HANDBELL RINGING
Handbell Ringing at St. Mary's
The St. Mary's handbell ringing group is a lively ensemble who have graced the church community for years. We hold an annual supper concert with readings. This is always popular and tickets sell out fast. We also take part in local concerts and church services, including St Mary’s Carol Service. At Christmas time, the team goes carol-ringing around local pubs. Many of these events raise valuable funds for charities including the Children’s Society, St Luke’s Hospice and St Mary’s church itself.
Our musical scores use a simple colour scheme. A sense of rhythm is useful, along with the ability to count up to six in a bar, but otherwise no other musical skills are required. Age is no barrier and teenagers and octogenarians can happily ring together. Learners start with one bell, progressing to having one in each hand. With practice, experienced ringers can manage as many as four bells at once!
Watch the footage from our latest concert to see how we brighten up services with our wonderful bellringing.
Our handbell ringers are a sociable group and welcome newcomers and anyone who would like to try handbell ringing.For further information about joining the handbell ringers or booking them to play for your event, please contact Jean Pearson.