The Carillon Where twelve or fewer bells are mounted to play tunes they are called a chime. Thirteen or more bells are called a carillon. They are sounded by mechanical operation from a clavier on which levers are arranged in sequence like a piano keyboard. The carilloneur strikes the levers with fists and/or feet and mechanical attachments release the clappers against the bells.
The carillon in Bishop Cross Tower, one of the finest in the world and one of very few in the Pacific Northwest, consists of 49 cast bells. They were cast and installed by John Taylor and Sons of Loughborough, Leicestershire, England. Mr. Paul Taylor, president of the firm at the time the carillon was installed, died in 1981 and was the seventh and last generation of the Taylor family to head the firm. Devotees of the mystery novel will perhaps know of Dorothy Sayer’s The Nine Taylors, which was inspired by this famous old firm of bell founders. Concerts are played on the carillon following Sunday services, at times of religious and civic festivals, and at other times as announced. Access to the tower is unfortunately limited to one person at a time due to narrow passages and therefore tours of the Cathedral cannot include visual inspection of the carillon. It is heard best from outside the Cathedral.
Our carilloneur, Andrea McCrady, M.D., is a world-class artist. In addition, Dr. McCrady brings guest carilloneurs from all parts of the globe to play during our summer carillon recital series. Our assistant carilloneur, Byrl Cinnamon, plays weekly recitals on Sundays.
It is rare indeed for a city the size of Spokane to have a carillon at all, much less one as fine as this. The carillon in the tower of Washington National Cathedral, also cast and installed by Taylor and Sons, has only four more bells, 53 instead of 49. Our community is truly blessed to have such a glorious voice. |
