The MPC Bell Choirs
The Handbell Choirs at MPC are an exciting part of our music ministry. Handbell choirs provide a unique kind of musical experience and foster a real sense of teamwork and fellowship. Bells are easy to ring and with our various choirs here at MPC, there is a spot for anyone who wishes to join, regardless of musical experience. The basics of bell-ringing are easily learned, and the resulting music-making is highly rewarding.
MPC Chancel Chimes
The Chancel Chimes ring from September through June, usually once a month at the Sunday morning service, and for selected special services throughout the liturgical year. The repertoire for the Chancel Chimes is drawn from a variety of sources, and includes arrangements of hymns, original pieces, and more - sometimes including organ, other instruments or the Chancel and/or Children’s Choirs. This choir is for the ringer with some experience – or at least some musical training. The level of difficulty is generally of an intermediate grade, but with some more challenging music chosen to keep the choir growing musically. Rehearsals are lively and fun, and fellowship is very important, but we work hard, too!
The Bell Choir has participated in the Central Jersey Handbell Festival at Rider University and this past June, participated with three other area choirs for a mini-festival at Ewing High School, Ewing, New Jersey. The Chancel Chimes has been involved in a variety of AGEHR activities, with opportunities for special performances and workshops available.
Chancel Chimes rehearsals are held on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 - 9:00 pm in the sanctuary. An additional rehearsal is held the morning when the Chancel Chimes is scheduled to play. The Chancel Chimes usually ring on the 3rd Sunday of the month at the 10:30 am worhip service.
Rehearsals for the 2009-2010 year begin September 9th. Please contact Carol Houghton for more information or to answer any questions you may have.
MPC Children's Chimes
The Children’s Chimes is the bell choir for younger members of MPC. Youth in grades 4-8 are invited to join. The Children’s Chimes provides a fun, relaxed atmosphere where we learn the techniques of ringing bells, note-reading, and the unique teamwork that membership in a bell choir requires. No previous experience is necessary, and the ability to read music is not required. Just come and join the fun!
Children’s Chimes rehearsals are held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 – 7:25 pm in the sanctuary. The choir rings in our Sunday morning worship service 4-5 times a year, and on Christmas Eve. Regular attendance and a desire to learn are the only audition requirements! Please contact Carol Houghton for more information or to answer any questions you may have.
Please read more on our web site about the Director of the Handbell Choirs at MPC, Carol Houghton.
One can contact Carol Houghton either by email or calling the MPC office at 215-295-4191.
The Handbell Choirs at MPC are proud to be a member of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers. Why don't you click on the link and see what an exciting organization it is?