Handbells for Beginners
Handbells are a type of musical instrument typically played in a group known as a bell choir. The art of handbell ringing may seem like a daunting task to those not familiar with how its done, but beginners with the ability to read music can successfully learn with a bit of practice and instruction.
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Learning how to play
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Commonly, handbell ringers get their start simply by joining a local bell choir. Once they join, they are provided with instruction on basic techniques. It's often a learn-as-you-go experience.
Where to find handbell choirs
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Handbell choirs are typically found in churches. Occasionally, community run choirs can be found as well, usually consisting of more advanced ringers.
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Joining a handbell choir
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Many bell choirs accept ringers without experience as long as they are able to read music. Some larger churches even have a bell choir specifically designed for beginners.
Handbell choir size
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A typical handbell choir consists of three to five octaves. A three octave choir may have as few as six ringers, while a five octave choir may have as many as sixteen.
Number of bells per ringer
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A beginning handbell ringer will typically be responsible for ringing two natural bells and their corresponding accidentals.
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