Music on the Hill handbell ensembles perform spring classics and new works in a celebratory program of music for handbells, to be held on Friday, May 12, at 7:30 p.m.
The ringers will premiere two original works by Music on the Hill's artistic directors: "Sam Gangee Suite," by David H. Connell, inspired by J.R.R. Tolkein's beloved character; and "I Lift My Lamp," by Ellen Dickinson, based on the Emma Lazarus poem found on the Statue of Liberty. Both will conduct.
Other selections include an arrangement from Gershwin's Three Preludes; a bucolic “Lore of the Loom” dance performed with Irish tin whistle; and joyful tintinnabulations by Kevin McChesney and Cathy Moklebust, prolific composers for handbells.
The concert takes place at Parish Hall at the WEPCO church complex, 48 New Canaan Road, Wilton. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door; students and children are free. Order online at musiconthehillCT.org or reserve attickets@musiconthehillCT.org or (203) 529-3133.
Anyone with basic music reading skills (and some physical dexterity) is a candidate to play handbells. Bell ringing is at once accessible -- only two notes; a beautiful tone from the get-go -- and challenging. If you're interested in applying your music skills to a new instrument or would like an ensemble experience, or if you just want to have fun giving bells a try, the half-day Handbell Workshop is for you! Student musicians welcome.
The workshop takes place on Saturday, October 7, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the WEPCO church complex in Wilton. It will include separate tracks -- for beginning and experienced ringers -- led by the artistic directors, each with decades’ experience teaching handbells. Cost: $40 (includes lunch). Advance registration required to ellen@musiconthehillct.org.