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The magnificent 48-bell carillon in the church’s tower is played daily and for special events by a team of volunteer carillonneurs.
 What is carillon?
A carillon is a set of 23 or more cast bronze bells tuned similarly, arranged in chromatic series, and played from a keyboard permitting control of expression through variation of touch. Our bells are located in the tower of the church.
How many bells are at HPUMC?
We have 48 bells, the largest weighing slightly over 5100 pounds, and the smallest weighing approximately 26 pounds.
Who made our bells?
The Paccard Bell Foundry in Annecy, France made our bells. They were installed in 1984 and first heard in an evening service on December 16,1984.
How does carillon work?
Only the clappers move. The bells are bolted rigidly to steel or wooden bases. Once struck, a bell rings until its sound dies away naturally.
How is the carillon played?
The performer (carillonneur) plays with closed hands on baton-like keys and with both feet on the pedal keyboard. The clappers are connected through a series of direct mechanical linkages to the keyboard. Carillonneurs and would-be carillonneurs at HPUMC are fortunate that the Porter Carillon installation includes in addition to the performance consold (linked directly to the bells - which broadcast the music to the immediate community) a practice console that simulates the sounds of the bells, sounds not heard beyond the practice room.
Where do you listen?
The Carillon is best heard from outside the Sanctuary on the South or East side or in the Margaret Jonsson Garden. It is played regularly on Sundays following the 9:30 and 11:00 worship service, midday during the week, and often around 5:00 pm in the afternoon. The Carillon is usually pealed (not played) at weddings and after funerals; however, arrangements can be made to have musical selections played on the Carillon on these occasions.
Are carillons expensive?
Known as "the King's instrument", the carillon includes bells (usually in a tower), a performance console, and sometimes a practice console as well. Costs vary according to the number of bells and other appurtenances chosen so that each carillon installation is unique. A considerable initial investment is required, and as with any fine musical instrument, proper maintenance as well as occasional repair is necessary. The Porter Memorial Carillon was a gift to the church by two longtime HPUMC members, Alicia Porter Washam and Rufus (Buddy) Porter. It was dedicated “to the glory of God” and given to honor the memory of their parents. The Porter Memorial Carillon is the only carillon in the North Texas area that meets the requirements for a concert carillon: a minimum of 48 bells, played mechanically by striking batons.
Who plays the Carillon?
Our Carillon is played by dedicated volunteers and occasionally by artists from other parts of the world. Lorn Howard, Gretchen Ryan, Mary Dibble, John Acker, Carmen McMillan and Jane Admire are current carillon volunteers. If you are interested in playing, you may contact our Director of Music and Arts, Bradley Welch at 214-523-2253.
Gretchen Ryan is one of several volunteer carillonneurs at Highland Park United Methodist Church and also plays for the December Carol service at St. Mark’s School for Boys. She has been a member of the GCNA since 1995. Gretchen has a B.M. from the University of North Texas (Denton) and an M.A. from West Texas State (Canyon). She has taught in elementary schools in Texas, Florida, New Jersey, Maryland, Oklahoma and Venezuela. She was on the staff for two summers (1954-1955) at the Interlochoen Music Camp in Michigan. She was a volunteer pianist for the American churches in London, England and Stavanger, Norway. Gretchen takes carillon lessons from George Gregory in San Antonio.
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