Carillon recitals set for Sundays

University carillonneur Lyle Anderson plans to perform free public recitals weekly on Sundays at 3 p.m., June 23-Aug. 11.

The Carillon, containing 56 bells ranging in size from 15 to 6,823 pounds, is located at the Memorial Carillon Tower on Observatory Drive, just steps away from Bascom Hall.

One of only three carillons in Wisconsin listed on the World Carillon Federation’s Web site (the other two are in Green Bay and Milwaukee), it was originally dedicated with 25 bells in 1936. Subsequent additions and replacements have yielded the current configuration of 56 bells.

Anderson, who assumed his post in 1986, says visitors may climb the tower during the hour-long recitals to watch him play the console of wooden batons and pedals that are connected mechanically to clappers inside the stationary bells.

In addition, Anderson and three guest artists plan to perform a series of free public Thursday evening recitals in July, beginning at 7:30 p.m. For these recitals, the public may climb the tower after the conclusion of the program. Anderson will be joined by Beverly Buchanan, Arlington Heights, Ill. July 11; Tin-Shi Tam, Iowa State University, July 18; and John Widmann, Frederick, Md., July 25.

Recitals feature a wide variety of music. On July 4, Anderson will perform music of American heritage from the 18th through 20th centuries, including folk and popular tunes from the Revolutionary War and a medley of Stephen Foster songs.

For more information, call (608) 219-5291.