John Courter, an award-winning carillon performer and composer, will kick off a three-part recital series on the University of Rochester River Campus. The Hopeman Memorial Carillon Summer Recital Series will begin at 7 p.m. Monday, July 17, at the Eastman Quadrangle, located in front of Rush Rhees Library.
The evening's program includes music from the Baroque era, such as Johann Sebastian Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" and Henry Purcell's "Rondeau from Abdelzaer"; international folk songs, including "Mary of Argyle" and "Waltzing Matilda"; and variations on "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star." Courter will also perform Richard Rodgers' film and stage music as well as an Aaron Copland piece, "Midday Thoughts for Piano," to mark the 100th anniversary of the composer's birth.
The Hopeman Memorial Carillon, one of only six carillons in New York state, is located in the landmark tower of Rush Rhees Library. Weighing almost three-and-a-half tons, it consists of 50 stationary cast bronze bells that are sounded by clappers, which are connected to 48 wooden keys or 26 pedals. The carillonneur sits on a bench and plays by depressing the keys with both hands and feet. As with a piano, expressive playing is achieved by varying the touch.
The concert is free and open to the public. Subsequent concerts will take place on July 31 with George Gregory and August 7 with Gloria Werblow. For additional information, contact the music department at (585) 275-2828.