Which division should I select?

In addition to massed ringing, we have two divisions:  Blue (easier: levels 1-2+) and Gold (more difficult: level 3 & up.)    If you’re not familiar with the handbell music level system, you can find details here:

https://handbellmusicians.org/music-resources/agehr-music-2/notation-guide/

The massed ringing music for this festival ranges from level 1+ to level 3.

Both divisions will prepare nine selections – five massed ring and four division.

If eight selections are too many, you can choose to not play all of the pieces.  Opting out of the massed ring is also an option.  If you don’t play any of the massed ringing pieces, you can attend additional classes.  Note that if you choose to play only some of the selections (either division or massed), we ask that you remain in the room for the entire rehearsal and be respectfully quiet.

There are at least two schools of thought regarding which division to choose:

1. We’ll never play music like division 2 (level/type/selection) normally, so let’s go for it! If you select this option, plan on lots of rehearsal time before Festival so that you’ll be ready to make music with the rest of the division.
2. We want a relaxing festival experience, so let’s choose the easier music! You’ll still want to prepare by rehearsing.

Which school are you in?  Another thought to bear in mind – many musicians think that the best festival experience is when they are comfortable with the music before they arrive and are able to put full attention towards the conductor.

What’s BronzeFest & who should apply?

BronzeFest is a group of up to 30 advanced-level ringers who will present a concert of to six (level 3 and above) selections.   This year, all BronzeFest activities will take place on June 17^th and 18^th ahead of the main festival and will perform as the festival’s opening concert on the evening of the 18^th.  Ringers are then free to enjoy the rest of the festival offerings on Friday and Saturday. 

BronzeFest is a separate registration process with a separate registration fee.  Ensemble members will be selected through an application process, and position assignments will made ahead of time. Musicians are expected to purchase and rehearse the music ahead of the event.  BronzeFest rehearsals will begin on Wednesday afternoon.  Participants will be on their own for dinner on Wednesday afternoon but will be provided lunch on Thursday. 

Successful BronzeFest musicians should have experience with ringing advanced music, are willing to put in extra time before the Festival to prepare the music, should have access to the appropriate equipment for their assigned position, are eager to ring with new neighbors (and possibly in a new position), and look forward to making music with a new conductor.