


Joseph Nolan is the best organist in Australia, but he’ll be transporting you to 19th Century France through the music of Alexandre Guilmant and Charles-Marie Widor.
Guilmant’s Organ Sonata No.1 contains everything you’d expect to hear from this thunderous instrument. Suspense, horror, drama and joy will echo between the walls of the Melbourne Town Hall. The venue’s Grand Organ was built in 1929 and has close to 10,000 pipes, drums, and bells – making it the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
The instrument will get more of a workout under the hands (and feet!) of Nolan when he plays Widor’s Symphony for Organ No.5. Nolan has won awards with Gramophone and Apple Classical for his recordings of Widor’s organ works including this composition. It contains a Toccata movement, which is a style of music named after the skilful ‘touch’ of the virtuosic musician who dares to play it. This gives you a window into just how impressive Nolan’s recital will be.
1hr. No Interval.
Concerts, Classical
5th September, 2026
5th September, 2026

Lifts provide access to the Foyer & Stalls via Swanston St. Balcony has steps; not recommended for limited mobility. Wheelchair/scooter bays, aisle seats, and accessible toilets are available. Assistive listening devices and guide/service dogs welcome; devices must be booked 48 hrs in advance.
BY TRAIN: Nearest rail station is Flinder Street Station (approximately 5 minutes’ walk)
BY TRAM: Nearest tram stops are: City Square/Swanston Street—Stop 11 (routes 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6,26, 64, 67 and 72), and Collins Street—Stop 6 (routes 11, 12, 48, 109)
Organ: Joseph Nolan
PROGRAM
Guilmant Organ Sonata No.1
Widor Symphony for Organ No.5
Organ Recital: Joseph Nolan runs for 1hr. No Interval.
Organ Recital: Joseph Nolan is at Melbourne's Melbourne Town Hall, which is located at 90-130 Swanston Street, Melbourne, 3000.
Organ Recital: Joseph Nolan tickets start at $25.
Check the top of this page for current availability on Organ Recital: Joseph Nolan tickets on TodayTix.