Welcome to the Fyfield Handbell Ringers!
About the Bells
Our original 12 handbells which belong to St Nicholas Church, are about 150 years old and are most unusually in the key of E major – most handbell sets would be in the key of C. Some were cast at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry and some at Taylors in Loughborough. A few years ago we had the bells renovated and are gradually adding to them to achieve our aim of having 2 chromatic octaves. We have about 4 bells to go!
About the Ringers
The present handbell ringers were formed some 40 years ago and we still have one original member! We are a very diverse group of 11 women with an age range spanning over 50 years. The one thing that unites us is our passion for handbell ringing! We practise weekly for an hour on a Tuesday evening and fund ourselves by paying £1 a week and receiving donations when we perform. New members are always most welcome.
About the Performances
We perform in the Church on high days and holidays and also at Weddings, Christenings, Fetes, Private Parties and for various Organisations and Homes for the Elderly. We are particularly popular at Christmas!
About the Music
Our music is notated, which means that we play by numbers. So the only 2 things it takes to be a Fyfield Handbell Ringer is the ability to count and the ability to concentrate!
We play a very varied range of music, from classical and international to old sing-a-long favourites. Something to suit everyone’s taste. We can also feature a ‘Have a Go’ interlude for those who might wish to participate.
About the Bookings
If you wish to enquire about a booking, please contact our Secretary, Mrs Pat Turnpenny on 01277 899223. Please bear in mind that we do need quite a bit of space and the sound of the bells does not carry well outside.