What is a handbell choir?

A handbell choir is a group of musicians who ring handbells. Wesley Church has five octaves of Schulmerich handbells (a total of 61 bells). Depending on the size of the choir and the type of music being played, each player is assigned two or more notes.

Each player’s job is to watch for those notes when they occur in the music and play the bell at the right time. Wesley Church also uses five octaves of Malmark Choir Chimes, which are played in a way similar to bells but produce a different type of sound.

Celebration Ringers

Our adult handbell choir, the Celebration Ringers, rehearses on Wednesday, 6:15-7:45 p.m. in the Music Room. They ring once a month in the 11:00 a.m. Classic Worship Service.

If you have experience ringing handbells and would like to join the group then by all means come to a rehearsal.

Contact Becky Graybeal 

 KlangChor

KlangChor is a beginner’s bell choir for youth and adults. No music experience is necessary and all are welcome to join. We will show you how to ring bells and read music. Rehearsals are on Sunday from 8:30-9:00 a.m. in the Music Room. Contact Becky Graybeal 

GlockenChor

Our GlockenChor is a beginner’s chime choir for children in Second through Sixth Grade. We explore all the elements of a ringing choir in a simplistic and fun manner. There is no need to have a music background before participating in this group. It meets Sunday mornings from September through April in the Music Room situated next to the Atrium. The chime choir provides an opportunity for the Wesley Church children to take an active role in our worship services on a regular basis.

The children perform approximately once each month. Connect with Heather.

How are handbell choirs used in worship?

Wesley’s handbell choirs usually play standalone pieces, but occasionally they accompany the choir or support hymn singing with the congregation. They add a festive nature to worship both visually and aurally. They create atmosphere for worship – celebratory, joyful, somber, introspective, and everything in between. Handbells play many styles of music, including classical, gospel, contemporary, and spirituals.

How do I join one of the choirs?

If you or your children are interested in joining, please contact the director of the group that
interests you, or ask for us at church. You can also contact Heather Hunter .

New members and substitutes are welcome!