Tomorrow, Australians will unite to commemorate Anzac Day, honouring the sacrifices made during the Great War, across various landscapes, from urban areas to remote countryside. A notable tribute will take place at the University of Sydney, where the Carillion will resonate as a unique war memorial.
Titus Greyner, the university’s organist and carillionist, reflects on the Carillion’s historical significance, noting it has been played on Anzac Day since 1928. This remarkable structure was established through crowdfunding efforts in the early 1920s, initiated by students who sought to pay tribute to 197 of their classmates and staff members who lost their lives in the conflict. The bells were crafted in the UK and delivered to the university, travelling through city streets by horse and dray before being installed in the quadrangle tower.
The Carillion features 54 bells, each linked to a distinct key. The largest, known as the AIF bell, represents the Australian Imperial Forces. Unlike traditional church bells rung by hand, the Carillion allows for the performance of melodies, offering a diverse range of musical expression.
Following the university’s dawn service at 5:15 am, the Carillion will continue to provide a musical tribute throughout the day. Visitors can also tour this extraordinary musical instrument, one of the largest of its kind in the world. While the Carillion is often used for celebratory events like graduations, it stands as a poignant reminder that it can also be dedicated to reflective and solemn moments.