Promoting the organ since 1911

our history

Founded in 1911, the Glasgow Society of Organists has as its object the education of its members and the public in the art of music, with special reference to organ and choral music.  

Now over a century old, it has evolved from its beginnings as a society catering exclusively for the interests of organists to one that aspires to a membership that includes organists, church musicians and those who simply enjoy organ music. Indeed, indicative of this more inclusive ethos, in 2004 the Society elected its first ever ‘non-playing’ member as President.

The Society supports and promotes public recitals, lectures, and school’s education days among other activities in pursuit of its objects. It is affiliated to the Incorporated Association of Organists and the Scottish Federation of Organists, both of which respectively offer members the opportunity to participate in national events related to the organ and its repertoire.

In 1928, under the Presidency of J B Crawford, the Society donated a trophy to be awarded annually at the Glasgow Music Festival.  Previous holders include two former GSO Presidents and, in 2017, the trophy winner subsequently became the GSO’s youngest member. In 2016 the Society became a corporate member of the Glasgow Music Festival.