Las Vegas City Wire

The Smith Center for the Performing Arts in Las Vegas features a remarkable 16-story bell tower, which houses a carillon of 47 handcrafted bronze bells. This musical instrument is an integral part of the center's design and adds to its cultural significance in Las Vegas.

A carillon consists of at least 23 bells, each producing a unique note. They can be played individually to create melodies or together for chords. These instruments have historical roots dating back to medieval times when they were used to announce church services or events.

The bell tower's art-deco style draws inspiration from the Hoover Dam, combining historical elements with modern design. The local community also played a role in its creation; children participated in casting the bells, establishing a connection with Las Vegas' future.

The carillon represents an engineering achievement as well. Its acoustic isolation allows the bells to ring beautifully without interfering with performances inside The Smith Center. This ensures both live music and bell sounds can coexist harmoniously.

Crafted by Verdin, a Dutch company founded in 1842, these bells are part of a legacy that includes installations at prestigious locations such as The Smithsonian Institute, Walt Disney World, Notre Dame, and the Mayo Clinic.

"The Smith Center Bell Tower isn’t just a landmark," it stands as "a symbol of community, music and the history of Las Vegas." Visitors nearby might catch "the sound of bells ringing in the air."