Handbells have liturgical roots in the earliest days of the church. Bells were used to inform the town when Mass was soon to begin. As the Mass developed and was celebrated in Latin, bells were added to the liturgy to announce to the assembly the presence of the Body and Blood of Christ on the altar. Bells gave pitches for chants and lead processions.
The modern handbell has its roots in the change-ringing tradition. In towns all over Europe, the tower bells would ring to announce the hour, celebrate holidays, and mark sombre occasions. To ring these large tower bells required a great deal of skill and practice. Smaller versions of these large bells were developed to allow for practice without disturbing the entire town.
In this country, there are two major manufacturers of handbells, Malmark and Schulmerich, both based in Pennsylvania. Saint Agnes is proud to ring three octaves of Schulmerich handbells and hand chimes.
Check out this video on how handbells are cast.
The modern handbell has its roots in the change-ringing tradition. In towns all over Europe, the tower bells would ring to announce the hour, celebrate holidays, and mark sombre occasions. To ring these large tower bells required a great deal of skill and practice. Smaller versions of these large bells were developed to allow for practice without disturbing the entire town.
In this country, there are two major manufacturers of handbells, Malmark and Schulmerich, both based in Pennsylvania. Saint Agnes is proud to ring three octaves of Schulmerich handbells and hand chimes.
Check out this video on how handbells are cast.
Interested in learning more about handbell ringing? Come join our handbell choir at rehearsal - Thursday evenings at 7:30 - 9:00 pm.