How does a bell choir work?
A handbell is rung by grasping it by the handle and moving the wrist, causing the clapper inside (which is on a hinge) to strike the outside of the bell, producing the sound. Ringers can then put down and pick up bells as they are needed, and they can also use the tables themselves to create other effects.
How do you ring handbells?
Ringing techniques. To ring a handbell, the ringer moves it in such a way that the clapper strikes the inside surface of the bell, usually holding it against his or her shoulder, bell upwards, and then swinging the bell through an elliptical shape to cause the clapper to strike the casting.
Is it hard to play handbells?
It is difficult to play handbells quickly, but it is possible. How do I do a ring touch? Ring touching (RT) is ringing the bell and immediately damping the bell on your shoulder. To ring touch, you keep the bell close to where you dampen it.
What is handbell ringing called?
Campanology
Campanology (from Late Latin campana, “bell”; and Greek -λογία, -logia) is the study of bells. It encompasses the technology of bells – how they are cast, tuned, rung, and sounded – as well as the history, methods, and traditions of bell-ringing as an art.
What’s the best way to start a handbell choir?
Begin by setting up the bells on the padded table in keyboard order, lowest to highest, and like a piano, with white keys toward the front edge of the table and black keys further back. Note: Handbells sound one octave higher than written.
How to start a choir with no experience?
How to Start a Handbell Choir (With Zero Experience): A Step-By-Step Guide 1 Getting Organized. Let’s begin by talking about the necessary equipment and supplies. 2 Setting Up + Learning How to Ring. 3 Teaching by Rote. 4 Introducing Music-Reading. 5 Teaching Handbell Notation & Special Techniques. 6 Using Bells in Worship.
How many octaves are there in a handbell processional?
Processionals and acclamations are usually fairly simple to pick up and learn without notation. Here are a few to consider: Well-Tempered Handbell Processionals (arr. Charles E. Peery) – 2-3 octaves or 4-5 octaves Four Pieces for Advent (Ashley Danyew) – 2 octaves (12 bells)
What do you need to know about teaching handbells?
Much of what’s involved in teaching handbells comes back to rhythm, so do whatever you can to help your players develop rhythmic reading skills and a strong, internal sense of steady beat. This will set you (and your ringers!) up for success down the road.
