Five Days of Free Outdoor Recitals – 23 to 27 June 2025

Perth, Scotland – This summer, the historic heart of Perth will resonate with the sound of bells as St John’s Kirk hosts a special Carillon Festival from Monday 23 to Friday 27 June 2025. Over five days, the city’s landmark church will offer two daily recitals at 12 noon and 2pm, all free to the public, performed by some of the UK’s most celebrated carillonneurs.

Audiences are invited to listen outdoors—where the sound is most resonant—and to enjoy lunch or coffee at one of the many cafés and restaurants surrounding the Kirk. Whether sitting in the sunshine or exploring the High Street, visitors can enjoy a rare musical experience rooted in centuries-old tradition.

The festival will showcase a wide range of musical styles and interpretations, performed by distinguished artists from across the UK. The opening recital on Monday 23 June will feature Ian Cassells, Perth’s resident carillonneur for more than three decades, performing a specially curated programme of Danish music drawn from six centuries of melody.

Later that day, Falkirk-based duo Tom Moyes and Richard Laing will present an evocative selection of hymns and Scottish Psalms.

Tuesday’s performances will include Trevor Workman from Bournville, one of Britain’s best-known carillonneurs, offering a selection of well-loved classics. He will be perform at 12noon and 2pm on that day.

On Wednesday 25 June, Jonathan Bradley of Newcastle will present two back-to-back recitals under the theme “Carillon Memories”. The midday programme will focus on Baroque masters including Dowland, Byrd and Bach, while the afternoon performance will offer works by Mozart and original contemporary compositions by the performer himself.

Thursday will feature Ruth Irons from Dundee, performing music rooted in her home city’s traditions, followed by Ian Cassells’ return with “Perthshire Echoes”—a playful and tuneful recital of country dances and local musical surprises.

The festival will conclude on Friday 27 June with two powerful recitals by Michael Boyd, a virtuoso player based in Saltley. Boyd’s finale will include music by French, Dutch and Spanish composers, along with tributes to the late J.R. Knox and A. Skilbeck, two figures closely associated with St John’s Kirk and its carillon heritage.

The carillon at St John’s Kirk is one of only a few in Scotland. Installed in the 1930s, it consists of 35 bells cast by the renowned bell foundry Gillett & Johnston. Housed in the ancient tower of Perth’s oldest church, the carillon is celebrated for its expressive range and clear, melodious tone—ideally suited to both historic and modern works.

This year’s festival has been organised by Dr Ian Cassells, with support from the Friends of St John’s Kirk of Perth and Perth and Kinross Council. Their efforts ensure that this unique tradition continues to enrich the city’s cultural life and remains accessible to all.

For five days in June, Perth’s skyline will ring with beauty, memory and celebration. Whether you are a lifelong admirer of bell music or simply curious to hear something new, the Carillon Festival at St John’s Kirk promises a joyful and memorable experience for all.