What Are the Parts of a Handbell?
The handbell was invented in England in the early 1700s. Although a single handbell is often used in a non-musical environment, to cheer on an athlete or signal livestock, sets of handbells are played together by choirs and musical groups. Handbells can come in sets ranging from two octaves up through eight octaves. Although the design of the handbell is simple, it includes several unique parts that influence its sound and playing style.
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Bell
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The bell of a handbell is made of metal, typically brass. Each handbell is tuned to a specific note. Schulmerich, a popular American handbell manufacturer, adds a couple of unique features to the bell. First, the ideal striking location of the bell is marked upon tuning, and subsequently the clapper is aligned to strike this area. Second, bells will sometimes include a raised crown, allowing for a louder bell tone.
Clapper
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The clapper is the part of the handbell that will strike the inside of the bell when played. The clapper usually consists of a shaft connected to the block, with a clapper head on the far end. This clapper head may be made of a variety of materials and coverings, depending on the desired sonic characteristics of the handbell. For example, a clapper with a felt covering will produce more muted, warm tones.
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Block
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The block is inside of the bell, fastened to the crown of the bell. It consists of an axle, upon which the clapper shaft is mounted, the restraining spring and stop nuts. These nuts can be tightened or loosened, and will determine the distance from the clapper head to the crown of the bell.
Handle
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The handle of the handbell typically consists of a strap made of rubber, leather or synthetic polymers. The strap is approximately half an inch in width, and forms a look pinched at one end, connected to the main body of the handbell. Past the handle and just inside the bell you'll find the block. This will typically be marked to show where the clapper will strike the bell.
Spring
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The spring, or restraining spring, is used to return the clapper to its resting position while the handbell is not being played. Note that the majority of handbells include a clapper that is fixed on a two-way pivot point. This pivot point, along with the spring, ensures that the handbell can be played with as much precision as the player would like.
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