On Sunday 2 October, York Minster’s sung Sunday services will give thanks for the life of Dr Francis Jackson, on what would have been his 105^th birthday.

Dr Francis Jackson CBE, Organist Emeritus, was an internationally renowned organ recitalist, composer and former Master of the Music at York Minster.

He first became involved in York Minster’s music as a schoolboy chorister in 1929. After active service as a soldier in the Second World War, he returned to York Minster in 1946 to become Master of the Music, succeeding his teacher and mentor, Sir Edward Bairstow. He served for a remarkable 36 years alongside his illustrious career as an internationally renowned organ recitalist and composer.

Join York Minster for three special services:

Choral Matins – 10am

The Choir of York Minster will perform well-known pieces written by Dr Francis Jackson in the Quire, alongside the anthem Jesus, the very thought of thee which was written by his teacher, predecessor and mentor, Sir Edward Bairstow.

Choral Eucharist – 11am  

The Choir of York Minster will perform well-known pieces written by Dr Francis Jackson in the Nave, including the first liturgical performance in many years of his Communion Service in G, alongside Mozart’s evergreen Ave verum corpus.

This service will also be livestreamed on our YouTube channel.

Choral Evensong – 4pm  

The Choir of York Minster and will perform well-known pieces written by Dr Francis Jackson in the Nave, as well as Blessed City, heavenly Salem, written by his teacher, predecessor and mentor, Sir Edward Bairstow.

Special prayers and readings will also be given.

This service will also be livestreamed on our YouTube channel.

All three services will be sung by the Choir of York Minster, directed by Robert Sharpe, the organ will be played by Benjamin Morris and Asher Oliver. Dr Francis Jackson’s iconic setting of the service in G major will be used at all three services.

All are welcome, no booking required.