The Erie Canal Ringers is recruiting for the 2025-2026 season, and all are invited. It is a secular, independent handbell choir that serves Brockport and neighboring towns. Membership is free. There are two divisions: The Heavy Metal Ringers is the more advanced group and requires the ability to read at least one clef of music at the introductory to intermediate level; the Great Bells of Fire is the beginning group and has a recommendation of some familiarity with music. Bell ringing does require reliability and good communication, and these traits are in some ways more important than an extensive music background. It’s a great way to meet some new people and make beautiful music with a giant, group instrument. Plus, ringers lift weights in the form of bells–a novel way to get in shape!
Both divisions need subs, and The Great Bells of Fire needs at least one more permanent ringer, and could take up to three more permanent ringers. Do you play in a church choir? Good news! The Erie Canal Ringers is unlikely to cause conflicts. They hold several concerts a year, but do not play in church services. The Great Bells of Fire (currently playing with six ringers who are called The Red Door Ringers) travels to area nursing homes when they have mastered a simple program for the season. The Heavy Metal Ringers rehearses on Tuesdays, 5:30 to 7 p.m., starting September 16. The Great Bells of Fire (Red Door Ringers) rehearses on Mondays from 6:45 to 8:15 p.m., starting September 22. All rehearsals for this community handbell group are graciously hosted by St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 14 State Street, Brockport.
There is a new division of the Erie Canal Ringers resuming in mid-October with the opportunity for group members to name themselves. It’s a non-performing group with no previous music experience needed. The emphasis is on learning to read music and how to play bells. There will be a limited number of weekly meetings in the fall and in the spring with the day and time to be arranged with those who sign up. If interested, please contact the director and to put a plan together.
For information, contact Elaine Holt (director), 585-364-2046 (Google Voice, follow the directions on your cell phone screen) or email at elvh2012@gmail.com.
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