Mahanay music coordinator Peg Raney is looking for keyboard musicians to join the ranks of the Mahanay Maestros. Experienced pianists and organists are invited to step into the Mahanay Bell Tower and perform on the 47-bell carillon on the courthouse square in Jefferson.
Every summer since 2017, the Mahanay Maestros bring the town to life during the Tower Tunes Live concert series. “Fifteen minute performances as local staple, featuring a diverse repertoire of recognizable melodies, patriotic anthems and hymns,” Raney said.
Tower Tunes Live concerts are Wednesdays from 12:15 to 12:30 pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Musicians select the specific dates they play and what they’ll play.
The Mahanay carillon is not operated by striking wooden batons, but by playing a keyboard very similar to a piano keyboard (pictured above with Mahanay Maestro Sheryl Sloan). No previous carillon experience is needed to be a Mahany Maestro, but interested musicians should have at least two years of previous piano experience. Specialized training on the carillon will be provided to all new Maestros.
The carillon is located up one flight of stairs inside the Mahanay Bell Tower.
“While these performances are volunteer-based, they offer the rare chance to be the ‘voice’ of Jefferson’s most iconic landmark,” Raney said.
The Mahanay Maestro application is available at www.mahanaybelltower.org under the “Join Our Team” section. “Join us in continuing a cherished local tradition and filling Jefferson with music for all to enjoy,” Raney said.
