The village of Brockport will come alive with the annual Arts Festival and the enchanting sounds of its very own community hand bell choir, The Heavy Metal Ringers. This harmonious addition to the festival weekend promises to create a magical atmosphere that celebrates the history and creative vibes of Brockport.
Under the guidance of director Elaine Holt, the Heavy Metal Ringers (a division of the Erie Canal Ringers) include passionate individuals from all walks of life, united by their love for music and their commitment to fostering a vibrant community. Their dedication and many hours of practice will culminate in a free concert on Saturday, August 12.
The Brockport Arts Festival offers the perfect platform for the Ringers to showcase their talent. Handling bells from the sweetest treble to the deeper bass, the new ensemble will perform songs from Oklahoma, arrangements of world folk music, a version “Shenandoah” with hand chimes, a mystery piece, and an award-winning composition called “A Festive Rondo.” Percussionists will add pizzazz to the diverse program.
“We are thrilled to host the Heavy Metal Ringers during the Brockport Arts Festival. This performance symbolizes the essence of our village – unity, creativity, and a shared passion for the arts,” said Brenda Tremblay, Music Director of St. Luke’s Church.
The debut performance of the Heavy Metal Ringers will take place on Saturday, August 12, at 4 p.m. at St. Luke’s Church on the corner of Main and State Streets (14 State Street.) There is limited municipal parking, plus free parking on the campus of SUNY Brockport at the college athletic complex with a frequent, free shuttle service for visitors.
For more information about The Erie Canal Ringers, contact Elaine Holt at ejvh144@gmail.com or Brenda Tremblay at brendatremblay@yahoo.com. You’ll also find the group and information on Facebook.
About the Heavy Metal Ringers: This intermediate-level group formed in 2023 and rehearses at St. Luke’s on Tuesday evenings. It’s a division of the Erie Canal Ringers. A beginners’ group, The Great Bells of Fire, is forming this fall and seeks new members. Ringers do not have to read music, but they must be reliable and eager to collaborate. For more information, please contact Elaine Holt.
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