EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Wendell Westcott, who as Michigan State University carillonneur made Beaumont Tower sing for more than 40 years, died April 30. He was 99.
He played the carillon from 1941 to 1987 and also served as professor of piano. A College of Music alumnus, Westcott's musical career began at age 14, at which time he was the assistant organist at a church in Jackson, Mich., where he was born.
In addition to serving as accompanist to the Army chaplain during World War II, Westcott studied at the Royal Carillon School in Mechelin, Belgium, and earned high honors.
In 1970, Westcott published "Bells and Their Music."
"Thousands of MSU students and faculty throughout the generations have enjoyed the traditions and music of the Beaumont Tower carillon," said Jim Forger, dean of the College of Music. "They probably did not know it was Wendell Westcott who brought the carillon alive for them. We will miss this talented and devoted teacher and performer, whose long service to MSU touched many lives."
Although best known for his mastery of the Beaumont carillon, Westcott also founded the Spartan Bell Ringers in the mid-1950s. The hand bell group toured the country, performing for Vice President Richard Nixon at a White House Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
Even though the climb to the carillon is 72 steps, Westcott continued playing until he was 96 years old. He also played piano, for four hours a day, until he lost his hearing at age 97.
"Wendell was highly respected and justifiably famous for his romantic playing style and his arrangements of popular and folk tunes for the carillon," said current university carillonneur Ray McLellan. "I so appreciated his support of our carillon recitals by his faithful attendance."
McLellan will play a tribute to Westcott 6 p.m. July 14 as part of the Muelder Summer Carillon Series.
Westcott is survived by his wife of 62 years, Iris, a daughter, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Family will receive friends from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 4, at Gorsline Runciman East Chapel, 1730 East Grand River Ave., East Lansing. Services will follow at 2 p.m. with Pastor Ed Reynolds of Vineyard Christian Fellowship of Lansing officiating.
For more information on the Beaumont Tower carillon, visit http://www.music.msu.edu/outreach/outreach_carillon.php.
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