Chimes

Chimes are sets of resonant tubes or bells designed to produce musical tones. The term covers decorative wind chimes, pitched percussion such as tubular bells, and the bell sounds used by clocks and carillons to mark time.

Wind chimes hang from a frame and consist of metal tubes, glass, or other materials suspended by cords. Length, diameter, and material determine pitch and timbre. When moved by wind or touched, the tubes ring in sympathetic resonance, producing soft or bright tones that are often used for ambiance and meditation.

Tubular bells, also called chimes in percussion contexts, are long metal tubes suspended in a frame and arranged in scales. They are struck with mallets to produce sustained, bell-like tones. They are common in orchestras, bands, and percussion ensembles and are valued for their bright, penetrating sound.

Clock chimes refer to the sequences of bell sounds used by tower clocks and carillons. Famous patterns include the Westminster chimes and bells that strike on the hour and quarter hours. Carillons use a keyboard or automatic mechanism to play melodies across many bells.

Materials such as steel, aluminum, or bronze affect durability and tone. Tubes and bells vary in length and wall thickness, shaping pitch and sustain. Tuning is precise to align pitches across an instrument, and maintenance is required to keep mechanisms functional and resonators in good condition.