Special new musical composition created for the centenary of the Carillon Tower

It will first be played on Saturday 22nd July.

A new musical composition has been specially written to mark the centenary year of Loughborough’s Carillon Tower.

The musical piece, ‘Silent Chimes’, has been created by composer Pip Greasley from Rothley.

Composer Pip Greasley, said: “When the original instrument was built as a war memorial, each of its 47 donated bells were cast with an inscription to a lost family member. During the composition some of these bells will be struck and their inscriptions read. 

“The deeper notes of C sharp and E flat are missing and yet have the mechanism for striking them. So when the carillonneur strikes the C sharp baton there will be a moment of silence.

“I hope the silence will resonate a more universal meaning. Personally, I think of the families and children currently caught in the cross-fire of conflict, but it can also signify a silent space for a moment of individual reflection.”

It can be first heard at the Carillon Tower centenary event on Saturday 22nd July.

The borough’s carillonneur Caroline Sharpe will play the piece as part of a Service of Thanksgiving at 2pm.

Caroline Sharpe, said: “It has been an honour to work alongside Pip who has created this wonderful piece of music for the centenary of the Carillon Tower.”

A civic service and a family picnic will also be taking place during the afternoon,

The Carillon Tower will be open for visitors to explore and visitors will be able to take in the views of Loughborough from the top of the tower. 

Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr Margaret Smidowicz, said: “It is very exciting that a new piece of music has been composed to mark this special year as we celebrate the centenary of the Carillon Tower.  Thank you to both Pip and Caroline for their contribution to what I know will be a memorable event.

“I look forward to hearing it being played on Saturday July 22.”