Hear the Cathedral's Organ Sing Again with Gusto!
Widely regarded as one of the most significant instruments of its kind in North America, Christ Church Cathedral's organ was built in 2005 and has had over 20,000 hours of daily use in the years since. This summer, it got some much-deserved TLC: under the expert guidance of Montreal-based organ builders Juget-Sinclair, all 4,000 organ pipes were cleaned and regulated, while its mechanical and electrical components were carefully restored. This will ensure that the organ can continue to sing for years to come. To celebrate the completion of this important work, made possible by generous donations from the public, Christ Church Cathedral invites you to attend a packed program of musical events and services this fall – including performances by celebrated musicians from near and far.
Many of these events centre around the weekend of 2-4 October 2026, when the organ will be formally rededicated. On Friday October 2nd at 12:30pm, the cathedral's very own Assistant Director of Music, Mark McDonald, will be giving a lunchtime recital alongside renowned Calgary-based trumpeter, Adam Zinatelli. Then, on Saturday October 3rd at 12pm, Juget-Sinclair's Alex Ross will speak to the unique process for this organ's restoration. For both of these events, admission is by donation. This will be followed by an evening concert on Saturday October 3rd by Jan Liebermann, an internationally-acclaimed organist; tickets are on sale now. To conclude the weekend, during Evensong on Sunday October 4th, the organ will be rededicated and the cathedral musicians will offer the world premiere of a newly commissioned work by celebrated British composer David Bednall. All are most warmly welcome to attend Evensong and, as with all the cathedral's services, no tickets are required.
This Labour Day, you are also invited to attend a concert performed by the Choir of Merton College, Oxford, who are widely known as one of the most exciting university choirs in the UK. Additionally, on Friday September 18th at 12:30pm, there will be a lunchtime organ concert with renowned Danish musician, Tina Christiansen. For both these musical events, admission is by donation.
Later in the fall on Friday October 30th, the cathedral will also host a screening of the 1925 silent movie The Phantom of the Opera, accompanied by spectacular live music from organ virtuoso David Briggs. This will be another opportunity to hear the kaleidoscopic colours of the organ under expert hands. Tickets are on sale now.
Donald Hunt, Director of Music at Christ Church Cathedral, said:
"We are delighted that this important restoration is now complete and the organ is sounding as beautiful as ever thanks to the skilled team at Juget-Sinclair and the many supporters who made this possible. We can't wait to pull out all the stops and showcase this extraordinary instrument in all its glory!"
The Very Reverend Jonathan Thomas, Dean and Rector of Christ Church Cathedral, added:
“Whether you're a regular worshiper here or are stepping into the cathedral and experiencing the organ for the very first time, we hope you will join us this fall to experience this inspired program of music. All are welcome."
Please click here to find out more about all upcoming events, services and concerts.