National Carillon

Experience Harmony at the National Carillon

The National Carillon, located on Aspen Island in Canberra, Australia, is a magnificent musical instrument and a beloved cultural landmark. Completed in 1970, the carillon features 55 bronze bells and stands at an impressive 50 meters tall. It was gifted to the people of Australia by the British Government to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the National Capital. The carillon is not only a symbol of Canberra’s cultural heritage but also serves as a venue for public performances and events, enchanting visitors with its melodious chimes. Visitors can enjoy the delightful sound of the bells during regular recitals, which occur several times a week. The surrounding area is a beautiful park, providing a perfect setting for picnics, leisurely strolls, and gatherings.

The National Carillon also offers guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about its history, construction, and the art of bell ringing. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a music lover, or simply looking to enjoy a picturesque outing, the National Carillon is a must-visit destination that embodies the spirit of community and celebration in Australia.

History

The National Carillon tower was the prize-winning design of Western Australian architects Cameron, Chisholm & Nicol. The design of the tower comprises three angular columns clad in quartz and opal chip. Each shaft is a triangle in plan, and each is aligned with one of the three sides of a central equilateral triangle. Each of the shafts serves a different function: the highest contains a passenger lift, the next a steel staircase, and the lowest is a service shaft. The maximum height of the tower is 50 metres from ground level. The first floor is approximately halfway up the tower and contains the chamber for the clavier that operates the bells, space for other musicians to play in concert with the carillon, and facilities for the carillonist. Above this is the bell chamber itself, and lastly, at a height of 36 metres above ground level, is a small viewing called ‘Chimes’.

The Carillon was constructed with a concrete frame and site-fabricated, by positioning and jointing the cladding, erecting self-climbing formwork on the inside and infilling stage by stage from the bottom with reinforcement and concrete. An aperture had to be left in the centre of the floor to allow the biggest bells to be hoisted to the bell chamber, since they were too large to pass up any of the three shafts.

Queen Elizabeth II officially opened the National Carillon on 26 April 1970. John Douglas Gordon, after whom the Queen Elizabeth II Island footbridge is now named, played the inaugural recital.