To extend to another octave, the dowel bell tree pole will not work very well so it is time to graduate to a bell tree stand.
Most Bell Tree ringers either string only the bells they need for a piece or they subscribe to Barbara Brocker’s Standard Keyboard Set-up. For the purposes of these lessons, we will follow the standard keyboard set-up unless otherwise noted.
There are several equipment options to choose from and each has strengths and weaknesses. Options range from commercially available stands to DYI. The most important things to think of is having a stand that can support the weight of the bells securely and at a height that is comfortable for you to ring. As a guide, start with the arm closest to the ringer set 1.5-2 inches above the ringer’s head. This will prevent the ringer from bumping into the arm and comfortably ring the lowest bell in the octave.
Overview of some stand options
Often the weight of the bells pulls the handles over the handguard causing the handle to rest on the casting. To prevent this from happening, separators can be used. There is a video available introducing a few of the various solutions to this situation. New ideas are surfacing regularly. If you find something else that works, please share your ideas. Separator video
Standard mallets may be used, and you will need at least that length to reach all the bells comfortably. There are many options that may work for you. The type of mallet may depend on how hard you strike the bells, the acoustics of the space, personal preference, etc. Here is a link to create an upcycled DIY mallet holder video. Here is a document with the building instructions.
The first strand of bells is C6-C7 no accidentals. Hang the C7 handle on the bell tree stand arm closest to you. The C6 casting should point to the left as you face it.
On the back arm, hang the second strand C5-B5 no accidentals. Hang the B5 handle on the arm. The C5 casting pointing to the right when you are facing it from the ringing position.
With a mallet in each hand, start with the right mallet and C7 bell. Ring each bell from C7 to C5 alternating mallets. Starting at C5, ring each bell up to C7.
The following melody exercises will help you practice smooth transitions from one bell tree strand to another.
| This Little Light of Mine |
| Good King Wenceslas |
| Beach Spring – starting note C6 |
| Slane – starting note C6 |
| Foundation – starting note G5 |
| Steal Away – starting note F5 |
| I Love Thee – starting note G5 |
Other resources for two octaves:
Melodies you can play on the two-octave strands C5-C7
Christmas music you can play on C5-C7 – music, Volume 1 compiled by Connie Nicholson
Christmas music you can play on C5-C7 – music, Volume 2 compiled by Connie Nicholson
You ,ay also use the techniques used previously to extend your creative use of two octaves.
Creative Bell Tree Instructional Series, 052620
@2020 Karen Van Wert, [email protected]