So you want to play the bells?
DeCal, short for Democratic Education at Cal, is a process where students can organize courses at UC Berkeley. Each semester, we organize a 1-unit class where anyone can learn to play the carillon. We teach you about the history of the instrument and have you listen and think about different styles of carillon music. We also have 1-on-1 practice sessions each week between you and a Guild member to work on pieces and technique. At the end of the semester, we have a Final Recital where the DeCal students perform for the entire campus!
To apply for the DeCal, please visit our Instagram @ucbells near the beginning of each semester for application details and deadlines. We require a bit of music experience, including basic sight-reading and knowing some notes and some scales. If you’d like more information, email us at calbells@gmail.com or message us on Instagram.
To take lessons with the University Carillonist, you can audition for Music 40. Simone Browne takes about 4 students per year, usually in the fall semester (occasionally in the spring semester, too). She generally expects that once you begin lessons, you will continue as long as you are at UC Berkeley.
This option is a larger commitment than the DeCal option. It is for people who really want to study carillon. If you find yourself truly fascinated by the bells, contact Simone Browne about auditions. Applicants should have significant musical experience. Of course, you can always talk to us (the Guild) about what it’s like! (When you begin lessons with Simone Browne, you become a member of the Berkeley Carillon Guild.)
If you have played the carillon in the past, and would like a tour of the instrument and/or playing time, please contact Simone Browne or contact us to make arrangements.
The North American Carillon School offers education for musicians of all skill levels. More information here.
