Session 1 (12:00-1:15) Classes

• Class 1: Technique Tune-up, taught by Evie Sessions & friends. Not your average techniques class. Have you seen different ways to tower swing, mart, echo, etc? What’s the latest method? Do you have a specific question on HOW? Here’s the chance to ask and get expert advice! Have you seen finger damping? Come to this session and give it a try. This will include the most common techniques and the most common technique problems. We will also include malleting and “sticking”. We will have multiple clinicians available to help everyone!

• Class 2: Fascinating Rhythms for Beginners (Part 1 of 3: Rep Reading for Tins & Emerging Coppers (Level 2+)), taught by Susan Capestro.  As handbell ringers, we are melody percussionists. And of course, we’re all rhythm aficionados… right?? But what if there was a fail-safe language for practicing rhythm – flexible, creative, and actually fun? What if it only used 5 simple one-syllable words? And what if this system had worked for millions of people for thousands of years? Sounds too good to be true?  It isn’t. Come have some fun with it! Bring your music, your questions, and your best “beginner’s mind.” (Warning: Side effects may include improved rhythm, spontaneous laughter, and the sudden ability to explain syncopation at coffee hour.) We will use musical examples from the “WITH Your marks.. Get Set… GO!” Reading session so you can apply this method right from the start.

• Class 3: If you’re happy and you know it- ring some bells!, taught by Diane Burke & Karen Leonard. Let’s kick off the workshop by reading through pieces that will make you smile! These level 3-4 selections contain the words “joy’. “joyful”, or “happy” in their titles, and we’ll find some teachable moments along the way. No pressure- just fun, so bring your smiles and happiness to the table! 😊😊

• Class 7: Technique Tune-up, taught by Evie Sessions & friends. Not your average techniques class. Have you seen different ways to tower swing, mart, echo, etc? What’s the latest method? Do you have a specific question on HOW? Here’s the chance to ask and get expert advice! Have you seen finger damping? Come to this session and give it a try. This will include the most common techniques and the most common technique problems. We will also include malleting and “sticking”. We will have multiple clinicians available to help everyone!

• Class 8: Take it up a Notch, taught by Jenn Stack. This session is for directors who seek to understand how to raise the bar for their choirs. Participants will be led through reflective and cooperative exercises to evaluate the needs of their choir and the opportunities they have to select new music for their group. We discuss intentional selection of repertoire that will help the choir to advance in any number of ways-their understanding of rhythm, specific techniques, a new musical style. The instructor will dive into some rehearsal strategies, and ways to leverage otherwise wasted moments within the rehearsal in order to teach and reinforce techniques. By using these strategies throughout the year, any group is capable of growing to a new level.

• Class 9: WITH your marks.. get set…GO! (Part 3 of 3: Rep Reading for Tins & Emerging Coppers (Level 2+)), taught by Diane Burke, Susan Capestro, & Karen Leonard. You’ve honed your score study, marking and technique skills in previous classes, so let’s put them to good use! You’ll have a chance to ring through the pieces you’ve been working on in a friendly, supportive environment that promises success. You’ll be amazed at what you can do! Selections will be chosen from the following collections: Let it Shine and Christmas Near and Far. To be the most prepared for this repertoire read, please consider taking Part 1 of 3 and 2 of 3 Rep Reading for Tins & Emerging Coppers (Level 2+).