A Chorus of Bells: Carillon Concert

We started attending these unique concerts a few years ago, (photos here (http://www.torontofriendsofclassicalmusic.com/photos/all_photos/?photoAlbumId=984093)), at The Metropolitan United Church. Well, we'll be there once again!

Wesley Arai from California.

http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/e/e/c/event_127452012.jpeg

Recitals will take place rain or shine.

A guided tour of the carillon will be held after each performance.

IMPORTANT: The carillon tour involves hiking up and down about a hundred steps in the summer heat, it is for the reasonably fit only. Please wear proper footwear. TFCM will not be held liable for any injuries or illness that may result from the climb.

We shall be collecting $5.00 from our members as a donation to the church. This will be given to the Carillon Fund of Metropolitan United Church for the Church Carillon Fund.

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If by now, you're wondering what a CARILLON is, read on.......

Metropolitan's carillon, whose bells are located high in the tower facing Queen Street, is still played before each Sunday service and before our many special events, as it has been since April 2, 1922. On that date, Metropolitan's 50th anniversary was celebrated with the dedication of the first 23 bells in Metropolitan's carillon, marking the first installation of a tuned carillon anywhere in North America.

The original bells were donated by Chester Massey (http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com/index.cfm?PgNm=TCE&Params=U1ARTU0002242) in memory of his wife Margaret. On each of these 23 bells is inscribed, "May the spirit of the Lord reach the heart of every one where the sound of these bells is heard." Twelve smaller bells were added in 1960 and another 19 bells were added in 1971, bringing the total to the current 54 bells.

The carillon is played from a pedal and key console housed in the tower in an insulated cabin just below the bells. The original key and pedal console from 1922 is preserved and is on display in the tower vestibule.