The landmark BYU Carillon Tower. This is the only carillon in Utah. There are 108 steps to get up to the top of the tower where the carillon and bells are located.
View from the top of the tower showing the new Heritage Halls dormatories.
The leaves are just starting to show their autumn color.
Kathryn Ann and John -- September 27, 2017.
Closeup of the bells in the tower.
View of the bells from the top of the tower.
The instrument spans four octaves. The lower octave and a half are duplicated by the pedals.
The keys are connected to the bells with wires.
The keys are played by hitting the keys with a closed fist and stepping firmly on the pedals. It is a very physical endeavor. The notes can be played very rapidly while other notes are held. It is amazing.
Neil Thornock is a music professor at BYU. He earned his way through BYU playing the carillon bells. He was paid for his practice time as well as his composing time. He played a couple of pieces he had composed as well as others. It was amazing! The bells heard on campus for the hour and half-hour are pre-recorded. A few of us were allowed to play. By request, I played "Happy Birthday." I'm sure the people on campus were impressed. It was a fascinating experience.
