Honors Program Theses

Award/Availability

Open Access Honors Program Thesis

First Advisor

Erik Rohde

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to explore the role of mobile carillons in honoring the traditions of carillonneurs and universities alike. I will first discuss the history of carillons and the tradition of carillonneurs, as well as the possible impacts of exposing the technical skill required to play such a public instrument that yet uniquely isolates the performer. I will then explain the various roles that mobile carillons have served and their gradual development over the years. The purpose of mobile carillons fluctuated, first beginning as a sales tactic, then a concert instrument—which eventually became a science experiment—a home salon instrument until World War Two, and then their triumphant return to a concert instrument. In honoring the tradition of universities, this thesis delves into the recent project completed by Iowa State University. In an effort to share carillon music, Iowa State carillonneurs use the mobile carillon as a replica of the iconic University campanile, serving as both a concert instrument and an outreach tool for students and alumni alike. This approach widely honors the traditional role of campaniles and carillons for educational institutions. To conclude, I interview a few professional carillonneurs about the feasibility of bringing a similar project to life here at the University of Northern Iowa as well as explore the impact a mobile carillon could have on inspiring the next generation of carillonneurs and protecting the dying art form.

Year of Submission

2024

Department

School of Music

University Honors Designation

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the designation University Honors

Date Original

5-2024

Object Description

1 PDF (26 pages)

Language

en

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