The Mahanay Memorial Carillon Tower in Jefferson will open officially for the 2018 season on Saturday, May 5. Hours will be 10 am to 4 pm Saturdays and Sundays in May and then daily beginning Memorial Day weekend. With the increased visitors in 2017 during the month of September, the Bell Tower Community Foundation board decided to remain open daily for the month of September and weekends in October.
The tower is also available by appointment by calling the Greene County Chamber & Tourism office at 515-386-2155. Pat Richards continues as the tower staff coordinator with an experienced group of staff returning for the 2018 season.
The Mahanay Memorial Carillon expanded to 47 bells on Memorial Day weekend in 2017. The Mahanay music committee contacted local musicians with at least two years of piano experience to play the bells for the daily Tower Tunes Live concerts from 12:15 – 12:30 pm each day. These concerts will begin on Memorial Day weekend and continue through Labor Day weekend.
Musicians can choose their own music. The bells are played on a digital keyboard connected to the bells. The musicians who played last year enjoyed the experience of playing such a large instrument. Becky Greiner, Peg Raney and Richards are collecting names and contact information for anyone wanting to be added to the list. Musicians can also email mahanaybelltower@gmail.com A calendar will be sent out for musicians to choose when they would like to play.
Season passes for 2018 will be available at the Mahanay Tower for $15. This allows the individual to visit the tower and ride the elevator to the top for the entire season.
The website and Facebook page are also kept up-to-date with pictures and information about the Mahanay Memorial Carillon Tower. The board encourages people to check these out and share with visitors.
