William Griffin (2008) has been involved at every level of Handbell Musicians of America as a dedicated volunteer, officer, and leader. He has also contributed to the overall art of handbell/handchime ringing through international service and leadership, as well as through the creation of great works of handbell/handchime literature.
Among the positions he has held within the Guild are Area Chair (Area V), AGEHR National President and all elected offices of the Handbell Industry Council. In addition, he responded to a critical call for service as Interim Executive Director, a challenge he accepted and executed amidst the most trying of circumstances. Bill’s leadership at this time was the steady hand needed by the staff, Areas and membership.
He established successful handbell programs at two high schools and one university. In 1991 he founded the community group, Symphonic Handbells of Columbus which he conducted until 2003. These choirs were internationally recognized for their recordings with various publishing companies and worldwide concert performances.
He also Chaired Distinctly Bronze, served an eight year term as Executive Director for the International Handbell Committee and Chaired two International Symposium hosted by AGEHR (1996 & 2008). This is in addition to serving as clinician and conductor for Area and National festivals and the International Symposium.
Bill’s service to the art of handbell/handchime ringing is also vast. He has arranged many advanced classical works for handbells. He has served as music editor for AGEHR Publishing and is currently handbell editor for Beckenhorst Publishing.
William Griffin has done as much as any individual in making Handbell Musicians of America and handbell/handchime ringing what they are today. His vital contributions are evident in nearly every facet of our Guild and our art form.