The Accidental Maestro of Mayo Clinic's Bells

The Mayo Clinic carillon in Rochester, Minnesota, has been a musical fixture for almost a century, originally intended as a war memorial. Brothers Charles and William Mayo conceived the idea after their World War I service to honor fallen soldiers. This grand instrument, comprising 56 bells, stands as one of the world's largest carillons and is the biggest in Minnesota.

Austin Ferguson, the fourth full-time carillonneur in Mayo Clinic history, operates the instrument daily. He sits 19 stories above the street, managing the 56-bell carillon mechanically. Ferguson describes his entry into this role as an "accident," having found himself in the right place at the right time during his high school and college years.

Patients and residents find solace and a sense of home in the carillon's music. Ferguson cherishes feedback from those who have been touched by the melodies, particularly when a song reminds them of cherished memories or comforts them during difficult times. Performances are streamed online from Monday through Friday.