Hopeman Carillon
Hopeman Memorial Carillon is a set of 50 touch sensitive bells in chromatic sequence played from a baton and pedal keyboard. The bells hang above the crown of Rush Rhees Library, between the top columns of the bell lantern. The original 1930 gift of a 17 bell Meneely chime was given in memory of Arendt W. Hopeman, the father of the contractor who helped build Rush Rhees Library. In 1973, the Hopeman family gifted the University of Rochester 50 cast tuned Eijsbouts bells as a replacement for the chime. Hopeman Carillon has become one of only 7 carillons installed in New York State.
Students are learning to play this valuable and unique world culture instrument under supervision of the Music Department, River Campus, for credit, and Eastman Community Music School for non-credit. Keyboardists, organists, and mallet players transfer their skills to the instrument quickly, experiencing the fun of public performance as a constant backdrop to play. Duets and trios enable performers to step up quickly to advanced music. Recording equipment is accessible. Hopeman Carillon’s future play depends upon active developing interest amongst enthusiastic community participants of all ages. A practice keyboard on River Campus is available for students to use.
To learn more, click: