Leeds Minster Gathering

Overview

Sunday 18 October, 2-7pm

The Music Department at Leeds Minster invites you to explore on Sunday 18 October. An opportunity to sing Evensong with the Choir of Leeds Minster, to hear and play the famous organ, and to hear members of the Music Department in conversation discussing music at Leeds and its vibrant future, all in the fascinating surroundings of this large and vibrant city centre church.

The Choir of Leeds Minster, led by Director of Music, Alexander Woodrow and Assistant Organist Shaun Turnbull, consists of an adult liturgical choir of volunteers and scholars, and now also a Children’s Choir established in 2025, continuing a tradition that follows on from former Organists including Dr S S Wesley and Edward Bairstow.  The fine organ is largely a Harrison & Harrison instrument with some existing Schulze stops.

The afternoon will begin at 2pm, and include a short organ recital and demonstration by Alex and Shaun with a brief talk about the heritage of music at the Minster. There will then be the opportunity to play the organ and listen to a further conversation between our Local Ambassador, Dr Ed Jones and Alex Woodrow about opportunities that arise from managing a music department in the heart of the city. Enjoy a tour of the beautiful building before a rehearsal for the Come & Sing Evensong, which will take place at 5.30pm. Refreshments will be available during the afternoon and the event is due to finish between 6.30 and 7pm.