Final Carillon Concert this Sunday as Improvements begin for its 50th Anniversary

THIS SUNDAY marks both a congratulatory concert and the last time for this year the bells of the National Carillon will chime.

 A congratulatory concert, celebrating Peter Bray’s success in the Queen Fabiola Carillon Competition and his graduation to the position of Senior Carillonist will be held this Sunday 1 September from 12.30 pm to 1.15 pm

 Carillonist Peter Bray recently returned after his success in the Queen Fabiola Carillon Competition in Mechelen, Belgium.  Five finalists were chosen from a field of 14 entrants in which Peter gained 5th place in the finals.  Peter has now graduated to the position of Senior Carillonist here at the National Carillon. 

This concert will be the last for 2019 as the iconic Carillon undergoes a number of significant improvement to be ready to ring out again in time for its 50th Anniversary in April 2020.

A gift from the British Government to the people of Australia, Queen Elizabeth II accepted the National Carillon on behalf of Australians on 26 April 1970. April 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of the Carillon and to mark this important date the National Capital Authority (NCA) is undertaking a number of works to enhance this magnificent musical instrument.

Part of these works include the addition of two new bells, a G Bell weighing over 5 tonne and a D bell that can practically fit in your pocket. The addition of these bells will enhance the musicality of the Carillon.

Modifications and enhancements to Aspen Island will also be carried out. These works include path and landscaping upgrades, as well as improvements to the island’s beach.

To facilitate these important works Aspen Island and the Carillon will be closed from,

Monday 9 September 2019 until early April 2020.

The Westminster chimes will not operate during the works. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and look forward to welcoming everyone back to the new and improved National Carillon for its important Anniversary year.