Netherlands Centennial Carillon
In the Middle Ages, bells became part of Europe’s religious soundscape. Travelling foundry workers cast huge bells on site for the great cathedrals. By the 16th century, the carillon had become a symbol of prosperity and achievement in Flemish and Dutch towns. The sounds of the bells were part of a town’s daily order.
The Netherlands Centennial Carillon was a gift from British Columbia’s Dutch community to honour Canada’s 100th birthday in 1967. It is housed at the top of the tower, which stands 27 metres (90 feet) tall.
This carillon, the largest in Canada, has 62 bells. To play, a musician has to climb the 75 steps of the spiral staircase and then a 10-step ladder to sit at the clavier. There, the carilloneur depresses the clavier’s keys and pedals to sound the bells and play a song.
The pitches of several bells commemorate specific events: D celebrates the founding of the Colony of Vancouver Island in 1849, E the founding British Columbia as a colony in 1858, and F-sharp their union in 1866; F rings for the Confederation of Canada in 1867 and G-sharp for British Columbia’s 1871 entry into the Confederation; and G remembers Canadian soldiers who gave their lives for the liberation of the Netherlands, 1940-45.
Visit the
What’s On calendar of events for the schedule of free recitals.
The Carillon has been updated with new music thanks to the assistance of Provincial Carilloneur Rosemary Laing and the kind folks at Royal Eijsbouts in the Netherlands.
Seasonal themes are played daily on the hour between 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The main themes are:
• Classical and Movies – January, February, March
• Spring and Love – April, May, June
• Flowers and Folk Music – July, August
• Winter and Water – September, October, November
• Festive Holiday – December
de zingende toren
the singing tower
Provincial carilloneur, Rosemary Laing. Herman Bergink, the first carilloneur, inside the
tower belfry.