by Jill Boday

’d like to thank the Handbell Choir for their wonderful performances during the Christmas Season. They all put in so much time and practice to enhance our worship services, making Christmas time that much more special! Though our performances will be a little less frequent, we will still provide special music throughout the winter months.

In addition to church services, many of our handbell members have been or will be participating in upcoming workshops. Margaret and I attended a Winter Workshop at UMass, Amherst from January 25-26. It was sponsored by the Handbell Musicians of America. As usual, it was a fun and educational experience!!

On March 8th the Handbell Choir will be participating in a “Totally Tins” one-day workshop in Whitinsville, MA. This is designed specifically for beginner ringers. Several of our members have been ringing for a few years, but it’s always helpful to revisit the basics! The clinician will be Kimberlee Strepka, an outstanding music educator who will be sharing her expertise in “Laban Movement (Dance) Analysis” as it relates to handbell ringing! Fascinating stuff! If you are curious about handbells, even if you don’t read music, or haven’t participated in music in a long time, YOU can join us for this workshop!!

There are spots still available!! It is only $15 for the day. Won’t you join us? Ask me any questions! Send me an email: [email protected].

Exciting news for our kids: I will be starting up a children’s chimes choir!! We will begin by trying it out during Sunday School in February. Once we are established, we will showcase our new music skill during a church service. If your child is interested, just let me know. This will be fun! As always, kids in grades 5-12 are welcome to try handbells, too!

More music and workshops to come!
Happy winter