Chiming In
Getting Back to (a New) Normal
As I prepare the layout for each issue of this journal, I have found myself disheartened the last couple of years that the Events Calendar had been shrinking steadily during the time of COVID. What had once easily taken two pages, eventually dwindled down to maybe a little over a half page, mostly with listings [...]
Executive Notes
A Rising Tide Raises All Boats
The primary goal of Handbell Musicians of America (the organization) is to support handbell musicians of America (the individuals).
Membership Matters
I used to get caught up in some pretty trivial handbell things—whether all the pearl necklaces on the female ringers were the same length or if everyone was wearing the same style of black gloves. Did the music folders align from the front AND the sides?
From the President's Pen
Every two years, handbell musicians from around the world gather to make music, learn new skills, celebrate different cultures, and visit with friends, old and new.
Handbells in Education
Stick Around and Ring
Music Teacher Starts an After School Handbell Club
When I founded the Mount Hope Elementary Handbells Club in 2016 ... I asked in my job interview what instruments the school owns. The then-principal said, “I think we even have handbells in the back of a closet somewhere,” I blurted out, “Oh! I play those! Let me start an after-school club!” I had no [...]
Community Connections
Connecting Live Once Again
In-Person Connections Through and Within the Community Ensemble
I was approached last Sunday after service by several people asking me when Tintab (my community ensemble Tintabulations) would perform there again. “We just love watching you all play! You draw us in, and we want to be up there with you.” I can’t think of a better compliment than that. It got me thinking, [...]
Solo, Ensemble, Bell Tree Enthusiasts
From “Red Book” to 8-in-Hand
One Person’s Journey as a Handbell Soloist
My first “touch” with solo handbells came in 1992 when an 83-year-old ringer in my newly-formed bell choir at church asked me for help with learning a handbell solo. What? Was I supposed to know something about that?!
Tips & Tools
To the Glory of God – Howard Starks
Here is a piece from the AGEHR Publishing Catalog, courtesy of Handbell Musicians of America.
Feature
Business Members Buyers’ Guide
Following is a list of our current business members (as of August 15, 2022) along with their contact information.
