The following Handbell Musicians of America members have indicated that they are available to serve as clinicians at handbell or handchime events. The information below was submitted by the handbell clinicians themselves and is listed in alphabetical order by the clinician’s last name.
Please note that The Guild does not endorse or recommend any specific handbell clinicians, and this list is provided only for your reference in contacting potential clinicians for your event.
If you would like to add your information to the above list, please see the requirements below.
Bill Alexander
Hermantown, MN
218-340-4100
[email protected]
Bill Alexander has served as director of handbells at First United Methodist Church in Duluth for 29 years, directing five choirs, including the touring ensemble Strikepoint. Bill is also a former officer of The Guild and an internationally known handbell clinician and conductor with a reputation for musicality and fun.
Hermantown, MN
218-340-4100
[email protected]
Bill Alexander has served as director of handbells at First United Methodist Church in Duluth for 29 years, directing five choirs, including the touring ensemble Strikepoint. Bill is also a former officer of The Guild and an internationally known handbell clinician and conductor with a reputation for musicality and fun.
Christine Allison
Canton, OH
330-456-3186
Christine has directed handbells for more than 30 years and have been the guest clinician at bell festivals, as well as a jurisdictional conference of FUMMWA (Fellowship of United Methodists in Music Worship and Arts).
Canton, OH
330-456-3186
Christine has directed handbells for more than 30 years and have been the guest clinician at bell festivals, as well as a jurisdictional conference of FUMMWA (Fellowship of United Methodists in Music Worship and Arts).
Christine D. Anderson
Frazier Park, CA
661-245-1899
[email protected]
Qualified to conduct workshops for just about any handbell subject, including handbell maintenance, solo, ensemble, treble/multiple bell techniques, Christine has been conducting massed ring festivals and conferences for over 27 years.
Frazier Park, CA
661-245-1899
[email protected]
Qualified to conduct workshops for just about any handbell subject, including handbell maintenance, solo, ensemble, treble/multiple bell techniques, Christine has been conducting massed ring festivals and conferences for over 27 years.
Mark Arnold
Fort Worth, TX
817-905-2162
[email protected]
A handbell musician for almost 40 years, Mark currently serves as Director of Handbell Ministries at First Baptist Church of Keller, Texas, where he directs six handbell choirs. He is an active composer and arranger with several published works for handbells, and serves as on the HMA Area 9 board.
Fort Worth, TX
817-905-2162
[email protected]
A handbell musician for almost 40 years, Mark currently serves as Director of Handbell Ministries at First Baptist Church of Keller, Texas, where he directs six handbell choirs. He is an active composer and arranger with several published works for handbells, and serves as on the HMA Area 9 board.
Greig Ashurst
Lafayette, LA
337-534-0170
[email protected]
For more than thirty years, Greig Ashurst has developed an impressive conducting and teaching career in many facets of music, technology, and educational philosophy across America. From professional orchestras to local school bands and choirs, Mr. Ashurst’s breadth of repertoire and experience is unparalleled. A native of Lafayette, LA, he has served as a music educator in public and private schools and universities in Louisiana, North Carolina, and Texas and has been selected “teacher of the year” three times during his career. Additionally, he has worked as a church musician for nearly 35 years directing handbell, choral, and instrumental ensembles. He has been conducting, teaching, and performing at local, national, and international handbell events for all of his adult life. Mr. Ashurst holds a MM degree in instrumental conducting from the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University and a BME degree from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette.
Lafayette, LA
337-534-0170
[email protected]
For more than thirty years, Greig Ashurst has developed an impressive conducting and teaching career in many facets of music, technology, and educational philosophy across America. From professional orchestras to local school bands and choirs, Mr. Ashurst’s breadth of repertoire and experience is unparalleled. A native of Lafayette, LA, he has served as a music educator in public and private schools and universities in Louisiana, North Carolina, and Texas and has been selected “teacher of the year” three times during his career. Additionally, he has worked as a church musician for nearly 35 years directing handbell, choral, and instrumental ensembles. He has been conducting, teaching, and performing at local, national, and international handbell events for all of his adult life. Mr. Ashurst holds a MM degree in instrumental conducting from the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University and a BME degree from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette.
Brenda Austin
Eaton Rapids, MI
517-862-3767
[email protected]
Brenda is a dynamic and energetic conductor, clinician, and composer. She is the Artistic Director for the Detroit Handbell Ensemble. In 2019, she begins as Handbell Editor for Hope Publishing. Brenda studied Vocal Performance at Western Michigan University and has an MM in Choral Conducting from UMKC.
Eaton Rapids, MI
517-862-3767
[email protected]
Brenda is a dynamic and energetic conductor, clinician, and composer. She is the Artistic Director for the Detroit Handbell Ensemble. In 2019, she begins as Handbell Editor for Hope Publishing. Brenda studied Vocal Performance at Western Michigan University and has an MM in Choral Conducting from UMKC.
Ron Bellamy
Lancaster, PA
717-615-0944
[email protected]
Specializing in solo/ensemble ringing, Ron has also taught classes in many full-choir topics. He rings in the Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble, and has been a clinician for The Guild, Solo/Ensemble Extravaganza, and Handbell Exploration. He presently directs seven handbell choirs, and has been a massed ring conductor for the Ephrata Area, Somerset, and Nittany Valley Handbell Festivals.
Lancaster, PA
717-615-0944
[email protected]
Specializing in solo/ensemble ringing, Ron has also taught classes in many full-choir topics. He rings in the Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble, and has been a clinician for The Guild, Solo/Ensemble Extravaganza, and Handbell Exploration. He presently directs seven handbell choirs, and has been a massed ring conductor for the Ephrata Area, Somerset, and Nittany Valley Handbell Festivals.
Douglas J. Benton
Gold Canyon, AZ (Phoenix area)
480-288-9722
[email protected]
Doug Benton has achieved a national reputation for excellence as Clinician and Massed Conductor. He began working with handbells in 1973 and brings great energy and a wealth of experience in all facets of music to the podium and classroom. His primary stated goal is to “have fun–creating music!”
Gold Canyon, AZ (Phoenix area)
480-288-9722
[email protected]
Doug Benton has achieved a national reputation for excellence as Clinician and Massed Conductor. He began working with handbells in 1973 and brings great energy and a wealth of experience in all facets of music to the podium and classroom. His primary stated goal is to “have fun–creating music!”
Karen Buckwalter
Hanover, PA
A handbell ringer since 1966, Karen is an internationally known composer and festival conductor/clinician. She has been an active handbell conductor in full time music ministry since 1977 and has been a festival conductor/clinician/composer since 1982. Over the years, she has been a Massed Conductor for Area 1, Area 2 and Area 3. She has also been a conductor/clinician at events such as the Methodist Conference at Lake Junaluska, the Capitol Area Festival, the Mid-Carolinas Festival, the 12th Night Festival in Las Vegas and the 2012 West Midlands Festival in Herefordshire, England. Known for her works such as “Soliloquy for Bells” and “In the Bleak Midwinter”, she now has 70 handbell/choral compositions in print. Her passion is advancing musicality in all levels of ringing and she is especially known for her clear and concise conducting style.
Hanover, PA
A handbell ringer since 1966, Karen is an internationally known composer and festival conductor/clinician. She has been an active handbell conductor in full time music ministry since 1977 and has been a festival conductor/clinician/composer since 1982. Over the years, she has been a Massed Conductor for Area 1, Area 2 and Area 3. She has also been a conductor/clinician at events such as the Methodist Conference at Lake Junaluska, the Capitol Area Festival, the Mid-Carolinas Festival, the 12th Night Festival in Las Vegas and the 2012 West Midlands Festival in Herefordshire, England. Known for her works such as “Soliloquy for Bells” and “In the Bleak Midwinter”, she now has 70 handbell/choral compositions in print. Her passion is advancing musicality in all levels of ringing and she is especially known for her clear and concise conducting style.
Nancy Cappel
Annandale, VA
703-978-3500 x32
[email protected]
Nancy has a BS/MA in Music, taught elementary & middle school music & handbells for 20 years; Director of Music at St. Matthew’s for 36 years with nine bell choirs; Yearly tours (27) with youth choirs; Teaches workshops & directs festivals locally and nationally for Handbell Musicians of America & denominational music conferences; Writes handbell curriculum for beginning children.
Annandale, VA
703-978-3500 x32
[email protected]
Nancy has a BS/MA in Music, taught elementary & middle school music & handbells for 20 years; Director of Music at St. Matthew’s for 36 years with nine bell choirs; Yearly tours (27) with youth choirs; Teaches workshops & directs festivals locally and nationally for Handbell Musicians of America & denominational music conferences; Writes handbell curriculum for beginning children.
Keith Chandler
Atlanta, GA
404-402-0183
[email protected]
Keith serves as a consultant with the Georgia Baptist Convention in the area of Handbells. He has conducted festivals and clinics in Georgia and surrounding states. He holds an MCM from Southwester Baptist Theological Seminar and Bachelors of Church Music from Shorter College in Rome, GA. He would love to help you with your event.
Atlanta, GA
404-402-0183
[email protected]
Keith serves as a consultant with the Georgia Baptist Convention in the area of Handbells. He has conducted festivals and clinics in Georgia and surrounding states. He holds an MCM from Southwester Baptist Theological Seminar and Bachelors of Church Music from Shorter College in Rome, GA. He would love to help you with your event.
Brian Childers
Mount Holly, NC
704-460-4623
[email protected]
Extensive experience conducting handbell and handchime choirs from children to senior adults. Currently conducts ten handbell, choral, and instrumental ensembles. Mr. Childers is an accomplished conductor, pianist, and composer. He has earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in music performance and church music from Appalachian State University and Gardner Webb University.
Mount Holly, NC
704-460-4623
[email protected]
Extensive experience conducting handbell and handchime choirs from children to senior adults. Currently conducts ten handbell, choral, and instrumental ensembles. Mr. Childers is an accomplished conductor, pianist, and composer. He has earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in music performance and church music from Appalachian State University and Gardner Webb University.
Andrew Duncan
Knoxville, TN
865-804-4721
[email protected]
Andrew Duncan serves the Area VI Board as Membership Chair and has taught classes for Area 6 events in Chattanooga, Birmingham, and Huntsville. He received his masters degrees in Choral Conducting and Piano Performance from the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music, and has studied with conductors such as William Payn, Dale Warland, and Charles Bruffy. Andrew is an active pianist and handbell ringer as well as the found of Ring-Press, a website that offers downloadable handbell music.
Knoxville, TN
865-804-4721
[email protected]
Andrew Duncan serves the Area VI Board as Membership Chair and has taught classes for Area 6 events in Chattanooga, Birmingham, and Huntsville. He received his masters degrees in Choral Conducting and Piano Performance from the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music, and has studied with conductors such as William Payn, Dale Warland, and Charles Bruffy. Andrew is an active pianist and handbell ringer as well as the found of Ring-Press, a website that offers downloadable handbell music.
Nick Hanson
Falls Church, VA
949-278-8560
[email protected]
Nick is the handbell director at the Potomac School in McLean, Virginia; has served as faculty, clinician, and conductor nationally and internationally; is a published composer; and is a member of Virginia Bronze. He has a BA from Concordia University, Irvine, CA, as a music major with concentration in handbells.
Falls Church, VA
949-278-8560
[email protected]
Nick is the handbell director at the Potomac School in McLean, Virginia; has served as faculty, clinician, and conductor nationally and internationally; is a published composer; and is a member of Virginia Bronze. He has a BA from Concordia University, Irvine, CA, as a music major with concentration in handbells.
Michael Helman
Cape Coral, FL
239-738-6072 (cell), 239-542-2858 (church)
[email protected]
[email protected]
Michael Helman is nationally known as a composer of handbell, organ, and choral music and is in demand as a handbell festival conductor/clinician. For a listing of his accomplishments, compositions, and a short biography, please check out his website, michaelhelman.net. Michael is currently Director of Music/Organist at Faith Presbyterian in Cape Coral, Florida, where he directs a graded handbell program, a 60-voice choir and a concert series.
Cape Coral, FL
239-738-6072 (cell), 239-542-2858 (church)
[email protected]
[email protected]
Michael Helman is nationally known as a composer of handbell, organ, and choral music and is in demand as a handbell festival conductor/clinician. For a listing of his accomplishments, compositions, and a short biography, please check out his website, michaelhelman.net. Michael is currently Director of Music/Organist at Faith Presbyterian in Cape Coral, Florida, where he directs a graded handbell program, a 60-voice choir and a concert series.
Ellie Hodder
Portland, OR
503-730-9311
[email protected]
Music is the ultimate practice of community — engaging audience, musicians contributing their notes to the whole, and making a masterpiece in the moment. I work with musicians spanning a 90-year age difference. There is no greater joy than to lead within a group and assist every musician to excel.
Portland, OR
503-730-9311
[email protected]
Music is the ultimate practice of community — engaging audience, musicians contributing their notes to the whole, and making a masterpiece in the moment. I work with musicians spanning a 90-year age difference. There is no greater joy than to lead within a group and assist every musician to excel.
Rick Holdsworth
Sarasota, FL
941-321-3454
[email protected]
[email protected]
Founding director of Ring Sarasota, an auditioned handbell ensemble, and Director of Music at Pine Shores Presbyterian Church with an extensive music ministry including adult, youth, and elementary handbell choirs. 30 years experience working with/leading handbell choirs. Positive & energetic leader of workshops, clinics, reading sessions and technique classes.
Sarasota, FL
941-321-3454
[email protected]
[email protected]
Founding director of Ring Sarasota, an auditioned handbell ensemble, and Director of Music at Pine Shores Presbyterian Church with an extensive music ministry including adult, youth, and elementary handbell choirs. 30 years experience working with/leading handbell choirs. Positive & energetic leader of workshops, clinics, reading sessions and technique classes.
Nancy Jessup
Costa Mesa, CA
714-545-3213
[email protected]
Nancy has completed Advanced Conducting classes with William Payn through Handbell Exploration School of Music and AGEHR Master Class. She teaches handbells at Concordia University, Irvine and has taught at numerous events throughout the country. 2004 conducting of mass events include Winnipeg, Canada (April) and Vista, California (June).
Costa Mesa, CA
714-545-3213
[email protected]
Nancy has completed Advanced Conducting classes with William Payn through Handbell Exploration School of Music and AGEHR Master Class. She teaches handbells at Concordia University, Irvine and has taught at numerous events throughout the country. 2004 conducting of mass events include Winnipeg, Canada (April) and Vista, California (June).
Michael Kastner
Broomfield, CO
720-869-7737
[email protected]
Michael has directed many church choirs and has been Artistic Director for three auditioned community handbell ensembles in the Denver, Colorado, area. He has directed handbells for more than 40 years and leads festivals and workshops nation-wide and internationally. Michael is also a composer and arranger as well as a creative solo ringer and co-founder of STEP. Michael has expertise in massed conducting and in leading classes on techniques at workshops, festivals, and in smaller customized coaching sessions.
Broomfield, CO
720-869-7737
[email protected]
Michael has directed many church choirs and has been Artistic Director for three auditioned community handbell ensembles in the Denver, Colorado, area. He has directed handbells for more than 40 years and leads festivals and workshops nation-wide and internationally. Michael is also a composer and arranger as well as a creative solo ringer and co-founder of STEP. Michael has expertise in massed conducting and in leading classes on techniques at workshops, festivals, and in smaller customized coaching sessions.
Donna L. Kinsey
Morgantown, WV
304-296-9710
[email protected]
Donna has been instrumental in developing handbell ringing in both school and church settings for over 30 years. She has a national reputation as a clinician/director for young ringers as well as massed ringing events. She is past member of the Area 5 Board.
Morgantown, WV
304-296-9710
[email protected]
Donna has been instrumental in developing handbell ringing in both school and church settings for over 30 years. She has a national reputation as a clinician/director for young ringers as well as massed ringing events. She is past member of the Area 5 Board.
Linda Krantz
Glendale, CA
818-248-8918(hm), 818-389-4622 (cell)
[email protected]
Available for teaching basics, weaving, multiple bell techniques, solo ringing, traveling 4iH ringing.
Glendale, CA
818-248-8918(hm), 818-389-4622 (cell)
[email protected]
Available for teaching basics, weaving, multiple bell techniques, solo ringing, traveling 4iH ringing.
Jason Krug
Indianapolis, IN
317-748-1763
[email protected]
Jason is a published handbell composer and arranger with almost a decade of ringing experience. He has conducted orchestras, choirs, and handbell ensembles for many years, and is currently Director of Music Ministries and organist at Irvington United Methodist Church.
Indianapolis, IN
317-748-1763
[email protected]
Jason is a published handbell composer and arranger with almost a decade of ringing experience. He has conducted orchestras, choirs, and handbell ensembles for many years, and is currently Director of Music Ministries and organist at Irvington United Methodist Church.
Blanche Marie Lewis
Winter Park, FL
407-435-1490
[email protected]
Blanche Marie Lewis, a Certified Handbell Director, has worked with various church choirs (all ages) and auditioned community handbell ensembles; has served as a handbell clinician/workshop leader in area, state, & national events; and directs handbell choirs at Ascension Lutheran – Casselberry and First United Methodist – Winter Park. www.makingjoyfulmusic.com
Winter Park, FL
407-435-1490
[email protected]
Blanche Marie Lewis, a Certified Handbell Director, has worked with various church choirs (all ages) and auditioned community handbell ensembles; has served as a handbell clinician/workshop leader in area, state, & national events; and directs handbell choirs at Ascension Lutheran – Casselberry and First United Methodist – Winter Park. www.makingjoyfulmusic.com
Linda Y. Lorgus
West Chester, PA
484-678-5427
[email protected]
Experienced bell director & clinician;Directed groups that performed at Disneyworld, Longwood Gardens, and Busch Gardens; Director of massed choirs in local festivals; Former member of the Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble; current member of Bell Amis Ensemble; Professional accompanist (piano/organ) with a Church Music degree from Westminster College
West Chester, PA
484-678-5427
[email protected]
Experienced bell director & clinician;Directed groups that performed at Disneyworld, Longwood Gardens, and Busch Gardens; Director of massed choirs in local festivals; Former member of the Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble; current member of Bell Amis Ensemble; Professional accompanist (piano/organ) with a Church Music degree from Westminster College
Venita MacGorman
Norman, OK
405-321-6483 (home)
[email protected]
Venita has taught at every Area 9 Festival/Conference from 1988-2002 and directed several young Ringers Festivals. Her areas of expertise are teaching music literacy, teaching the beginning handbell choir, bells/handchimes and other instruments. She is the author of AGEHR’s publication “The Director as Teacher: Working With the Beginning Handbell Choir”.
Norman, OK
405-321-6483 (home)
[email protected]
Venita has taught at every Area 9 Festival/Conference from 1988-2002 and directed several young Ringers Festivals. Her areas of expertise are teaching music literacy, teaching the beginning handbell choir, bells/handchimes and other instruments. She is the author of AGEHR’s publication “The Director as Teacher: Working With the Beginning Handbell Choir”.
Martha Matthews
Holland, MI
(610) 299-9174
[email protected]
Martha Matthews holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Houghton College and a Master of Flute Performance from the University of Idaho. A 34-year veteran of handbells, Martha conducts the longest consistently-running bronze level community handbell ensemble in the country, Kalamazoo Ringers. She founded and conducted Philadelphia Bronze, an advanced auditioned ensemble with the motto “elegant energy.” In demand as a clinician, she specializes in intentional musicianship.
Holland, MI
(610) 299-9174
[email protected]
Martha Matthews holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Houghton College and a Master of Flute Performance from the University of Idaho. A 34-year veteran of handbells, Martha conducts the longest consistently-running bronze level community handbell ensemble in the country, Kalamazoo Ringers. She founded and conducted Philadelphia Bronze, an advanced auditioned ensemble with the motto “elegant energy.” In demand as a clinician, she specializes in intentional musicianship.
Kevin McChesney
Colorado Spring, CO
719-265-9691
[email protected]
Full-time composer/clinician; Over 800 titles in print; Director Pikes Peak Ringers; Experience teaching beginner/advanced, youth/adults, individual choirs/massed ringing; Classes in musicianship, visual presentation, technique, writing, and much more; Available for workshops, festivals, or for tailor-made sessions with individual choirs
Colorado Spring, CO
719-265-9691
[email protected]
Full-time composer/clinician; Over 800 titles in print; Director Pikes Peak Ringers; Experience teaching beginner/advanced, youth/adults, individual choirs/massed ringing; Classes in musicianship, visual presentation, technique, writing, and much more; Available for workshops, festivals, or for tailor-made sessions with individual choirs
Monica S. McGowan
Custer, South Dakota
605-673-2333
[email protected]
Monica McGowan is Artistic and Music Director for Bells of the Hills, Rapid City, SD. Working with beginning to advanced handbell ringers, she is a frequent clinician for the Handbell Musicians of America and has conducted events throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Hong Kong.
Custer, South Dakota
605-673-2333
[email protected]
Monica McGowan is Artistic and Music Director for Bells of the Hills, Rapid City, SD. Working with beginning to advanced handbell ringers, she is a frequent clinician for the Handbell Musicians of America and has conducted events throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Hong Kong.
Paul A. McKlveen
De Pere, WI
920-339-8994
[email protected]
Please check the biography section of Paul’s web site for more information about him, and feel free to call (or write) for more details.
De Pere, WI
920-339-8994
[email protected]
Please check the biography section of Paul’s web site for more information about him, and feel free to call (or write) for more details.
Barbara Meinke
Lake Elsinore, CA
951-674-7557
[email protected]
Barbara has 30 years of handbell experience, including conducting massed ringing and teaching festival classes. She holds a BA in Music from CSU Fullerton and has performed with Sonos Handbell Ensemble, Timbré Ensemble, and Distinctly Bronze. She brings enthusiasm, energy, high expectations, and superb musicianship to the classroom and podium.
Lake Elsinore, CA
951-674-7557
[email protected]
Barbara has 30 years of handbell experience, including conducting massed ringing and teaching festival classes. She holds a BA in Music from CSU Fullerton and has performed with Sonos Handbell Ensemble, Timbré Ensemble, and Distinctly Bronze. She brings enthusiasm, energy, high expectations, and superb musicianship to the classroom and podium.
Rob Meyer
Ann Arbor, MI
248-962-5475
[email protected]
Ringing experience with Detroit Handbell Ensemble, Classical Bells, Capital City Ringers (Associate Conductor), Bay View Week of Handbells; Handbell Musicians of America Master Series in Conducting participant with Dr. William Payn; Past Area 5 Communications Chair; Clinician/Workshop Presenter, Festival Director extensively in southeast Michigan and throughout Area 5.
Ann Arbor, MI
248-962-5475
[email protected]
Ringing experience with Detroit Handbell Ensemble, Classical Bells, Capital City Ringers (Associate Conductor), Bay View Week of Handbells; Handbell Musicians of America Master Series in Conducting participant with Dr. William Payn; Past Area 5 Communications Chair; Clinician/Workshop Presenter, Festival Director extensively in southeast Michigan and throughout Area 5.
Joyce Miller
Omaha, NE
402-333-0715
[email protected]
Joyce is currently directing nine handbell choirs in Omaha and Fremont, NE. She is the past Area 8 Chair. She was the Chair of the Hartford, Conn. Director’s Seminar. At past conferences, she has done several reading sessions covering different levels of music.
Omaha, NE
402-333-0715
[email protected]
Joyce is currently directing nine handbell choirs in Omaha and Fremont, NE. She is the past Area 8 Chair. She was the Chair of the Hartford, Conn. Director’s Seminar. At past conferences, she has done several reading sessions covering different levels of music.
Cathy Moklebust
Eagle Grove, IA
515-851-0296
[email protected]
As one of today’s most popular handbell composers, Cathy Moklebust has developed and directed handbell music programs since 1983, and has played bells since childhood. She is an active percussionist, and has performed as principal or section percussionist with various professional and community bands, orchestras, small ensembles, and combos throughout the upper Midwest. Since 1989, Cathy has worked in the music retail and publishing industry, and currently operates a music editing and engraving service with her husband. She earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees in music at South Dakota State University, in her hometown of Brookings, SD. Ms. Moklebust and her family reside in rural Eagle Grove, Iowa, on her husband’s 1895 family farm.
Eagle Grove, IA
515-851-0296
[email protected]
As one of today’s most popular handbell composers, Cathy Moklebust has developed and directed handbell music programs since 1983, and has played bells since childhood. She is an active percussionist, and has performed as principal or section percussionist with various professional and community bands, orchestras, small ensembles, and combos throughout the upper Midwest. Since 1989, Cathy has worked in the music retail and publishing industry, and currently operates a music editing and engraving service with her husband. She earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees in music at South Dakota State University, in her hometown of Brookings, SD. Ms. Moklebust and her family reside in rural Eagle Grove, Iowa, on her husband’s 1895 family farm.
Susan T. Nelson
[email protected], [email protected]
M.M. in Music Technology and Composition, University of Valley Forge; B.A., Music Theory and Composition, Rutgers University; Published composer since 1991 of over 200 works; Director of Music at churches since 1974, handbell director since 1989; An experienced clinician, Susan has taught classes ranging from basic technique to composition at festival conferences; Available for large or small events; Can design/teach classes to fit your needs.
[email protected], [email protected]
M.M. in Music Technology and Composition, University of Valley Forge; B.A., Music Theory and Composition, Rutgers University; Published composer since 1991 of over 200 works; Director of Music at churches since 1974, handbell director since 1989; An experienced clinician, Susan has taught classes ranging from basic technique to composition at festival conferences; Available for large or small events; Can design/teach classes to fit your needs.
Carol Roman
Goshen, NY
845-294-9465
[email protected]
A ringer since 1967; director of 3 groups in Warwick, NY since 1985; Taught classes at local, Area 2 and national events; Directed local festival on Long Island and TINS division at Hudson Valley Handbell Festival Conference; Available as director for festivals (and helping organize them), clinician for techniques/ringing workshops, or mentor for individual choirs; Enthusiastic about sharing knowledge of handbells; a clear communicator and experienced teacher.
Goshen, NY
845-294-9465
[email protected]
A ringer since 1967; director of 3 groups in Warwick, NY since 1985; Taught classes at local, Area 2 and national events; Directed local festival on Long Island and TINS division at Hudson Valley Handbell Festival Conference; Available as director for festivals (and helping organize them), clinician for techniques/ringing workshops, or mentor for individual choirs; Enthusiastic about sharing knowledge of handbells; a clear communicator and experienced teacher.
Dr. Paul E. Rosene
Orlando, FL
407-803-7861
[email protected]
Dr. Paul E. Rosene (Professor Emeritus – Illinois State University) has more than sixty-five years experience as a Handbell director and teacher of directors/ringers. He has been the Guest Conductor-Clinician for many Handbell Musicians of America sponsored Festivals and for Handbell Festivals/Workshops/Clinics in several states.
Orlando, FL
407-803-7861
[email protected]
Dr. Paul E. Rosene (Professor Emeritus – Illinois State University) has more than sixty-five years experience as a Handbell director and teacher of directors/ringers. He has been the Guest Conductor-Clinician for many Handbell Musicians of America sponsored Festivals and for Handbell Festivals/Workshops/Clinics in several states.
Ella Saltonstall
Kodiak, AK
907-942-2166
[email protected]
Ella has played handbells for over 30 years and was a founding member of the San Diego Harmony Ringers in 1999. In 2008 she co-founded Maine’s only community handbell choir, Penobsoct Bay Ringers. She co-founded and has directed Isle Bells, Alaska’s only community handbell choir, for seven years. She has coordinated state events, led ringing events in Anchorage, as well as serving on the Area 10 board.
Kodiak, AK
907-942-2166
[email protected]
Ella has played handbells for over 30 years and was a founding member of the San Diego Harmony Ringers in 1999. In 2008 she co-founded Maine’s only community handbell choir, Penobsoct Bay Ringers. She co-founded and has directed Isle Bells, Alaska’s only community handbell choir, for seven years. She has coordinated state events, led ringing events in Anchorage, as well as serving on the Area 10 board.
Michèle Sharik
Southern CA
650-504-0519
[email protected]
Michèle is an internationally-renowned handbell soloist, conductor, and teacher, as well as a member of the professional handbell ensemble Sonos, and Artistic Director of Timbré. She is available to conduct massed ringing and festival choirs. Specializing in Body Mechanics and Ergonomics for handbells, she is available to teach workshops on a variety of topics from beginning ringing to advanced damping.
Southern CA
650-504-0519
[email protected]
Michèle is an internationally-renowned handbell soloist, conductor, and teacher, as well as a member of the professional handbell ensemble Sonos, and Artistic Director of Timbré. She is available to conduct massed ringing and festival choirs. Specializing in Body Mechanics and Ergonomics for handbells, she is available to teach workshops on a variety of topics from beginning ringing to advanced damping.
Charlie W. Steele
Pisgah Forest, NC
828.553.6683
[email protected]
Holds BA and MA degrees in music from Radford University and DMA from University of Kentucky; 35 years experience directing handbell groups of various sizes and ages; Holds Level I certification from Handbell Musicians of America; Particularly interested in working with groups in small churches and with directors on conducting skills.
Pisgah Forest, NC
828.553.6683
[email protected]
Holds BA and MA degrees in music from Radford University and DMA from University of Kentucky; 35 years experience directing handbell groups of various sizes and ages; Holds Level I certification from Handbell Musicians of America; Particularly interested in working with groups in small churches and with directors on conducting skills.
Valerie W. Stephenson
Jacksonville, FL
904-880-1806
[email protected]
Ms. Stephenson is an active handbell composer, arranger, author, conductor and clinician with extensive conducting experience at any ability level. She currently directs the Southside Handbell Ensemble. Valerie resides in Jacksonville, FL and holds a BME from Florida State University and a Master of Music from the University of Wisconsin.
Jacksonville, FL
904-880-1806
[email protected]
Ms. Stephenson is an active handbell composer, arranger, author, conductor and clinician with extensive conducting experience at any ability level. She currently directs the Southside Handbell Ensemble. Valerie resides in Jacksonville, FL and holds a BME from Florida State University and a Master of Music from the University of Wisconsin.
Kimberlee Strepka
E. Longmeadow, MA
Kimberlee Strepka is the author of Handbell Artistry from the Inside Out: Laban Movement Theory for the Handbell Musician, Chicago: GIA Publications (2012). She received a Bachelor of Music in choral music education from the Hartt School of Music, West Harford, CT, and a Master of Music in music education (research) from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She is currently the handbell program director at the Pioneer Valley Christian School in Springfield, Massachusetts, and serves on the Area 1 Board of the Handbell Musicians of America as the Education Liaison. Kim is available for workshops and festivals, with special emphases on artistry through movement language and working with youth.
E. Longmeadow, MA
Kimberlee Strepka is the author of Handbell Artistry from the Inside Out: Laban Movement Theory for the Handbell Musician, Chicago: GIA Publications (2012). She received a Bachelor of Music in choral music education from the Hartt School of Music, West Harford, CT, and a Master of Music in music education (research) from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She is currently the handbell program director at the Pioneer Valley Christian School in Springfield, Massachusetts, and serves on the Area 1 Board of the Handbell Musicians of America as the Education Liaison. Kim is available for workshops and festivals, with special emphases on artistry through movement language and working with youth.
Larry and Carla Sue
Holland, MI 408-499-9915
[email protected]
Larry has experience leading workshops (especially in bass ringing, but in many other aspects of handbells), conducting both massed ringing and ensembles. He is the author of the Bass Ringer’s Notebook, and was the conceptual founder and artistic director of the erstwhile Low Ding Zone, “the World’s First Bass-Only Handbell Ensemble”. He also has been involved in composing for handbells for over twenty years, including original pieces and commissions. Carla has experience leading workshops on British four-in-hand ringing and small ensemble techniques. Together, they enjoy leading workshops as a team, and specialize in performing their music written for eight handbells.
Holland, MI 408-499-9915
[email protected]
Larry has experience leading workshops (especially in bass ringing, but in many other aspects of handbells), conducting both massed ringing and ensembles. He is the author of the Bass Ringer’s Notebook, and was the conceptual founder and artistic director of the erstwhile Low Ding Zone, “the World’s First Bass-Only Handbell Ensemble”. He also has been involved in composing for handbells for over twenty years, including original pieces and commissions. Carla has experience leading workshops on British four-in-hand ringing and small ensemble techniques. Together, they enjoy leading workshops as a team, and specialize in performing their music written for eight handbells.
Ed Tompkins
Indian Trail, NC (suburb of Charlotte)
704-821-8392
[email protected]
Ed has over 30 years experience in conducting church handbell choirs with ringers of all ages. Ed has directed numerous local and area events and has served as handbell clinician for Montreat, Lutheridge, and Massanetta Music Week multiple times. He provides workshops/coaching for individual choirs, working to take each choir to the “next level” of musicianship.
Indian Trail, NC (suburb of Charlotte)
704-821-8392
[email protected]
Ed has over 30 years experience in conducting church handbell choirs with ringers of all ages. Ed has directed numerous local and area events and has served as handbell clinician for Montreat, Lutheridge, and Massanetta Music Week multiple times. He provides workshops/coaching for individual choirs, working to take each choir to the “next level” of musicianship.
Sondra Tucker
Houston, TX
[email protected]
Sondra Tucker is Editor for Alfred Handbell, and teaches composition for the Master Series of HMA. She has lots of experience leading festivals large and small, for advanced ensembles and for beginners. She brings a wealth of knowledge and energy to her leadership and is known for her supportive, positive style which allows ringers to learn while having a great time making music.
Houston, TX
[email protected]
Sondra Tucker is Editor for Alfred Handbell, and teaches composition for the Master Series of HMA. She has lots of experience leading festivals large and small, for advanced ensembles and for beginners. She brings a wealth of knowledge and energy to her leadership and is known for her supportive, positive style which allows ringers to learn while having a great time making music.
Janet Van Valey
Paw Paw, MI
269-655-8081
[email protected]
Jan holds a Masters degree in Choral Conducting, has studied with Don Allured, William Payn, and David Davidson, has published numerous articles, co-authored the Learning to Ring series, and in 1981 founded the Kalamazoo Ringers. She is an experienced clinician and conductor who is known for her passion for the instrument and caring style of teaching.
Paw Paw, MI
269-655-8081
[email protected]
Jan holds a Masters degree in Choral Conducting, has studied with Don Allured, William Payn, and David Davidson, has published numerous articles, co-authored the Learning to Ring series, and in 1981 founded the Kalamazoo Ringers. She is an experienced clinician and conductor who is known for her passion for the instrument and caring style of teaching.
Barb Walsh
Reno, NV
775-750-8119
[email protected]
As a retired public school music teacher and the artistic director for Tintabulations Handbell Ensemble, she enjoys working with all groups and ages; from high energy, creative groups, to those who need the basics to boost their confidence and their skills.
Reno, NV
775-750-8119
[email protected]
As a retired public school music teacher and the artistic director for Tintabulations Handbell Ensemble, she enjoys working with all groups and ages; from high energy, creative groups, to those who need the basics to boost their confidence and their skills.
LeAnna Willmore
Bountiful, UT
801-298-2098
[email protected]
LeAnna has over 25 year experience as a Handbell Director/teacher and 40 years as a Choral teacher, clinician and adjudicator. She is currently the Conductor of the Bells on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. LeAnna resides in Utah and holds a MM in Choral Education from the University of Utah and a BS from Weber State University in Choral Education with piano emphasis.
Bountiful, UT
801-298-2098
[email protected]
LeAnna has over 25 year experience as a Handbell Director/teacher and 40 years as a Choral teacher, clinician and adjudicator. She is currently the Conductor of the Bells on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. LeAnna resides in Utah and holds a MM in Choral Education from the University of Utah and a BS from Weber State University in Choral Education with piano emphasis.
Kipp Willnauer
Gardner, KS (Kansas City Area)
913-884-6935
[email protected]
A music educator and church musician for 30+ yrs; Since 1987 has been teaching handbells/chimes daily in public education; Have participated and/or directed community choirs and summer handbell camps for 15 years; Also involved in Area 8 teaching classes, workshops and filling nominated positions for 10+ years.
Gardner, KS (Kansas City Area)
913-884-6935
[email protected]
A music educator and church musician for 30+ yrs; Since 1987 has been teaching handbells/chimes daily in public education; Have participated and/or directed community choirs and summer handbell camps for 15 years; Also involved in Area 8 teaching classes, workshops and filling nominated positions for 10+ years.
Kathleen Wissinger
McGaheysville, VA (Shenandoah Valley)
540-383-3522
[email protected]
Known for her clear directing style, boundless energy, and positive interactions with ringers of all levels and ages, Kath has taught and directed across the country in local/regional/national/international events. She has taught 4th-\–8th grade handbells (18 years), directed youth groups (30 years), currently leads an adult church group and Mosaic (community group), composes music (all levels), and runs her publishing company “ringTrue.”
McGaheysville, VA (Shenandoah Valley)
540-383-3522
[email protected]
Known for her clear directing style, boundless energy, and positive interactions with ringers of all levels and ages, Kath has taught and directed across the country in local/regional/national/international events. She has taught 4th-\–8th grade handbells (18 years), directed youth groups (30 years), currently leads an adult church group and Mosaic (community group), composes music (all levels), and runs her publishing company “ringTrue.”
Margi Zearley
Tucson, AZ
520-954-3089
[email protected]
[email protected]
Experienced conductor/clinician for festivals and small events; Holds M.M. in Choral Conducting from University of Arizona and B.S. in Music Education from Penn State University, completed Advanced conducting classes with David Davidson, AGEHR Masterclass with William Payn, Founder/Former Director of Sonoran Bells, presented workshops for local, Area handbell community, American Guild of Organists, and AZ Music Educators.
Tucson, AZ
520-954-3089
[email protected]
[email protected]
Experienced conductor/clinician for festivals and small events; Holds M.M. in Choral Conducting from University of Arizona and B.S. in Music Education from Penn State University, completed Advanced conducting classes with David Davidson, AGEHR Masterclass with William Payn, Founder/Former Director of Sonoran Bells, presented workshops for local, Area handbell community, American Guild of Organists, and AZ Music Educators.
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