Tuesday, July 9, 1968
THE SUMMER ISSESSION KANSAN
3
ALBERT GERKEN
Albert Gerken pounds hard to master KU carillon bells
By Linda Ehrlich
Journalism Camp Reporter KU's hills are alive with the sound of music.
Chimes from the 53 bells in the World War II Memorial Campanile fill the air each Wednesday night and Sunday afternoon as Albert C. Gerken, assistant professor of music theory, performs on the intricate carillon. Captivating all those nearby, Gerken brings to life works by such composers as Beethoven, Bach, Haydn and Handel.
ORIGINATED IN THE Netherlands in the 1500s, this instrument uses wooden baton-like keys which are struck with the side of the closed hand. The clapper of the bells varies in loudness as it responds to the touch of the carilonneur on the clavier (keyboard) or on the 27 pedals.
"I try to prepare musically sophisticated programs with enough variety in tempo and mood to say something to various types of people," this quiet-mannered man explained. Besides the original carillon pieces, Gerken uses eighteenth and twentieth century works and some simple folk songs. He claims that the compositions for the carillon by former KU pianist Roy Johnson are the hardest to master.
"These bells, made in Loughborough, England, are one of the finest sets in the world," Gerken said. Varying from seven tons to ten pounds, each was placed in the 120-foot Mt. Oread monument in honor of an individual or group.
Avery-
Avery answered questions from the audience on subjects ranging from foreign aid to gun restrictions. He said he did not approve of Abe Fortas' appointment as chief justice of the Supreme Court.
Continued from page 1
In conclusion, Avery explained his "Let's Save America First," platform. The platform contains four planks:
- If peace negotiations fail, the U.S. must devote its full strength to winning the Vietnam War.
- The Foreign Aid Program must be stopped.
- The Space Administration appropriations should be reduced by 50 per cent.
- Savings from the reductions in foreign aid and space should be used for jobs and training.
piano. He is now a member of the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America and editor of their official publication, "The Bulletin." Gerken recently played a formal recital at their congress at the Bok Singing Tower in Lake Wales, Fla.
Beneath the small room in the bell tower housing the keyboard is a practice studio which uses tuned metal bars instead of bells. Gerken gives lessons in this area during the year.
WHEN HIS CURIOUSITY was aroused while attending the University of Michigan in 1962, Gerken added carillon study to his previous work with the organ and
"I'm interested in music as an art form," Gerken pointed out. Calling most popular music "left overs," he said that classical music, his favorite, has more significance and meaning. He feels that university campuses are one of the few places today which can be instrumental in exposing the public to this kind of music.
TRAVEL TIME
LET
MAUPINTOUR TRAVEL SERVICE
Make Your SUMMER TRAVEL Reservation Now! Malls Shopping Center VI 3-1211
The Castle Tea Room
IN LAWRENCE
STILL THE MOST UNIQUE RESTAURANT
There has to be a good reason why students and faculty alike continue year after year, to patronize us. It could be our warm, friendly atmosphere, fine food, "Old World" decor, or just the fact that we're different. Our four dining rooms, furnished in birch, cherry, walnut, and oak, are perfect for dinner dates, meetings, and even wedding receptions. But, whatever the reason may be, we're glad you've made us the most popular restaurant in Lawrence. We've been that way for 20 years.
If you're new in Lawrence, we'd like to get acquainted with you. If you already know about us, you will be glad to know that we're still here. We haven't changed!
LIBUSE KRIZ
Phone VI 3-1151
1301-11 Mass. St.
JoAnn G. Nelson files for Demo 40th nomination
Mrs. JoAnn Gresham Nelson, 23 and a senior in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has filed for the Democratic candidacy for the House of Representatives from the 40th district.
Mrs. Nelson filed for office "when it became apparent that the major problems facing the state and the community were not going to be solved adequately by the present Republican dominated legislature."
Patronize Kansan Advertisers
"LOVING COUPLES"
(Sweden, 1965)
Wed., July 10—7:30—Dyche-$.75
BASS SUNJUNS
Rugged man-tailored sandals in a sunburst of styles.
From the makers of Bass Waeejuns®
Bass
819 Mass.
VI 3-3470