The carillon is the largest concert instrument in existence and belongs to the percussion family. The challenge of playing and composing for the carillon is that once a bell is rung it cannot be stopped. No damping is possible and the hum tone resonates for an extended amount of time.
The Bourdon for both Sydney University and the National Carillon is G. (The Bourdon is the largest bell in a carillon, and sounds the lowest note.)
Carillons range in size from almost two octaves to over six octaves or from a minimum of 23 bells to as many as 77. Most contemporary carillon music, and much historic music, is written for carillons with a range of four or more octaves. Almost all carillon music can be played on such an instrument.
You can find out more about compositions for Australian Carillons composing.