Bell Chimes
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Chimes are sets of bells with a limited range of notes, which are struck with a beater. Bell chimes are not tuned to any definite pitch but give a gentle, tinkling sound. Similar sets using three to five bells of a much higher pitch are used in Japanese kabuki theater. These bell sets, also known as orugoru, are often attached to a wooden rack with the mouths of the bells pointing toward the player.
| Family |
| Percussions |
| Pitch range |
| None. |
| Material |
| Bronze. |
| Size |
| The diameters of these bells range from about 3-7 in (9-18 cm). |
| Origins |
| Bell chimes probably originated in China many centuries ago, but are now a popular musical instrument of Japan. |
| Classification |
| Idiophone: an instrument that produces its sound through the use of the material from which it is made, without needing strings or a stretched skin. |
| And also... |
| The European music box was introduced to Japan in the mid-1800s and its sound was compared to that of the bell chimes. In fact, the name "orugoru" was borrowed from "orgel". the Dutch word for music box. |
