Chiming In
Well-known handbell soloist and composer Susan T. Nelson recently passed away. The following is a tribute by her friend Rob Meyer-Kukan on Facebook.
Executive Notes
Help Expand Our Reach and Impact
Recently, I have been spending some time reviewing Handbell Musicians of America’s activities, as I do at the start of every October (our fiscal year ends on September 30). While I was certainly aware that we offered more events, I did not realize that our impact would be even greater than we imagined!
Membership Matters
Leaving a legacy isn’t always about wealth, fame, or monumental achievements. Sometimes, it’s about the quiet, resonant impact you make through passion, dedication, and the simple joy of sharing your craft. For handbell musicians, it can mean inspiring generations through the unique beauty of this art form.
From the President's Pen
Honored to Serve: A Journey of Leadership and Community
As I begin my final year of a six-year term on the national board of Handbell Musicians of America, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey this organization has taken—and the privilege it has been to walk alongside it.
What's Happening
The New Composers Initiative
Growing the Next Generation of Handbell Composers
The Donald E. Allured Original Composition Award is pleased to announce a new initiative for the creation of handbell music
Community Connections
Pinnacle Through the Years
Celebrating Community Ensembles and Expanding to All Performing Groups
2025 has been a nostalgic year for me. As a member of the local liaison team for Pinnacle this summer in Wichita, Kansas, I had performing handbell ensembles on my mind, naturally. And then, at some point in late summer, while decluttering my desk area, I unearthed my Pinnacle 2000 swag—a pleather notepad holder.
Feature
Photos from Pinnacle 2025 • Wichita, Kansas
Photos of the Handbell Musician Showcases at Pinnacle 2025 in Wichita, Kansas.
Handbells in Education
Twinkle, Twinkle
Introducing a New Handbell Technique from Students at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas
Many of our current techniques were discovered by ringers just “messing around” (Klocken Carta, Echoes) or with a flash of insight (Bell Trees, Aqua Bend). Here’s a new one for you!
Music for Members
Deck the Halls
Here is a piece for 8 bells and an optional 9th by Mitchell Eithun.
