UC Berkeley Appointed Simone Browne as Carillonist
The musician steps into the permanent role after two years of service as the university's interim carillonist.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in People
The University of California Berkeley has officially named Simone Browne as its new carillonist. Browne succeeds former carillonist Jeff Davis, who retired from the position in 2024.
Why it matters
The appointment secures leadership for the university's music department and the historic Sather Tower carillon. Browne previously maintained the program's operations during a two-year interim period.
Simone Browne has performed on more than 90 carillons throughout her career. She holds both a licentiate carillonneur diploma and a specialization certification from the Royal Carillon School.
The players
Simone Browne
She is the newly appointed carillonist at the University of California Berkeley and the vice president of the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America.
Jeff Davis
He is the former University of California Berkeley carillonist who retired from the university in 2024.
The details
Browne has already contributed to the Berkeley campus by playing regular recitals on the Sather Tower carillon and instructing the carillon studio. She currently serves as the vice president of the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America.
Timeline
Jeff Davis retired from the position in 2024.
Simone Browne served in an interim capacity for the last two years.
The official announcement was recorded on September 30, 2026.
Market Landscape
The appointment follows professional standards set by the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America, which governs the certification of carillonists across the continent. This move solidifies the university's commitment to maintaining its specialized music program amid an ongoing shift toward professionalizing university-based carillon positions.
The Berkeley community will continue to hear recitals from the Sather Tower under Browne's permanent direction. Students enrolled in the Department of Music will maintain access to the carillon studio as instruction continues under the new appointment.
The takeaway
The transition to a permanent carillonist ensures the preservation of the university's unique musical legacy. Residents and students can expect continued public performances that maintain the auditory character of the campus.
Further reading
For more updates on faculty and staff at the university, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Thediapason.
