Hand Bell Choir

In 2005, First UU Church of San Diego acquired a three-octave set of Malmark handbells. At the suggestion of Paula Johnson, congregational member who organized the handbell fundraising campaign, Music Director Ken Herman organized the handbell choir in May, 2005. The 11-member ensemble made its debut in the fall of 2005 and under Ken’s direction continues to add its voice to Sunday morning services and occasional church programs. The church is a member of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers.

MEMBERSHIP
The handbell choir is open to members and friends of the congregation who are interested in performing handbell music. No previous handbell experience is required, but some experience in reading music is helpful.

REHEARSALS
We rehearse weekly in order to develop our ringing skills and learn new repertory. Most members will learn one “desk,” i.e. one single set of 3 to 4 handbells, while more advanced ringers are expected to be able to shift to different ringing positions as required by absences and vacations. We rehearse in the church Meeting House, and choir members are asked to arrive early to set up tables and bells and to assist with the “take-down” following each rehearsal and performance.

For more information: Contact Music Director Ken Herman at the church music office: 619-298-4580, ext. 2.