Bellringing features in so many phrases and idioms we use in everyday speech – expressions such as ‘with bells on’, ‘has a ring to it’, ‘dead ringer’ to name just a few.
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These may be very familiar sayings, but what you may not know, is that bellringing as a musical genre exists even today.
There are actually musical groups of bellringers all around the world participating in a musical style that has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent years, particularly in the US and Asia.
It could be said that handbell ringing is unique in that it is classed as ‘one’ instrument yet requires a team of players. There are bellringing groups in every state. Locally, there are two groups - Sublime Chimes in Port Macquarie, and Bells of Haven in the Camden Haven.
Both groups are members of the Handbell Society of Australasia who this year, are holding their biennial handbell and chime festival at The Francis Retreat in Bonny Hills.
Sublime Chimes, are hosting the event, which will attract handbell ringers from all over Australia, New Zealand and beyond - including the renowned British-born handbell composer, Michael Coe, who is visiting from his home in France.
The festival, called Bells by the Beach, will include workshops for experienced bellringers. This year’s festival, however, is introducing something new — the opportunity for locals, who have no experience in playing handbells, to get involved in festival activities.
School-based music teachers are being invited to pop in during the festival to discover how a whole class making music on one instrument can be a wonderful team-building exercise where students quickly gain skills that are shown to improve academic achievement.
The Handbell Society has a students’ music education program in which experienced educators will visit the school to hold a workshop with teachers, followed by educational workshops with students.
Teachers can get in touch with the festival convenor for more information. Members of the local community can attend a 2-session workshop for beginners.
The bellementary day pass entitles attendance at two Introduction to Handbell and Chime Ringing workshops with refreshments included.
The day pass costs $50 — for more information “go like the clappers” to the festival website www.hsafestival.org.au The Bells by the Beach Festival is on from September 29 until October 3 and and includes a concert – with all the bells and whistles – on Sunday afternoon, October 1.
Guest performers include Port Macquarie’s Sing Australia Choir and a Brass Ensemble of the Municipal Band. Tickets are $10, so reserve your tickets now by visiting www.hsafestival.org.au or call Gail on 0408 852 048.
