GCF2025 Event 7 / ‘With Joy': Emerson plays Panufnik

Witness musical history being made, as internationally acclaimed American organist Katelyn Emerson gives the world premiere of a major new work by celebrated British composer Roxanna Panufnik. Commissioned across three nations and nearly two decades in the making, the complete 'Cum Jubilo' Organ Mass will now be heard for the first time at this landmark performance in Glasgow Cathedral.

The first and only British organ mass of this century, Panufnik’s radiant new work is a powerful celebration, and a prayer for global unity, inspired by the ancient 'cum jubilo' (‘with joy’) plainsong. Brimming with colour and vitality, it embodies a message of hope and of cultures combining to work together—the perfect spirit in which to celebrate Glasgow 850, with our city beginning as a place of refuge and diverse community, and continuing to be so over the years.

Known for her musical storytelling and recent commission for the Coronation of King Charles III, Panufnik has a unique voice, full of light and clarity. This music finds the perfect interpreter in Katelyn Emerson – a prizewinner on three continents and ‘a star of the first rank’ (Orgue Canada) – who brings the mass to life in its first full performance. Join us and be part of this joyful premiere!

You may also like the following events from Glasgow Cathedral Festival:

• This month, 18th September, 07:00 pm, GCF2025 Event 2 / Maiden Mother Mage in Glasgow