The Sanctus Project

Take a break in the middle of your week and enjoy an inspiring hour of live music in the magnificent surroundings of Bristol Cathedral’s 19th-century Nave. Our popular Tuesday Lunchtime Recital series showcases a diverse programme of performances from world-class musicians, rising stars, and acclaimed ensembles, offering something to delight every musical taste.

This year’s series has a special significance as we celebrate the return of Bristol Cathedral’s historic organ following 18 months of meticulous restoration. Throughout 2026, our Grand Organ Festival is marking this remarkable achievement with a year-long programme of music, craftsmanship, and discovery. Many of this year’s lunchtime recitals form part of the festival, giving audiences the opportunity to experience the newly restored instrument in all its splendour.

For organ recitals, a live video feed from the console will be projected onto a screen, allowing audiences a unique view of the performer’s artistry and technique as they bring the Cathedral organ to life.

Whether you are a regular concertgoer, a curious visitor, or simply looking for a peaceful and uplifting lunchtime experience, we invite you to join us on this musical journey.

This Week’s Recital

The Sanctus Project

Sanctus was the brainchild of saxophonist and session musician, Ian Close. Ian transcribed the vocal lines from early sacred music of the 12th and 13th centuries and then Dominic Beeton accompanied these sublime instrumental lines with harmonium, shruti box, and synthesisers. The result is a profoundly spiritual experience which is ideally suited for cathedrals, churches, abbeys and sacred spaces.