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The Hand Bell Choir, Evensong, began rehearsals in early 2007 and has played at the Palm Sunday and the 4th Sunday of Easter liturgies. Eight ringers, three veterans of 20 years of ringing and five new ringers, gathered for weekly rehearsals and were able to play at Mass by the end of April. As a director, I was very proud of the dedication and accomplishment of these great people, and I think they had a good time along the way.
We will continue performing at Mass in September, and we will add more ringers to our numbers. St. John's owns a full four octaves of bells, all but three of a fifth octave, and three octaves of hand chimes. That's a lot of bells that deserve to have their voices heard. To play three octaves, we need 11 ringers; to play the full five octaves, we need 13 ringers.
I think that many in the congregation have wanted to try playing bells, but have been just a little hesitant to give it a try. So, this summer, we are offering six sessions where it will be possible to try playing bells with no obligation. These sessions are meant to give everyone an opportunity to play, learn more about techniques, and meet new people along the way. Each session is standalone. You can come to one or as many as you would like. At the beginning of each session, basic bell ringing will be taught, and, in the second half, some new style or technique will be explored. Sessions are open to those 10 years old & up.
Families are welcome, but we don't offer childcare for those under 10 years of age. Men, please come! Bell choirs are not hen parties, and we need a variety of ringers to ring the many types of bells that we have. Sometimes big hands are a big help. Please join us this summer for some fun with hand bells under no obligation other than to enjoy yourself. Watch for reminders in the weekly Sunday bulletin.
Who: Anyone 10 years of age or older with some music
reading ability or background.
What: Six standalone sessions on making music with hand bells.
Where: St. John's Parish Center in the St. Cecilia Music Room (lower level, Room 101).
When: Tuesdays, July 10 through August
14, 6:45 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
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