by Greig Ashurst
In the world of music, the art of handbell/handchime ringing holds a unique place. A friend once said, “we are a niche.” And if you are a solo ringer, a small ensemble musician, or play bell trees, you are a niche within a niche.
Greig Ashurst
National Board President
This has a significant message for me. It seems that everyone in handbells has their niche, or two, or three. Their passion establishes a place where they can contribute to the greater handbell community. It is a small world, and I am privileged to witness the transformative power of this beautiful art form every day in my church and in the school where I teach. I am even beginning to see the transformation in my community after I gave a “Getting Started With Handbells” workshop to all of the public school music teachers in my district a couple of months ago. Today, I invite you to join me on a journey where we can grow this art form through inspiration, creativity, and inclusion. Each one of us has something to contribute. Let us explore together how we can build “a diverse community where handbell musicians of every skill level can realize their full potential” and experience the purest joy that comes with playing handbells.
At the heart of Handbell Musicians of America lies the spirit of volunteerism. It is through the selfless contributions of our members that we can create a vibrant and supportive community. By volunteering your time and skills, whether it’s organizing events, mentoring others, or assisting with administrative tasks, you play a vital role in advancing our shared mission. My time spent over the past three years creating and exhibiting at state music educators conferences in the Handbell Playground has been most rewarding.
Handbell events and concerts are the soul of our organization, where we nurture the art form and forge connections throughout the world. By actively participating in these events, whether as a performer, conductor, or audience member, you become part of a collective experience that is comparable to none. Since education is the cornerstone of growth and artistic mastery, Handbell Musicians of America is committed to providing exceptional learning opportunities for musicians of all levels. Distinctly Bronze and National Seminar not only refuel my musician/teacher batteries, but the incredible community of people that attend always refuels my soul. I implore you to support and spread the word about handbell workshops, seminars, and concerts. You may spark a fire in someone who has never experienced handbells before.
To ensure the longevity and vibrancy of our handbell community, we must actively seek out new members. Spread the word about Handbell Musicians of America and the joy of playing handbells. Reach out to musicians, music enthusiasts, and individuals seeking a creative outlet. Moreover, welcome new voices into our fold, embrace diversity, and celebrate the unique perspectives that each individual brings. Together, we can create a body of people where different backgrounds and experiences unite to create something truly magical. Handbell Musicians of America is not just an organization; it is a community of passionate individuals dedicated to the art of handbell/handchime ringing. Inspired by our shared love of handbell music, let’s continue to volunteer, participate, learn, share, and recruit. Join us in shaping a future where the beauty of handbells resonates far and wide, touching hearts and inspiring generations to come.
Greig Ashurst
Greig Ashurst
National Board President
This has a significant message for me. It seems that everyone in handbells has their niche, or two, or three. Their passion establishes a place where they can contribute to the greater handbell community. It is a small world, and I am privileged to witness the transformative power of this beautiful art form every day in my church and in the school where I teach. I am even beginning to see the transformation in my community after I gave a “Getting Started With Handbells” workshop to all of the public school music teachers in my district a couple of months ago. Today, I invite you to join me on a journey where we can grow this art form through inspiration, creativity, and inclusion. Each one of us has something to contribute. Let us explore together how we can build “a diverse community where handbell musicians of every skill level can realize their full potential” and experience the purest joy that comes with playing handbells.
At the heart of Handbell Musicians of America lies the spirit of volunteerism. It is through the selfless contributions of our members that we can create a vibrant and supportive community. By volunteering your time and skills, whether it’s organizing events, mentoring others, or assisting with administrative tasks, you play a vital role in advancing our shared mission. My time spent over the past three years creating and exhibiting at state music educators conferences in the Handbell Playground has been most rewarding.
Handbell events and concerts are the soul of our organization, where we nurture the art form and forge connections throughout the world. By actively participating in these events, whether as a performer, conductor, or audience member, you become part of a collective experience that is comparable to none. Since education is the cornerstone of growth and artistic mastery, Handbell Musicians of America is committed to providing exceptional learning opportunities for musicians of all levels. Distinctly Bronze and National Seminar not only refuel my musician/teacher batteries, but the incredible community of people that attend always refuels my soul. I implore you to support and spread the word about handbell workshops, seminars, and concerts. You may spark a fire in someone who has never experienced handbells before.
To ensure the longevity and vibrancy of our handbell community, we must actively seek out new members. Spread the word about Handbell Musicians of America and the joy of playing handbells. Reach out to musicians, music enthusiasts, and individuals seeking a creative outlet. Moreover, welcome new voices into our fold, embrace diversity, and celebrate the unique perspectives that each individual brings. Together, we can create a body of people where different backgrounds and experiences unite to create something truly magical. Handbell Musicians of America is not just an organization; it is a community of passionate individuals dedicated to the art of handbell/handchime ringing. Inspired by our shared love of handbell music, let’s continue to volunteer, participate, learn, share, and recruit. Join us in shaping a future where the beauty of handbells resonates far and wide, touching hearts and inspiring generations to come.
Greig Ashurst
