The organ is one of the most remarkable and complex musical instruments in the world. Able to produce both the loudest and quietest sounds of any instrument, the organ has inspired musicians and organs alike for centuries.

South Yorkshire, and Sheffield in particular, is home to many fine organs, ranging from smaller but perfectly formed instruments in local churches through to one of the largest concert-hall organs in the UK. The inaugural South Yorkshire Organ Festival opens up these organs to the public across Sheffield and beyond.

Through this festival, we will shine a light on these instruments which are rarely given the spotlight and inspire the next generation of organists and organ enthusiasts.

From Thursday 30 May through to Sunday 2 June, experience a range of events including:

• The chance to play a cathedral organ

• A guide to the cinema organ, with live demonstrations

• Workshops and masterclasses for both organists and pianists wishing to try the organ

• A performance of music from the film Interstellar given by the organist on the original soundtrack, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the film’s release.

There is something for everyone this half term! Many of the events are family orientated and are free to attend, involving access to these instruments previously unprecedented to the general public.

Festival venues:

• Sheffield Cathedral

• Astoria Centre, Barugh Green, Barnsley

• St Mark’s, Broomhill, Sheffield

• Upper Chapel, Sheffield

• St Matthew’s, Carver Street, Sheffield

Download your complete guide to the festival below.