pipe organ, known as ‘the King of Instruments’. This free event is open to children in years 4 to 8, who will hear the organ in action, and then have the opportunity to play this remarkable instrument – open to all, regardless of musical experience or ability!
Hertford College Organ Experience
Wednesday 30th April 2025 (17:00 – 18:30)
Hertford College, Oxford
First experience sessions led by current Oxford organ scholars comprising an interactive workshop introducing students to the organ, a brief recital given by one of our organ scholars, and a chance for students to play the organ in small groups.
Link: https://hertfordorgan.com/
Alfold Plant & Cake Sale - Play the Organ - A Hands-On Experience
Saturday 3rd May 2025 (10:30 – 12:30)
St Nicholas Church, Alfold, Surrey, GU6 8EU
Experience the magic of the pipe organ at the 12th century, St Nicholas Church, Alfold, as part of the much-loved annual Alfold Plant and Cake Sale on Saturday, 3rd May 2025, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Step inside the church to discover the instrument’s power and versatility, and even try playing it yourself! Whether you're a musician or just curious, this hands-on event invites you to appreciate the beauty of the organ in a unique and interactive way. Don't miss this special opportunity to enjoy live music alongside the vibrant community atmosphere of the plant and cake sale. #playtheorgan
Link: https://www.alflox.org/
Hertford College Organ Experience
Saturday 3rd May 2025 (11:00 – 12:30)
Hertford College, Oxford
Sessions are led by current Oxford organ scholars, comprising an interactive workshop introducing students to the organ, a brief recital given by one of our organ scholars, and a chance for students to play the organ in small groups.
Link: https://hertfordorgan.com/
Come and have a go and a listen
Saturday 10th May 2025 (10:00 – 13:00)
All Saints Woodford Wells, Inmans Row, Woodford Green IG8 0NH
A Saturday morning where all ages can come and have a go and listen and have a chat. The church Atrium cafe will be open for refreshments. Limited parking on site Buses W13 179 20 Bus stop Monkhams Lane
Hertford College Organ Experience
Saturday 10th May 2025 (11:00 – 12:30)
Hertford College, Oxford
Sessions are led by current Oxford organ scholars, comprising an interactive workshop introducing students to the organ, a brief recital given by one of our organ scholars, and a chance for students to play the organ in small groups.
Link: https://hertfordorgan.com/
Hertford College Organ Experience
Wednesday 14th May 2025 (17:00 – 18:30)
Hertford College, Oxford
Sessions are led by current Oxford organ scholars, comprising an interactive workshop introducing students to the organ, a brief recital given by one of our organ scholars, and a chance for students to play the organ in small groups.
Link: https://hertfordorgan.com/
Have a go on the organ!
Saturday 24th May 2025 (10:00 – 13:30)
St Mary of Charity, Church Road, Faversham, Kent ME13 8GZ
With the help and supervision of our wonderful church organist, come and play the historic St Mary of Charity church organ. Everyone is welcome, regardless of your level of experience. Even if you haven't played before Patti will help you pick out a simple tune. Each slot will be 15 minutes with the aim to enjoy your chance to play this unique instrument.
Children under 16 are welcome to play, but will need to have a parent/guardian with them.
There will be 15 minutes slots starting at 10.30 and finishing at 1.15, with only one person per slot. There is a charge of £5 per person. Advance booking is essential.
Link: https://openfaversham.info/?event=1774
Come and hear the organ - and then have a go yourself
Saturday 21st June 2025 (11:00 – 13:00)
St Mary's Church, Chartham near Canterbury, Kent, CT4 7JW
A concert will take place between 11.00 and 12.00. This will introduce the organ as an instrument and will feature a range of organ music. From 12.00 onwards the organ will be available for members of the audience to play, with guidance provided if needed. £5 admission, including coffee and cake from 10.15 onwards. There is no charge for those aged under 18.
Link: https://www.stmaryschartham.org/Groups/369355/Events_Posters.aspx
Play Like a Girl
Saturday 6th September 2025 (10:30 – 15:30)
St Giles Cripplegate, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DA
A unique opportunity to learn more about the organ as part of Play the Organ Year 2025, whatever your ability or experience.
The event will include performance opportunities, inspiring guest speakers, and the chance to meet other young organists.
Contact societyofwomenorganists@gmail.com to book your free place. Open to girls and women aged 11-21.
Link: https://www.societyofwomenorganists.co.uk
Monken Hadley Organ Day
Saturday 13th September 2025 (10:00)
St Mary's Church, Monken Hadley, Barnet EN5 5QD
Open Day from 10.00 am with demonstrations and hands on opportunities to play. Activities for young and old, experienced and those new to the organ. Bring an easy piano piece if you wish. The day will end with an organ recital at 7.00 pm. Free entry, donations welcome.
Link: https://www.monkenhadley.church
Heritage Open Day Play the Organ event
Saturday 13th September 2025 (10:30 – 16:30)
Reading Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QH
Reading Town Hall’s Father Willis Heritage Open Day event this year is bigger and better to celebrate the Royal College of Organists’ ‘Play the Organ Year 2025’.Spend the whole day with us, or drop in at any time, and enjoy a variety of organ events from an illustrated introductory talk, a lunchtime recital, the chance to ‘have-a-go’ and a masterclass with organist, Tom Bell, to more ‘specialist’ talks from organ builder, Bruce Buchanan, organ consultant, Nicholas Thistlethwaite and Managing Director of Harrison & Harrison, Andrew Scott - there is plenty for everyone.
Whether you are already an organist, or are simply curious, come along and spend the day with our majestic Father Willis Organ. This is a free event but donations are appreciated.
In collaboration with:
Royal College of Organists’ ‘Play the Organ Year 2025’
Berkshire Organists’ Association
The British Institute of Organ Studies
Incorporated Association of Organists
Institute of British Organ Building
Harrison & Harrison Ltd
Society of Women Organists
Reading Borough Council
Link: https://whatsonreading.com/reading-town-hall-organ-heritage-open-day
Join us to hear - and play - the remarkable Christchurch Priory pipe organ.
This 'King of Instruments' will be on show for this free event, featuring music for all ages and tastes, along with the rare opportunity to play this remarkable instrument.
Open to all*, regardless musical experience. (*Under-18's must be accompanied by a parent/carer)
Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/e/5ZZdPxSRTP
Link: https://www.christchurchpriory.org/services-and-events
International Organ Day
Saturday 26th April 2025 (11:00 – 14:00)
St John the Evangelist, Taunton
A recital of organ music plus a varied mixture of choral and other instrumental pieces accompanied by the magnificent Father Willis organ to show case its versatility. Then from midday a chance for all comers to have a go on the organ themselves.
Link: https://www.stjohnstaunton.org.uk/
Join us to hear - and play - the remarkable Christchurch Priory pipe organ.
This 'King of Instruments' will be on show for this free event, featuring music for all ages and tastes, along with the rare opportunity to play this remarkable instrument.
Open to all*, regardless musical experience. (*Under-18's must be accompanied by a parent/carer)
Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/e/5ZZdPxSRTP
Link: https://www.christchurchpriory.org/services-and-events
Play the Organ Workshop
Saturday 26th April 2025 (14:00 – 15:30)
St Andrew's URC, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1SP
Join Simon Williams, RCO Director for East, South, and South West England and members of the Gloucestershire Association of Organists to hear live organ music played, learn how the organ works and have-a-go yourself. All ages welcome. Free admission. Refreshments served.
Link: https://gloucestershireorganists.org/category/events/
Play the Organ Year 2025
Saturday 7th June 2025 (02:00)
St Mary's Charminster Nr Dorchester Dorset
Open to both young people and adults from 2pm to 5pm approximately.
Play the Organ Year 2025
Saturday 7th June 2025 (02:00 – 05:00)
St Mary's Charminster Nr Dorchester Dorset
Limited parking .Charminster Fete is taking place on the same afternoon. However, this event is open to all young people and adults alike with professional advice and tuition.
The King of Instruments: a concert for children
Sunday 6th July 2025 (11:00 – 12:00)
Christ Church, Christchurch Street West, Frome, BA11 1EH Somerset
Come to hear ten very short, different pieces of music played by Ann Burgess on the pedal organ and box organ at Christ Church. Guided listening. This Frome Festival concert will last 25-30 minutes. Then early pianists can try playing a short piece on the beautiful box organ themselves until time runs out! Bring your music. £3 per child, free for adults but donations to church funds welcome. No unaccompanied children. (Part of the Royal College of Organists "Play the Organ Year" initiative.)
Northern Ireland
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Republic of Ireland
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Overseas / Non UK
International Pipe Organ Day 2025
Saturday 26th April 2025 (13:00 – 15:00)
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
The Victoria Centre of the Royal Canadian College of Organists (RCCO) needs your help on April 26th, 2025 International Organ Day, to set a record for the most people playing an organ between 1:00 and 3:00 pm at designated venues in Victoria, BC. This is a no cost event, open to all and especially to keyboard players of any level.
Link: https://www.rcco-victoria.org/event-details-registration/international-organ-day
