12/10/2026
A remarkable 46-year chapter comes full circle. 🎹
On 18 October 1980, Professor Ian Tracey began a new role as organist at Liverpool Cathedral, becoming Britain’s youngest cathedral organist at the time.
Almost 46 years to the day later, Ian will perform his final recital as cathedral organist at a special centenary concert celebrating 100 years of the cathedral’s Grand Organ.
Reflecting on his retirement, Ian, now 71, said: “I could not go on forever. It is time for someone else to have the reins. I took over from Noel on 18th October 1980 after the Anniversary recital, so it has a nice cyclic feel to it.”
But Ian doesn’t plan on hanging up his organ shoes forever and will continue to be involved, remaining connected to the instrument he describes as his “beloved friend”.
We were immensely proud to award Ian an honorary Doctor of Music degree in 2006, and we’re delighted that he remains part of our wonderful alumni community.
Join us in congratulating Ian in the comments on an extraordinary career and an incredible legacy. 👏 We look forward to seeing the next chapter unfold.