Carillon Concert Series in Norwood-July 24, 1986

As the sun began to set on July 24, 1986, the town of Norwood was abuzz with excitement as it prepared to host a unique and captivating event. A nine-ton transportable carillon from Norway would be rolling into the town center that very night as part of an ongoing series of Friday night concerts. This extraordinary instrument, known for its 52 bells and intricate mechanism, was set to be played by two renowned carillonneurs: Timothy Hurd, national carillonneur of New Zealand, and Sydney J. Shep, a skilled musician from the University of Toronto.

The carillon, an ancient bell instrument with cables connecting the bell clappers to their respective keys in a specially constructed keyboard, was an engineering marvel. Its cast bronze bells were visible, suspended in a self-contained steel frame designed for easy transport and installation. This remarkable instrument was not only the newest but also the largest of its kind ever built, making it a true spectacle that would captivate audiences from all over.

Assistant Town Manager Bernard Cooper had been instrumental in organizing this event, which was expected to draw hundreds of spectators to the town center. To accommodate the large crowd, Nahant Street would be blocked off, allowing everyone to gather and enjoy the concert without any obstructions. According to Cooper, the 50-bell carillon located in the 100-foot tower of town hall was not easily accessible due to its location high above ground level. This event provided an opportunity for everyone to see what this magnificent instrument looked like up close.

The program for the evening’s concert included a diverse range of pieces, including The Stars and Stripes Forever, Over the Rainbow, The Whistler and his Dog, and Marche Militaire by Schubert. These classic compositions would be performed on the carillon in a way that showcased its unique capabilities and beauty.

As the night fell over Norwood, the town center was filled with anticipation and excitement. The arrival of the transportable carillon marked an important milestone in the ongoing series of Friday night concerts, which were scheduled to continue through August. This event not only highlighted the town’s commitment to cultural enrichment but also provided a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to experience the beauty and majesty of this ancient instrument.

The concert was set to take place between 7 and 8 p.m., with Timothy Hurd and Sydney J. Shep taking turns playing the carillon’s keys by hand and foot, bringing the bells to life in a mesmerizing display of sound and movement. As the night wore on, the crowd would be treated to an unforgettable experience, one that would leave a lasting impression on all who attended.

In the years leading up to this event, Norwood had been working tirelessly to establish itself as a hub for cultural and artistic expression. The town’s commitment to hosting events like the carillon concert series was a testament to its dedication to providing a rich and vibrant community experience for its residents. As the night of July 24, 1986, unfolded, it was clear that this event would be an important milestone in Norwood’s history, one that would be remembered for years to come.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger