Organist Anna Lapwood, known for her massive social media following and innovative approach to classical music, will perform a sold-out concert at the Francis Winspear Centre for Music in Edmonton on April 25, 2026. The performance will feature the Davis Concert Organ, one of the largest instruments of its kind in Canada.
Social Media Sensation
Lapwood has amassed 1.5 million followers on Instagram and nearly 250,000 subscribers on YouTube, where her videos of classical works and film scores from movies like Interstellar and Pirates of the Caribbean have gone viral. A performance with electronic group Bonobo garnered millions of views, capturing the moment the organ kicks in and Lapwood's joyful expression.
“I think social media is a really useful tool to break down barriers or perceived barriers around any genre, that’s what I always thought of it doing,” Lapwood said. “When I used to post online, when I was a harpist, I was trying to explain what it’s like being a harpist; it’s a great tool for de-mystifying things.”
From Harp to Organ
Lapwood's journey to the organ began unexpectedly. Initially a harpist, she was convinced she would pursue that instrument until her mother mentioned that organ players receive a grand piano in their dorm room. “I thought, ‘Maybe I will take up the organ and maybe I will get a grand piano,’” she recalled. That decision led her to choral music and a prolific career.
At age 21, Lapwood became the Director of Music at Pembroke College, Cambridge, the youngest person to hold that post. She conducted the chapel choir and continues to work with youth choirs. In 2025, she was named the inaugural official organist for the Royal Albert Hall, where she has performed with acts like Florence + the Machine.
Adapting to New Instruments
Lapwood spends hours rehearsing before each performance to familiarize herself with new organs and acoustics. She often rewrites pieces or reconsiders how they are performed. During a recent trip to Australia, she had to rework a melody normally played with her left hand, using pedals and her feet instead.
“Sometimes you have to listen to what the organ is telling you,” she said.
In Edmonton, Lapwood will perform minimalist music arranged for solo organ, along with her popular film scores. Audiences may also see her signature sequined jacket, a style she refined for performing from the organ loft, far from the stage.
