Gloucester Cathedral launches organ stop auction to fund music education

Gloucester Cathedral has initiated a fundraising auction allowing supporters to sponsor individual stops on its newly installed pipe organ. The auction, which began on August 31 and runs through September 21, offers successful bidders the opportunity to have their names engraved on specific organ pipes. Participants will also receive a personalized certificate, an invitation to an exclusive event with the cathedral’s music team, and priority access to upcoming concert tickets.

Proceeds from the initiative will support the cathedral’s Singing and Organ Academies, which provide music training, scholarships, and outreach programs across Gloucestershire. Assistant Director of Music Jonathan Hope stated that the funding aims to broaden access to musical education for individuals of various ages and backgrounds. The new instrument, constructed by Nicholson & Co, features 3,338 pipes and 91 stops, and was officially blessed during a service in July attended by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.