About Us
The bells atop Rush Rhees Library, collectively called a carillon, are played daily by students and faculty, making ours the most actively played carillon in New York State. 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.
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Playing Schedule and Tours
Carillon recitals are played Monday–Thursday at 1:45–2 p.m. and 4:40–4:50 p.m., when classes are in session during the fall and spring semesters. Free interior tower tours coincide with the vast majority of these recitals, departing promptly at 1:30 p.m. and 4:25 p.m. from the Q&i desk of Rush Rhees Library.
All are welcome to join these tours on a first come, first served basis. To participate, simply arrive early and announce yourself to the Q&i desk staff so they can connect you with the host carillonists. You may also register for a tour to guarantee your place (if you arrive on time) and avoid dates that are already full or when no tours offered. See the registration page for full information.
We also accept suggestions of songs to play on the bells.
Register for a tower tour Suggest a song
Concerts and Rehearsal
Longer themed concerts are presented for special occasions, usually on weekdays at 5 p.m. The summer concert series features guests from around the country and the world for concerts enjoyed by the whole community (typically on certain Mondays in July and August at 6:30 p.m.).
Open rehearsal takes place 4:50–9 p.m. on weekdays and noon–9 p.m. on weekends. Lessons and workshops occasionally take place before 5 p.m. on weekdays.
Meet the Players
