About Organists’ Review
A magazine with a rich heritage, celebrating organ music and culture.
Organists’ Review is the official magazine of the Incorporated Association of Organists (IAO), a publication that has connected lovers of organ music for more than a century.
Whether you play, listen, or simply admire the organ as an instrument, Organists’ Review celebrates the artistry, craftsmanship, and people that bring its music to life.
Our story: a timeline of Organists’ Review & the IAO
Our story begins in the late nineteenth century, when the first local organists’ associations were founded across the UK. From those early gatherings grew a national movement; one dedicated to education, connection, and a shared love of organ music.
Below is a journey through the milestones that shaped both Organists’ Review and the IAO into what they are today.
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1890
The First Local Associations
The story begins in Wakefield, where a group of passionate organists met for a Christmas gathering, and, in doing so, founded the Wakefield and District Organists’ Association.
This spark inspired the creation of many similar associations across the UK in the years that followed.
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1913
The Birth of a Federation
Representatives from local associations met in Stockport to discuss forming a national body.
That November, the National Union of Organists’ Associations was officially founded: the precursor to today’s IAO.
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1915
The First Issue of the Magazine
Under the editorship of John Brook, the first issue of The Quarterly Record was published.
It provided members with news, articles, and commentary on organ music, laying the foundation for what would later become Organists’ Review.
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1920
The First Congress
The first Organists’ Congress was held in Stockport, uniting musicians and enthusiasts from across the country for concerts, talks, and shared learning.
It marked the beginning of the IAO’s strong tradition of community and collaboration.
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1931
Becoming the Incorporated Association of Organists (IAO)
Times changed, and so did the Union.
In 1931, the National Union evolved into the Incorporated Association of Organists, solidifying its educational mission and national structure.
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1970s–2000s
Growth and Global Reach
Over the decades, the IAO grew to include over 70 affiliated associations across the UK and thousands of members worldwide.
Organists’ Review expanded beyond a membership publication, welcoming readers from around the world who share a love of the organ and its music.
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2010s
Into the Digital Age
With the rise of digital publishing, Organists’ Review became accessible to an international audience through Pocketmags and other online platforms.
This opened the door for readers everywhere to enjoy the same inspiring content, regardless of location.
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Today
A Living Tradition
Today, Organists’ Review continues to be published quarterly by the IAO, reaching musicians, listeners, and enthusiasts across the globe.
It remains a trusted voice in the world of organ music, honouring its heritage while celebrating the people and ideas shaping its future.
Our connection with the IAO
The Incorporated Association of Organists (IAO) is at the heart of Organists’ Review.
Founded to support organists and educate the public about organ music, the IAO now has almost 4,000 members worldwide and continues to champion excellence, learning, and appreciation for the instrument.
Continuing the legacy
From our first issue in 1915 to today’s international readership, Organists’ Review has always been about connection — between musicians and listeners, between tradition and innovation, and between generations of those who love the organ.
Join thousands of readers who share your love of the organ. Subscribe today and let every issue of Organists’ Review bring the music closer to you.