By strictest definition a carillon is any set of fixed bells arranged in graduated order, played by some mechanical means. Generally, when we speak of a tower carillon such as is found in some of the world's great churches, we are referring to a musical instrument consisting of at least two octaves of cast bronze cup-shaped bells, tuned for harmonious effect and played from a console permitting the control of expression through variation in "touch". The bells are generally arranged chromatically, so that music in any key can be played. Carillon bells are not swung but are rather permanently fixed to a metal frame -- The bells themselves do not move, but rather the clappers strike the inside of the bells to produce a tone. In mechanical instruments, the clappers are connected by means of wires and a tracker system (similar in principle to that of an organ) to a playing console that controls both rhythm and dynamics. Carillon playing as an art form originated nearly 500 years ago in the area of Europe that now comprises the Netherlands, Belgium, and northern France, where the greatest number of carillons may still be found, with close to 400 in use. The first carillon in North America was installed at Notre Dame University in 1856, however most instruments on this side of the Atlantic were not built until the second or third decade of the twentieth century. Playing the Carillon The "traditional" mechanical carillon console consists of a double row of oak keys, or 'batons,' plus a pedal board of similar construction. The carillonneur plays the instrument by depressing these batons with loosely clenched fists.  This, by the way, is how the very first organ keyboards were played, and there was a time, now long and happily past (by 800 years or more) where the town organist was chosen more for his prodigious musculature than his musical acumen (!) -- It's not politically correct but in those dark days, nearly all organists were male, sorry ladies -- The batons are in standard keyboard arrangement, with the lower row corresponding to the white keys and the upper row to the black. The pedals, which are linked to the batons, are used to control the heavier bass bells.  A little about sound Because of their shape, bells generate certain harmonics, which are not present in other instruments --specifically the perfect fifth and the minor third above the primary tone. This last harmonic may cause carillon bells to sound "out of tune" to the unaccustomed ear. Yet the same harmonics, in the hands of a skilled composer or arranger, give the carillon its distinctive, rich sound.