Understand
Prof Ian Tracey to retire as Liverpool Cathedral's organist after 46 years
Overview
Prof Ian Tracey is stepping down as Liverpool Anglican Cathedral's full-time organist after 46 years, marking his retirement with a special centenary recital on the UK's largest pipe organ. Appointed in 1980 as the UK's youngest cathedral organist, Tracey has enjoyed an illustrious career that includes serving as Liverpool city organist and holding academic roles. While stepping down from his full-time position, he will continue to play at St George's Hall, work with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, and act as a deputy at the cathedral.
Key points
- Prof Ian Tracey is retiring after 46 years as Liverpool Anglican Cathedral's full-time organist.
- His final performance will coincide with a centenary recital celebrating the 100th anniversary of the cathedral's grand organ on 17 October.
- The grand organ features 222 stops controlling 11,000 pipes and was the world's largest cathedral organ when built in 1926.
- Tracey became the UK's youngest cathedral organist when he was appointed in 1980 at the age of 25.
- He will continue performing at St George's Hall and with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, and will remain available to deputise at the cathedral.