Ronald Barnes

American carillonist

Died: November 3, 1997

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Who was Ronald Barnes?

Ronald Montague Barnes (June 11, 1927 – November 3, 1997) was an American carillonist, composer, and musicologist. In 1952, at 24 years old, he was appointed to play the carillon at the University of Kansas, where he developed as a musician. He was later the carillonist for the Washington National Cathedral from 1963 to 1975 and the University of California, Berkeley, from 1982 until his retirement in 1995. He was an involved member of The Guild of Carillonneurs in North America, having served as its president, vice president, and several other roles. Barnes produced 56 original compositions and hundreds of arrangements. He also influenced how people play the carillon. Much of his music is considered the standard repertoire for carillon students and professionals. He published editions of early carillon manuscripts and sought to develop standards for carillon performance, repertoire, and design and construction.

Historical significance

He first began playing the carillon as a teenager at his hometown's church. He was a major force in establishing an American approach to writing music.

Sources and further reading

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MLA

“Ronald Barnes.” thisDay, thisday.info/people/ronald-barnes-carillonist/. Accessed 9 Nov. 2026.

APA

Ronald Barnes. (n.d.). thisDay. Retrieved November 9, 2026, from https://thisday.info/people/ronald-barnes-carillonist/

Chicago

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