About Us
The bells atop Rush Rhees Library, collectively called a carillon, are played daily by students and faculty. Although a few bells automatically chime every 15 minutes throughout the day, all other bell music is played live and entirely mechanically by real people in the library dome. As players of a public instrument, we’re committed to playing a wide variety of music that represents and engages all community members. Find us on Facebook and Instagram!
Summer Carillon Concert Series season is here! View the summer program and plan a visit to campus to hear the bells live! Concerts are free and open to the public. Listen from the Eastman Quad, the north side of Meliora Hall, your car, or elsewhere on campus. Picnicking is welcome. Free parking in the library lot after 4 pm.
Playing Schedule
The carillon is played at 1:45–2 p.m. and 4:40–4:50 p.m. every day when classes are in session during the fall and spring semesters, during which time anyone may register for free tower tours. We also accept song requests!
Longer themed concerts are presented for special occasions, usually on weekdays at 5 p.m. Each July, the summer concert series features guests from around the country and the world for concerts enjoyed by the whole community.
Open rehearsal takes place 5–9 p.m. on weekdays and noon–9 p.m. on weekends. Lessons and workshops occasionally take place before 5 p.m. on weekdays.
Tours and Demonstrations
Paid carillon demonstrations and tower tours are available for on- or off-campus groups. Fill out this form to express interest.
Meet the Players
Members of the fall 2024 carillon studio.
