Everett J. Hilty* (1992) described his introduction to handbells as being “conned into becoming involved…at the University of Colorado in the Neanderthal days of modern handbell ringing.” On faculty for many years, Everett left a legacy in organ and handbells, and the handbell alumni still feel his influence. As a composer, Everett stretched the traditional concept of melody and harmony, writing music that was both rhythmically based and explored the special sonorities of handbells.
