Did you know The Smith Center for the Performing Arts has a 16-story bell tower? Right at the heart of this stunning building is a carillon—a set of 47 beautifully handcrafted bronze bells that span four octaves. It’s not just a piece of the design; the carillon adds a rich, musical element that really enhances the vibe of the entire Smith Center, making it an even bigger part of the Las Vegas cultural scene.
What Exactly is a Carillon?
A carillon is a musical instrument made up of at least 23 bells, each one producing a unique note. They are played individually to create melodies or together for chords, and the more bells there are, the more range it has. These bells originated in medieval times to announce things like church services or events.
History and Design
The bell tower’s art-deco style is inspired by the Hoover Dam, so it has a mix of historical significance and modern flair.
Connection to the Community
One of the coolest things about the carillon is how the community got involved. Local kids helped in casting the bells, which gives the tower a tie to the future of Las Vegas.
An Engineering Feat
The carillon is also an impressive feat of engineering. The way the bells are isolated acoustically means they can ring out beautifully, but without disrupting the performances inside the Smith Center. It’s a neat way to let both the live music and the bells play their part without stepping on each other’s toes.
Craftsmanship That Lasts
The 47 bells weigh in at 29,500 pounds, and they were made by Verdin, a Dutch company with a history dating back to 1842. They’ve crafted bells that are found in over 50,000 locations worldwide, including places like The Smithsonian Institute, Walt Disney World, Notre Dame, and the Mayo Clinic. And now, The Smith Center is part of that legacy.
The Smith Center Bell Tower isn’t just a landmark, it is a symbol of community, music and the history of Las Vegas. So, next time you're nearby, take a moment to listen. You might just catch the sound of bells ringing in the air.
