Heavy metal, improvisation, and wild animals: York Minster’s 2025 organ programme

Acclaimed musicians from across the musical world are ready to pull out all the stops in a diverse programme of organ concerts at York Minster.

The cathedral’s popular Summer Organ Recitals will return with celebrated soloists joining York Minster’s own accomplished organists. The series will be opened by Wayne Marshall OBE, a world-renowned conductor and master of improvisation who will include some of his own compositions alongside classics and live improvisations in his dazzling style. He will be followed by Jan Liebermann, one of the most promising young artists in the organ world who is well-known for his ability to play complex pieces entirely from memory; Daniel Cook, a performer with a unique understanding of early-twentieth-century organs like York Minster’s having recorded the complete works of many classic British organ composers; and Carolyn Craig, an award-winning American organist who champions female composers as the co-founder of the platform Amplify Female Composers.

York Minster’s own acclaimed musicians – Robert Sharpe, Director of Music, and Benjamin Morris, Assistant Director of Music, who are both experienced soloists performing in the UK and abroad – complete the line-up for six nights of spectacular organ music. The recitals will take place on Thursday evenings from 17 July to 21 August, beginning at 7pm. Tickets are now available via the York Minster website, starting from just £7.50.

Following sold out performances of The Nutcracker and Peter and the Wolf, York Minster will also be offering another family-sized exploration of the organ. Young listeners will be guided through Camille Saint-Saëns’ The Carnival of the Animals with the chance to get up-close to the organ to see how the instrument is played. 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. The short performance, given by Benjamin Morris, will take place on Wednesday 28 May.

The Summer Organ Recitals and family organ concert will follow the upcoming Organic Metal showcase which will see David Pipe, former Assistant Director of Music at York Minster, performing classics from Black Sabbath and Deep Purple on York Minster’s Grand Organ alongside classical organ pieces. Plague of Angels, an electro-symphonic-metal powerhouse, will present their own heavy metal music enhanced by the power and grandeur of the organ. Tickets for Organic Metal sold out in less than a week, with more than 10% of attendees benefitting from a discounted ticket for those aged 27 and under.

Robert Sharpe, Director of Music at York Minster, said: “Organ music has played a central role in worship at York Minster for nearly 1,000 years. We have carefully crafted a programme of concerts and recitals that reflects this long and important history, but that also displays the incredible diversity of the organ and those who play and listen to it.

“We have a fantastic line-up of guest soloists set to perform at our Summer Organ Recitals, all of whom will showcase our Grand Organ in a different way. I am looking forward to hearing them perform at this fourth series of concerts since the organ’s expert refurbishment by Harrison & Harrison.

“The heavy metal concert and performance of The Carnival of the Animals complete our 2025 organ concert offering, which we hope will encourage people to engage with the instrument in new and exciting ways.

“I am very proud that we are once again able to offer discounted tickets for students and those aged 27 and under to allow as many people as possible to attend the concerts.

“Do join us for what promises to be another great year of organ music at York Minster.”

Tickets and event information:  

Organic Metal: presented by Plague of Angels
Friday 25 April, 7.30pm
Tickets for this event have sold out.

The Carnival of the Animals
Wednesday 28 May, 7pm
Tickets priced at £7 children, £10 for adults, and £30 for families will be available via www.yorkminster.org in April.

Summer Organ Recitals
Thursdays 17 July – 21 August, 7pm
Tickets for the recitals are available now via www.yorkminster.org priced at £15, with a combined season ticket price of £75 for all six recitals. A concessionary price of £7.50 for those aged 27 and under is also available, as well as a combined season ticket price of £38.

Beneath the Cross: Lent, Holy Week & Easter at York Minster

York Minster has today announced its programme of services, events and activities to mark Lent, Holy Week and Easter 2025.

The Lent Cross, the central symbol of the Christian Faith, will be suspended from the Central Tower on Shrove Tuesday and will remain in place until The Day of Pentecost. The six metres tall installation, constructed from wooden scaffolding boards in the Minster’s workshop, serves as a visual reminder throughout the season of Jesus’ journey to the cross and beyond.

Beginning on Ash Wednesday (5 March), Christians in York and across the world will keep a season of penitence culminating in the observance of Holy Week. This week recalls the passion, crucifixion and burial of Jesus, and on Easter Day (20 April) the joyful celebration of his resurrection from the dead.

The Very Reverend Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “The journey through Lent and Holy Week to Easter is tumultuous. We follow Jesus through periods of fear, betrayal, persecution and death, but also through friendship, hope, trust and glorious resurrection. At York Minster, we follow this journey from beneath the great cross that hangs in the cathedral’s nave. At a time when we live with so much uncertainty in our lives, the cross reminds us of the certain promise of God’s enduring and undying love for the world.

“I am thrilled that the Reverend Canon James Walters, founding director of the London School of Economics’ Faith Centre, will be joining us in Holy Week to deliver a sermon series called Bearing Fruit from the Seed that Dies. A leading expert in interfaith leadership and religious literacy, he will bring a unique perspective to the story of Christ’s passion at a time of considerable global upheaval.

“I hope that many will join us both in person and online for our worship through this holy season, and will discover anew the power of this, the ultimate story of redemption and resurrection.”

Key events and services are:

Ash Wednesday – Wednesday 5 March 
The Minster will be given to prayer and worship on Ash Wednesday. All are welcome, whether to join acts of worship, to pray on their own or to experience the space.
Services with Imposition of Ashes:
7.50am: Holy Communion with Imposition of Ashes
12.30pm: Holy Communion with Imposition of Ashes
5.30pm: Choral Eucharist with Imposition of Ashes (with Allegri’s Miserere)

Lent Compline – Thursdays 13 March – 10 April, 8.30pm  
On Thursdays during Lent (other than on Thursday 6 March), The Ebor Singers, an associate choir of York Minster, will sing Compline in the Quire.
The ancient monastic service of Compline is a contemplative, candle-lit moment of stillness and simplicity. This form of night prayer brings the day to a close and prepares us for sleep in the knowledge we are known and loved by God. Traditionally after this service we are encouraged to enter into a period of silence.

Handel’s Messiah – Saturday 22 March, 7pm  
Experience George Frideric Handel’s glorious Messiah performed by the world-renowned Choir of York Minster in the cathedral’s awe-inspiring Nave, alongside an accomplished orchestra and celebrated soloists.

Minster Mash-Up: Mothering Sunday – Saturday 29 March, 10am
At this special event, families are invited to join a short service where we give thanks for those who mother us and for our Minster, the Mother Church of the Northern Province.

Holy Week sermon series from the Director of the LSE Faith Centre
The Reverend Canon James Walters, Director of the Faith Centre at the London School of Economics will preach throughout Holy Week, offering a series of sermons entitled Bearing Fruit from the Seed that Dies, based on the fruits of the Spirit from the fifth chapter of the Epistle to the Galatians.
Themed sermons will be given at the following services:
‘Love’ at the Procession and Eucharist for Palm Sunday, 13 April
‘Joy’ at Midday Eucharist and Compline, Monday 14 April
‘Peace’ at Compline, Tuesday 15 April
‘Patience’ at Midday Eucharist and Compline, Wednesday 16 April
‘Kindness’ at the Sung Eucharist with Washing of Feet, Thursday 17 April
‘Generosity, Faithfulness & Gentleness’ at The Three Hours’ Devotion with the Liturgy of Good Friday, Friday 18 April
‘Self control’ at The Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter, Saturday 19 April

Palm Sunday – Sunday 13 April  
Palm Sunday is the first day of Holy Week and the Sunday before Easter Day. On this day, we commemorate Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem and reflect upon the Passion story.
Procession and Eucharist for Palm Sunday, 10.30am 
The service begins outside the Minster with the blessing of palm crosses before the congregation, led by a donkey, processes into the cathedral as a reminder of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. The service then turns from triumph to sorrow as the Choir of York Minster sings the Passion Gospel, marking the beginning of Jesus’ journey towards the cross.
Choral Evensong, 4pm 
A service of Choral Evensong which prepares us for our walk with Christ through Holy Week.
Stainer’s Crucifixion, 7.30pm
The Ebor Singers, an associate choir of York Minster, will perform John Stainer’s Crucifixion. The work incorporates congregational hymns with a recounting of the passion of Christ.

Compline in Holy Week, Monday 14, Tuesday 15 & Wednesday 16 April, 7.30pm  
This beautiful candlelit service of night prayer or ‘compline’ will be sung by The Ebor Singers, an associate choir of York Minster. Compline is a form of prayer said at the completion of the day, and traditionally after this service we are encouraged to enter into a period of silence.

Chrism Eucharist – Tuesday 15 April, 11am
The Chrism Eucharist takes its name from Chrismation (anointing). The Archbishop of York will preach and will bless the oils used at services of baptism, confirmation, and ordination and for healing. The Archbishop will gather clergy from around the Diocese to renew the vows made at their ordinations, remembering the ministry to which they are called.

Maundy Thursday – Thursday 17 April 
Sung Eucharist with Washing of Feet, 7pm
The Liturgy of Maundy Thursday recalls the final meal Jesus shared with his disciples in the upper room, before his arrest and trial. We remember too that Jesus called us to love and serve one another through the washing of feet. As we bless and share bread and wine, we follow his command to proclaim his death until he comes in glory.
The Watch, 8.30pm
The Watch follows the Maundy Thursday Liturgy. The Watch – a type of vigil – recalls the time Jesus spent in the Garden of Gethsemane before his arrest, trial and crucifixion.

Good Friday, Friday 18 April  
On Good Friday, Christians remember the crucifixion of Jesus. The Minster will be given to prayer and worship on Good Friday. All are welcome, whether to join acts of worship, to pray on their own or to experience the space.
Good Friday Family Service, 10am  
A service for all the family reflecting on the events of Good Friday and on hope in the face of loss.
The Three Hours’ Devotion with the Liturgy of Good Friday, 12noon 
We begin the Three Hours’ Devotion with a service of meditation, music and prayers with periods of silence and addresses. At 1.30pm, the formal Liturgy of Good Friday will commence with the singing of the Passion, prayers of intercession and the veneration of the cross.
Choral Evensong for Good Friday, 5.30pm  
During this service the Choir of York Minster will sing Antonio Lotti’s anthem for 8 voices, Crucifixus etiam pro nobis, a traditional passiontide piece.

Holy Saturday – Saturday 19 April  
The Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter, 8pm
This Eucharist moves from darkness to light. We recall God’s saving actions through time, culminating in the Resurrection in the light of the first Easter Day.
The Easter Vigil marks the end of the emptiness of Holy Saturday, and leads into the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. The Archbishop of York with preside at this service and candidates will reaffirm their faith through confirmation.

Easter Day, Sunday 20 April 
On Easter Day, Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion. The Minster will be given to prayer and worship on Easter Sunday. All are welcome, whether to join acts of worship, to pray on their own or to experience the space.
Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer, 8am  
A simple said service in the traditional language of the Book of Common Prayer.
Choral Matins on Easter Day, 10am 
Following the pattern of Matins from the Book of Common Prayer, with sung psalms, canticles and an anthem.
Festal Eucharist, 11am
We greet the risen Lord with joy, proclaiming Alleluia, Christ is risen, He is risen indeed! The Archbishop of York will preach and preside at this service.
Festal Evensong, 4pm 
A great day of rejoicing culminates in an uplifting service of Choral Evensong.

“Let there be light” – 184 solar panels blessed on the roof of York Minster

184 solar panels on the roof of York Minster will be switched on for the first time on 9 January 2025 during a blessing ceremony led by the Dean of York.

The discreetly placed panels, installed over the last four months on the south Quire roof, will generate 70,000 kWh of energy, enough to deliver a third of the Minster’s electricity requirements. This is the fourth solar installation on the Minster estate, which together will generate 120,000 kWh of energy per year – enough to power 41 average UK homes.

The solar panel installation is one of many projects underway across the Minster as part of its Neighbourhood Plan, which was adopted in 2022 following 32 weeks of public consultation. The plan, which has recently attracted international awards for innovation, is designed to address the challenges of the 21st century, principally responding to the climate emergency and the impacts of climate change on the fragile masterpiece that is York Minster’s 800-year-old building.

Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct at York Minster, explained: “Extreme weather, brought about by climate change is the greatest threat to the fabric of York Minster. These solar panels signify a significant step forward in our decarbonisation journey and is a significant project of our Neighbourhood Plan.

“This project joins our existing solar slates on the York Minster Refectory, solar panels at the Heritage Quad and solar film on the Works & Technology Hub, to help reduce our energy consumption by a third – a huge leap forward toward a net zero future.

“The closing statement of COP29 reminded us of the perilous state of our climate when the UN Secretary General noted ‘COP29 comes at the close of a brutal year – a year seared by record temperatures, and scarred by climate disaster, all as emissions continue to rise’.

“Our adopted Neighbourhood Plan is delivering ambitious change in our estate as we take bold action to get our buildings to net zero. These renewable energy systems, together with retrofit to insulate our buildings and reduce energy consumption, should be celebrated as a major step forward and show that it if we can do it at York Minster, everyone can and should.”

All is calm, all is bright – all is green – at York Minster this Advent

York Minster’s Advent Procession will mark the start of Advent and look forward to the coming of the light in the world, as well as showcasing its commitment to address the climate emergency when its iconic west front will be illuminated for the first time by new energy-efficient lighting.

The installation of the Minster’s new external LED lighting scheme is complemented by 184 new solar panels, currently being installed on its south quire roof, which will reduce the Minster’s energy consumption by around a third.

The lighting scheme, paid for by the Minster and City of York Council, has been designed to minimise light pollution, ensuring that the Minster’s medieval west front retains its prominence on the city’s skyline well into the night without disturbing the neighbours.

The Very Reverend Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “Every year, our Advent Procession starts in darkness with just a single candle illuminating the building.

“This year, the light will spread out into the city as the west front lights blaze to life, turning the Minster into a beacon shining over the historic City of York.’

The switch-on of the new lighting scheme has been timed to coincide with Advent Sunday in a season the Church of England has themed ‘Calm and Bright’.

Inside the Minster, worshippers will also be in darkness until a single candle is lit and the flame shared around everyone present until the building is illuminated by hundreds of candles from those gathered within.

There will be more lights on display inside the building for Advent with the launch of the Minster’s Christmas Tree Festival which opens with a light switch-on at ‘Minster Mash-Up’, York Minster’s special service for children and families, on Saturday 30 November at 10am. The Festival is open during general admission times until 5 January.

The Dean added: ‘This year, the light will spread further still as the Minster’s Nave, Chapter House, Lady Chapel and north quire aisle will be illuminated by over seventy Christmas trees, each decorated and lit by charities, schools and organisations from across the city.

Entry to the Minster is free for all who wish to light a candle and say a prayer. You can find the Minster’s Advent and Christmas programme in full here yorkminster.org.

York Minster’s Advent Procession will take place on Sunday 1 December 5.30pm and can be watched live on the Minster’s YouTube channel.

National Schools Singing Programme raises the Wreath at York Minster

As doors up and down the country are being decorated with Advent wreaths of holly and ivy to the sounds of Michael Bublé or Carols from Kings, York Minster’s talented Flower Arrangers are preparing to do much the same, but both the wreath and the backing track need to be a little bigger to fill the Minster’s cavernous central crossing.

Fortunately, the expert team will be joined by children from the Minster’s Schools Singing Programme to raise the spectacular 3-metre wide Advent Wreath during a special event on 29 November at 11.30am.

The installation of 184 solar panels on the roof of York Minster is underway

184 solar panels are being installed on York Minster’s roof in a major step towards reducing the carbon footprint of one of the largest cathedral estates in the world. The solar panels are expected to generate nearly 70,000 kWh of energy each year, around a third of the Minster’s total energy consumption, reducing annual carbon emissions by approximately 13 tonnes of CO₂.

The panels, which are currently being installed on the South Quire roof, join a raft of other solar initiatives already generating electricity across the precinct. In 2021, York Minster secured planning permission and Listed Building Consent to install the first solar slates on a Grade II Listed Building within York. The roof formed part of the York Minster Refectory, which was opened by His Majesty King Charles III in April 2023. By the end of 2024, the cathedral will be producing 118,000 kWh of energy per year, enough to power 44 average UK homes.

Harnessing solar energy is a cornerstone of the Minster’s drive to reduce its carbon footprint in line with the Church of England’s ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030. The installation is one of many ground-breaking projects taking place across the precinct as part of its Neighbourhood Plan, which was adopted in 2022 following public referendum and 32 weeks of public consultation. The Plan recently attracted an award for “Innovator of the Year” at the Future for Religious Heritage, the European network for historic places of worship. At its heart, the Plan is an unflinching commitment to address the climate emergency with an ambition to decarbonise the precinct through extensive retrofit and the introduction of renewables.

Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct, said: “I think we all realise the scale of the challenges facing the world at the moment. I am pleased that the Minster is taking great strides to tackle these challenges, making generational, large-scale changes across the Minster Precinct to combat climate change by reducing our dependency on fossil fuels.

“Doing this requires a real team effort, whether it is our Works Department adapting to new, more sustainable workspaces and equipment, or our Gardens Team creating new green spaces for the public to enjoy.

“I am really proud of how, at every level of the Minster’s operation, we are rising to the challenge of Net Zero by 2030.”

Through close partnership working with City of York Council, Historic England and other key stakeholders, the Minster has created a suite of bespoke planning policies enabling other initiatives, including the retrofitting of many of the historic buildings under the Minster’s care, to improve their energy efficiency, a water recycling system for the Minster’s new stone-cutting saws, the introduction of electric car chargers, and improvements to the green spaces around the Minster.

York Minster to host inaugural Desmond Tutu Annual Memorial Lecture

The Revd Nontombi Tutu, Episocopal priest and human rights activist, daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, will lead the inaugural Desmond Tutu Annual Memorial Lecture at York Minster on Tuesday 17 September.

The lecture, which will take place in the cathedral’s Nave, is entitled ‘Truth, The Path to Reconciliation’. Revd Nontombi will draw upon scholarly perspectives, particularly from Africa and the global majority world, to deepen comprehension and inspire action towards dismantling oppressive structures and nurturing just communities. The event aims to provide a forum for critical reflection on the intersection of religion and social justice.

In tribute to Desmond Tutu’s legacy of scholarly reflection and contemplation, the Desmond Tutu Centre for Religion and Social Justice at the University of Western Cape and United Society Partners in the Gospel (USPG) have established an annual Desmond Tutu Memorial Lecture on Religion and Social Justice. In future years, distinguished speakers and thought leaders will be invited to examine contemporary issues through the lens of Archbishop Tutu’s enduring legacy. Drawing upon scholarly perspectives, particularly from Africa and the global majority world, the lecture series aims to deepen comprehension and inspire action toward dismantling oppressive structures and nurturing just communities.

The Very Revd Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “It is an honour and delight to host the inaugural Desmond Tutu Annual Memorial Lecture at York Minster. Archbishop Tutu was a unique prophetic voice in the apartheid era of his native South Africa, with a legacy that lives on across the globe.

“In an age when we continue to be conscious of so many injustices that blight the lives of people near and far, we are delighted to welcome Revd Nontombi Tutu to educate and challenge us in this first lecture in honour of her father’s work.”

The Revd Canon Dr Peniel Rajkumar at USPG said: “We are delighted that our inaugural lecture has a speaker of Revd Nontombi’s high calibre, and I am very much looking forward to hearing her wisdom. It is our hope that by annually convening scholars, theologians, activists, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds, in the UK and in South Africa, that this lecture series will cultivate critical inquiry, collaboration, and collective action toward a more just and compassionate world.”

The event, which will begin at 7pm, is free to attend. Doors will open at 6.30pm and attendees are encouraged to register their interest via the USPG website HERE.

Traditional services, beautiful Christmas Trees and spectacular concerts

York Minster is preparing to mark Advent and Christmas with a programme of new services and events for 2024, alongside returning seasonal favourites, family-friendly activities and a festival of Christmas Trees.

From moments of quiet reflection, away from the hustle and bustle of York’s festive streets, to the cathedral’s most popular events of the year, the special services, events and activities will celebrate the season’s themes of anticipation, hope and joy.

The season begins on Advent Sunday (1 December), with the spectacular Advent Procession. Starting in complete darkness, the cathedral is gradually illuminated by candlelight as the Choir of York Minster moves through the building to readings from the Bible. Daily worship throughout Advent and Christmas will include prayers, music and readings as the season progresses.

Christmas week worship includes the Crib Service (24 December), Nine Lessons and Carols (22 and 24 December) and Midnight Mass (24 December). The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, will preach at the Sung Eucharist for Christmas Day at 11am (25 December).

From Saturday 30 November (until Sunday 5 January 2025), the ever-popular York Minster Christmas Tree Festival returns with 70 trees, individually decorated by local businesses, schools and charities, on display in the cathedral’s Chapter House, Nave and Lady Chapel.

York Minster will host a range of exciting concerts, from family-favourite The Nutcracker and the return of the well-known choral groups The Chapter House Choir and Gabrieli Roar, to a new performance by The Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band. The cathedral’s much-loved Christmas Carol Concerts return on 11 and 12 December, with readings by actor Sue Devaney (Coronation Street), and music by the Choir of York Minster and the Yorkshire Volunteer Band.

The Very Reverend Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “As we move towards the great seasons of Advent and Christmas, we are conscious not only of the nights drawing in, but of the considerable darkness afflicting much of the world, including the region that Christians often call the Holy Land.

“The season of Advent helps us prepare for the coming into the world of a light which is inextinguishable, and on each Sunday of that season, another candle will be lit on our great Advent Wreath to symbolise that light which the world has not, and cannot overcome.

“I hope you will visit the Minster during this wonderful, powerful season and let that light transform your life this Christmas.”

York Minster’s Advent and Christmas programme is set out below. For booking information visit www.yorkminster.org or call the Bookings Team on 01904 557200.

York Minster’s Advent and Christmas Programme 2024:

Johann Sebastian Bach’s Cantata 140, Sleepers, wake
Sunday 24 November, 4pm
On the Sunday before Advent, the Choir of York Minster gives its traditional annual Evensong performance of Bach’s popular Cantata 140, ‘Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme’ (Sleepers, wake), with orchestral accompaniment.
Free, no tickets required.

The York Minster Christmas Tree Festival
Saturday 30 November – Sunday 5 January 2025, during general admission times
York Minster Christmas Tree Festival returns for the fourth year with 70 trees on display in the cathedral’s stunning Nave, Chapter House and Lady Chapel.
Included with general admission.

Minster Mash-Up: Lights switch-on
Saturday 30 November, 10am
Join York Minster’s worship for young people and families – Minster Mash-Up – and get ready for Advent. Families are invited to join us at the lights switch-on for the York Minster Christmas Tree Festival as we prepare to mark the beginning of Advent and await the arrival of baby Jesus.
Free, no tickets required.

Advent Procession
Sunday 1 December, 5.30pm
On Advent Sunday, York Minster gradually emerges from darkness into full candlelight in the stunning and atmospheric Advent Procession. The Choir of York Minster will process through the cathedral to music, readings and prayers.
Free, pre-booked tickets required.

A Grand Georgian Christmas with Gabrieli Roar
Friday 6 December, 7.15pm
Following the successful Praetorius tour in 2022, Gabrieli Roar presents A Grand Georgian Christmas. Led by Gabrieli Artistic Director Paul McCreesh, over 4,000 late-primary and secondary students will join Gabrieli’s world-class musicians across eleven performances in regional cathedrals around the UK, from Cumbria to Cornwall.
Tickets available in the autumn. 

The Nutcracker at York Minster
Saturday 7 December, 7pm
A magical performance of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker from York Minster for children and adults alike. Narration by local children’s actor Gemma Sharp (Artistic Director of local theatre company Hoglets), and music by Benjamin Morris, York Minster’s Assistant Director of Music, who will bring Tchaikovsky’s music to life on the cathedral’s spectacular Grand Organ.
Tickets priced between £7 and £30 available via yorkminster.org

Christmas Carol Concerts
Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 December, 7pm
The Choir of York Minster will perform much-loved Christmas music, with seasonal readings from special guest Sue Devaney and music by the Yorkshire Volunteer Band.

Brighouse and Rastrick Band Concert
Saturday 14 December, 7.30pm
The world-famous Brighouse and Rastrick Band arrive at York Minster for a fabulous festive concert of Christmas pieces, medleys and carols to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Tickets available in the autumn. 

Sankta Lucia: Festival of Light
Monday 16 December, 7pm
An atmospheric, candlelit procession and carol service based on the traditional Swedish Lucia celebration. The service is run in partnership with the York Anglo-Scandinavian Society.
Free, pre-booked tickets required.

Chapter House Choir ‘Carols by Candlelight’
Friday 20 December, 7.30pm
The choir continues to build on its reputation as one of the North of England’s finest chamber choirs, under the leadership of Musical Director Benjamin Morris. The Chapter House Choir will be joined by the Chapter House Youth Choir.
Tickets available in the autumn. 

Nine Lessons and Carols
Sunday 22 & Tuesday 24 December, 4pm
Two services consisting of nine special readings, carols sung by the Choir of York Minster and hymns for everyone to join in. A traditional Christmas celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Free, pre-booked tickets required.

Crib Service
Tuesday 24 December, 11.30am
The Christmas story in a fun and accessible service for families with carols and musical accompaniment. Children are encouraged to dress up as characters from the Nativity and the highpoint of the service will be the blessing of the crib, with the opportunity for children to come and see it before they leave the cathedral.
Free, no tickets required.

Midnight Mass
Tuesday 24 December, 11.30pm
Experience the First Eucharist of Christmas with choral music sung by the St William’s Singers.
Free, no tickets required.

Christmas Day Services
Wednesday 25 December
York Minster celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world.

8am: Holy Communion from the Book of Common Prayer
10am: Choral Matins sung by the Choir of York Minster
11am: Sung Eucharist sung by the Choir of York Minster, with sermon by The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York.
4pm: Choral Evensong sung by the Choir of York Minster.

The cathedral will be open free of charge from 12.45pm – 3pm.

New Year’s Eve bells
Tuesday 31 December
York Minster’s Bellringers will ring in the new year as the clock strikes midnight.

Sung Eucharist for the Feast of the Epiphany
Sunday 5 January 2025, 11am

A special service to mark the Feast of the Epiphany with music sung by St Paul’s College Choir, University of Sydney.

York Minster announces chorister auditions for 2025

York Minster is offering school pupils currently in Year 3 the chance to audition for its world-famous choir. Children are not expected to have formal singing experience, but a love of singing is a necessity. If their audition is successful, children will receive a subsidised place at St Peter’s School for 2025, with opportunities to apply for up to 100% funding.

Choral music is one of the glories of York Minster. The choir is widely regarded as one of the finest cathedral choirs in the country and can trace its heritage back to AD627. In recent years, choristers have performed for His Majesty King Charles III, as well as featuring on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM. Alongside high profile performances, choristers also have the chance to tour internationally, make new friends, and sing alongside renowned musicians in the awe-inspiring setting of York Minster.

York Minster’s choristers receive a world-class musical education under the tutelage of Robert Sharpe, the cathedral’s Director of Music. In their first year, the children are encouraged to find their voice: they attend rehearsals, take musical theory and sight singing lessons, and develop their musicianship through fun games. From their second year, they begin singing at services, concerts and special occasions, supported by an expert team of musicians, chaperones and clergy at York Minster. Choristers also receive an outstanding education at St Peter’s School, one of the oldest schools in the world, winner of the Times Education Supplement’s Independent School of the Year 2021, and the choir school for York Minster since September 2020.

The Chapter of York, York Minster’s governing body, provides a substantial scholarship for each chorister towards school fees, regardless of financial status. Families can also apply for additional means-tested bursaries which can potentially increase the level of funding to 100% through St Peter’s School bursary programme.

Robert Sharpe explains that the recruitment process aims to identify children’s musical potential. He said:

“Becoming a chorister at York Minster is an excellent way to harness a child’s musical talent, as well as helping children to develop lifelong skills of self-discipline, team-work, organisation, concentration, poise, and attention to detail.

“I know that there will be many parents in and around York with a son or daughter who just loves singing and who may be searching for ways to nurture their child’s ability. At the auditions, I will be looking for children who are able to hold a tune, pitch notes, and express an interest in developing their musical talents, but I am not expecting them to arrive as fully-formed musicians!

“This is a unique opportunity for a child to have a superb education and to play a part in the life of one of the most important and beautiful cathedrals in the world.”

Commenting on the auditions, Jeremy Walker, Head Master of St Peter’s School, York, said:

“The wonderful experience of being a chorister at York Minster, combined with an outstanding education at St Peter’s, offers life-changing opportunities for girls and boys with musical talents and interests.

“I am aware of the financial pressures that families are facing in the current climate. For some, this may make a choristership at St Peter’s seem out of reach, but I would encourage you to have a conversation with our team about applying for means-tested bursaries. You may be surprised by how many families qualify for additional fee assistance.

“I have first-hand appreciation of the incredible experience this provides, as a former chorister parent myself and Head Master of two cathedral choir schools, and encourage you and your families to find out more and consider an application.”

About the 2025 Chorister Auditions

York Minster’s Chorister Auditions will be held in January 2025 at St Peter’s School, Clifton, York YO30 6AB. The deadline for applications is 31 December 2024. For more details, please contact admissions@stpetersyork.org.uk.

Back to school with York Minster’s Learning Team

York Minster’s Learning Team are gearing up to welcome young people to the cathedral for the new school year with brand-new, vibrant activities. The programme includes significant financial support for schools, with bursaries towards travel costs, free self-led visits for schools from a YO postcode, and funded places in the National Schools Singing Programme.

Schools can engage in workshops and guided tours, or self-guided visits around the cathedral, created to meet curriculum needs, whilst also being fun and engaging. York Minster’s experienced team of heritage and religious education specialists can take pupils on a medieval pilgrimage, help them become artists and poets, or even put a Victorian arsonist on trial.

Lisa Power, Head of Events and Participation at York Minster, said: “I am very aware that families and schools are currently under financial pressure. York Minster is such a remarkable place where children can create memories that last a lifetime. We have worked hard to create accessible opportunities to enable as many children as possible to experience its wonders.

“A self-guided visit to the cathedral is free for schools from a YO postcode. York residents can visit the Minster for free and there is no charge for children under 17 to visit with an accompanying adult from outside of York. We have an array of trails and activities that help children and young people explore this incredible site throughout the year.

“From speaking with schools, I know that financial challenges can be a barrier when organising trips, especially around transport. That is why we have teamed up with Hyundai’s Great British School Trip. Upon booking, schools are able to apply for a bursary to support travel costs.”

At the beginning of 2024, York Minster piloted a new music outreach programme with three York Primary Schools, in tandem with the National Schools Singing Programme. The syllabus and structure of the programme enables diverse communities to engage with choral and church music of the highest standard. Participating schools have performed inside the cathedral and have enriched their own musical traditions through this scheme.

York Minster can offer a free term to two more York based schools due to generous funding from the York Music Hub; very favourable rates are available for the rest of the school year.

On Saturday 7 September the cathedral will host the first of its ‘Minster Mashups’, a fun, relaxed service for families. The first service will mark the start of the school year and children are encouraged to bring their school bags to be blessed. Other Minster Mashups will be themed around Harvest Festival and the Christmas Tree Festival light switch-on.

Commenting on the broad range of activities at the Minster, Lisa Power said: “Seeing children and young people experience and participate in worship at York Minster is wonderful part of my job. I hope families feel welcome to attend the Minster Mashup this autumn and enjoy an inclusive, ebullient type of worship.

“A personal highlight for me this year has been hearing local primary school children sing at our lunchtime eucharists through the National Schools Singing Programme. The children participating in the scheme have been fantastic and it’s a way for local pupils and their communities to experience the spiritual and cultural richness of the cathedral. We are very grateful to have received funding from the York Music Hub to cover a free term of musical tuition and have space for two more schools from York to join the scheme”.

York Minster also has a range of trails and activities that help children and young people explore this incredible site throughout the year, all included in the cost of a general admission ticket.

Prices for school workshops with a guided tour:

£6 per pupil + £30 facilitation fee. One accompanying adult with up to ten children goes free. £13 for each additional adult (excluding staff required for KS1/SEN). *

*Prices to go up by 50p in January.

Schools can get further information by emailing bookings@yorkminster.org or speak with a member of York Minster’s Bookings Team 01904 557200. Detailed information about our new learning offer is on our website at  www.yorkminster.org/visit/schools.

For more information about the National Schools Singing Programme go to www.nssp.org.uk

York Minster Appoints Leeds-based Company for Pioneering Solar Panel Installation

York Minster, one of the most iconic and historically significant cathedrals in the world, is taking a pioneering step towards sustainability with the imminent installation of 184 state-of-the-art solar panels. This innovative project not only aims to reduce the carbon footprint of this historic landmark, but also features enhanced fire safety measures, ensuring the preservation of its architectural heritage for future generations.

The installation contract has been awarded to Associated Clean Technologies Ltd, an award-winning solar panel installation team based in Leeds, ensuring that the project will meet the highest standards of quality and safety. The installation of the solar panels on the South Quire roof area marks a significant milestone in York Minster’s ongoing efforts to integrate modern technology within its centuries-old structure.

York Minster’s new solar installation is designed with the latest SolarEdge inverter technology, which is renowned for its advanced safety features. The decision to incorporate SolarEdge was driven by the dual objectives of maximising energy generation yield and prioritising the safety of the cathedral’s structure and its visitors.

The Very Revd. Dominic Barrington, Dean of York: “We are thrilled to integrate solar into our strategy to decarbonise our operation. This installation is not just about harnessing renewable energy; it is about ensuring the preservation of York Minster for generations to come as we collectively seek to reduce our impact on the planet in an increasingly worrying climate emergency.”

Alex McCallion, Director of Works and Precinct: “The safety features provided by SolarEdge technology were a decisive factor in our choice of design. The greatest threat to the fabric of York Minster is now extreme weather events. With this system, we can safeguard our heritage while leading by example as we move towards a more sustainable future.”

Nicola Newby, Operations Director of Associated Clean Technologies Ltd: “We are honoured to have been selected to carry out this significant installation at York Minster. Our team has worked diligently to ensure that the project not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”

York Minster’s adoption of solar panels is a testament to its dedication to innovation and sustainability, setting a benchmark for other historical sites worldwide. The project underscores the potential for modern technology to complement and protect our shared cultural heritage.

Yorkshire Day to be celebrated in the Heart of Yorkshire

Faith leaders, civic representatives, and people who proudly call Yorkshire home will gather in York Minster on Thursday 1 August for a special service to mark Yorkshire Day.

The Service of Prayer and Thanksgiving will begin as people gather with music sung by the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir, before a procession of civic leaders arrives from York Mansion House to the cathedral, a place of prayer and pilgrimage in whose west window is traced ‘The Heart of Yorkshire’.

The Yorkshire Society, who are hosting a whole day of celebrations alongside the service, will process and a flag will be presented at the Altar by Cadets.

Reflections will be shared by Professor Avtar Matharu, Chair of York Interfaith Group; Shamim Eimaan, a Ugandan refugee who has lived in York for almost four decades; and Bianca Vartic, a new resident of York.

Commenting on the service, The Reverend Tim Goode, York Minster’s Canon for Congregational Discipleship and Nurture, said:  “We are thrilled to be hosting this special Yorkshire Day service at the cathedral for the first time since 2000. As a fairly new resident of York myself, I’ve been privileged to experience warmth and welcome from the Yorkshire people and have enjoyed exploring the rich and varied history and culture that the region offers.

“The service will give us all a chance to give thanks for these great counties, but also to reflect on how we wish to see the region develop into the future. I hope many people will be able to join us in our worship.”

The Service of Prayer and Thanksgiving will take place in the cathedral’s nave on Thursday 1 August starting at 11am and will last around an hour.