Organ Performances

Journey with Cathedral organists Thomas M. Sheehan and George Fergus as they wow us throughout a playlist of performances on the Cathedral’s 10,647-pipe great organ. Watch full recitals, demos, and favorites by a number of composers.

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A Grand Instrument

The great organ of Washington National Cathedral was built by the Ernest M. Skinner & Son Organ Company and installed in 1938. The great organ consists of 10,647 pipes.

Organ Recitals

Join us for recitals on the Cathedral’s great organ featuring organists from around the world. Recitals take place on Sunday afternoons. Please refer to the Cathedral Calendar for specific times. There is a suggested donation of $10 per person. No reservations are required, with the exception of groups.

2019-2020 Organ Recitals
  • Due to the pandemic, regular organ recitals are not taking place. Please check our calendar for a list of our most up-to-date events.

The great organ has been revised and enlarged over the years to accommodate the changing needs of the Cathedral: view the great organ’s specifications (PDF).

Organ Recital Series Application Update

During this time of temporary closure we are not accepting applications for upcoming organ recitals.  We will continue to provide up-to-date information as it is available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Weekly Organ Demonstrations

Mondays & Wednesdays
12:30–1:00 pm
  • Please note that the Cathedral is temporarily closed to visitors. Organ Demonstrations will not occur during this time.
  • Featuring an overview by a Cathedral organist about 10,650-pipe organ followed by a mini-recital
  • Reservations required for bus groups (no reservations required for individuals or families)
  • Organ demonstrations do not take place on holidays; check the calendar to confirm if an organ demonstration is scheduled on the date of your visit.