Hear two worlds collide as Plague of Angels, an electro-symphonic-metal powerhouse known for epic arrangements, infectious choruses, and dramatic compositions, presents an evening of heavy metal music showcasing York Minster’s magnificent Grand Organ.

Organ music has played a central role in worship at York Minster for nearly 1,000 years and may seem completely at odds with some genres of contemporary music. However, Plague of Angels, led by classically trained vocalist Anabelle Iratni, have curated their concert to complement the instrument; the slower nature of metal music leaves space for the sustain of the organ, allowing its rich and full tones to dominate the cathedral’s cavernous Nave.

The concert will be split into three sections:

Black Sabbath and Deep Purple pipe organ recital

The evening will begin with an organ recital by David Pipe, former Assistant Director of Music at York Minster, performing classics from Black Sabbath and Deep Purple, the pioneers of heavy metal music.

Aaron Stainthorpe

Accompanied by the organ, Aaron Stainthorpe, of My Dying Bride and High Parasite, will perform an atmospheric set drawing on themes from the metal genre.

Plague of Angels

The evening will end with a one-hour set by Plague of Angels, featuring What Lies Beneath, Beyond Salvation (recently featured on BBC’s The One Show) and the epic textures of Lazarene, Ascension, Black Requiem, Stigmata and Pangea enhanced by the power and grandeur of the organ.

Hear the organ like never before as the worlds of cathedral music and heavy metal are brought together inside York Minster. Suitable for ages 8 to 108!

Tickets and prices

The concert will take place on Friday 25 April, between 7.30pm and 10.30pm. Doors will open at 6.45pm.

Tickets cost £20 for the Front Nave and £15 for the Rear Nave. Tickets for the Nave Side Aisles cost £12, with a concessionary price of £6 for those aged 27 and under.

Tickets will be available via this page or by calling 01904 557200 from 10am on Monday 3 February.