Federation Bells is a musical installation of 39 bronze bells on Melbourne’s Lower Birrarung walkway, near Birrarung Marr. The bells play compositions at set times, including music written for the installation, and their clear sound can carry as far as Federation Square. Stop to listen, or take in the bells and their shadows among the park and city surroundings. It makes a pleasant pause on a riverside walk, especially on a weekend when the area can feel more peaceful.
A carillon with its own sound
Federation Bells is a musical installation on the Lower Birrarung walkway, a short walk from Birrarung Marr. Its 39 bronze bells create a carillon, but the music includes compositions written specifically for this set of bells.
The sound is clear and carries across the surrounding area. You may hear it from Federation Square, so the bells can catch your attention before you reach the installation.
When to hear the bells
Listed performance periods are 8am to 9am, 12:30pm to 1:30pm and 5pm to 6pm. The schedule has not always matched the actual playing times, so allow for some uncertainty if you are planning your walk around a particular set.
The bells and their shadows are also a subject for photographs when they are not playing. The park setting brings the city and natural surroundings into the same view.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where are the Federation Bells?
They are on the Lower Birrarung walkway in Melbourne, a short walk from Birrarung Marr.
When do the Federation Bells play?
Listed performance times are 8am to 9am, 12:30pm to 1:30pm and 5pm to 6pm. The actual playing times have not always matched the schedule.
How many bells are there?
The installation has 39 bronze bells.
