Rochdale Town Hall is set to resonate with the majestic sounds of its historic JJ Binns organ once again, as a celebrated series of concerts is announced for 2026. The Oldham, Rochdale and Tameside Organist Association (ORTOA) will present a line-up of renowned organists performing on the magnificent instrument, which has been meticulously restored following the Town Hall's renovation.
A Masterpiece of British Organ Building
The JJ Binns organ is a feature of national importance and one of Rochdale Town Hall's most iconic historic treasures. Constructed by J. J. Binns of Bramley in Leeds, it is widely considered one of the organ builder's finest achievements. The instrument was a gift from philanthropist Sir Samuel Turner to mark the visit of King George V and Queen Mary.
Notably, it was the very last organ made in the UK before the outbreak of World War One. The conflict effectively halted the production of organs of such exceptional quality, as many of the specialised materials used in its construction became unavailable afterwards. Once compared to Binns's equally impressive 1912 organ in London's Kingsway Hall, the Rochdale instrument now stands in a class of its own, as its London counterpart is no longer extant.
Following the Town Hall's closure for renovation in 2020, the organ was carefully protected and has since been fully restored and fitted with a modern playback system, allowing recorded performances to be reproduced at the touch of a button.
The 2026 Celebrity Concert Series Line-Up
The concert series opens on Saturday, 31 January 2026 at 3pm with a performance by organ duettists Carol and Peter Kwater. This will be followed by a prestigious programme featuring some of the UK's leading organists at historic venues.
The confirmed schedule includes:
- Saturday, 28 February 2026 (3pm): Ronny Krippner of Ripon Cathedral.
- Tuesday, 19 May 2026 (1pm): Alexander Woodrow of Leeds Minster.
- Monday, 22 June 2026 (1pm): Cinema organist Jean Martyn.
- Tuesday, 14 July 2026 (1pm): William Campbell of Bradford Cathedral.
- Tuesday, 15 September 2026 (1pm): Adam Wilson of York Minster.
Booking Your Tickets
Tickets for the concerts start from £8 and booking in advance is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be secured online through Your Trust or by calling 01706 924797. A limited number of tickets may be available for payment on the door by card or cash, subject to availability.
Visitors driving to the event can book parking at the Rochdale Town Hall Car Park, though spaces for pay-on-arrival users are limited and not guaranteed. For further information, contact hello@rochdaletownhall.co.uk. The Town Hall is located at The Esplanade, Rochdale, OL16 1AZ.
This concert series promises to be a highlight of the region's cultural calendar, offering a rare opportunity to experience one of Britain's great musical instruments in its spectacular historic setting.
