Cathedral Bells: Lifting Up by Pulling Down

Chances are you've heard the cascade of bells from the Cathedral's Central Towers, but have you met the people who make it all possible?

Check out this video from WUSA9’s Sean Martinelli, who profiled members of the Washington Ringing Society, who have been working in rhythmic precision since 1963. As he put it, they lift up our souls by pulling down on those massive ropes.

This Cathedral is one of two in the world to have two different sets of bells: the Carillon, which acts like a giant piano (each bell is a different note) and can play pretty much any piece of music; and the peal bells, a set of 10 massive bells that are rung in mathematical patterns to produce that signature Cathedral sound.

There are 10 peal bells in the Cathedral tower, ranging from 600 to 3,500 pounds.

Typically, peal bells are rung on Tuesday nights (practice session) and on Sundays after church. The Carillon typically is played before church and for special weekend recitals.

The best way to see the Carillon or the ringing chamber is by taking a special tower climb, which are offered several times each month. Be sure to grab your tickets soon, because these tours routinely sell out.