Interested in joining Bay Bells?

Bay Bells invites the participation of musicians who want to ring in an advanced community handbell ensemble committed to quality performance as well as outreach and education to the surrounding community. We are an auditioned group and accept new members as spaces become available. We also have a workshop program for less experienced ringers who want to grow their ringing skills before becoming full members of Bay Bells. Bay Bells rehearses at Grace Lutheran Church in Palo Alto from 6:30 to 9:30pm on Tuesday evenings. To visit a Bay Bells rehearsal, to be notified in advanced of the next Open Rehearsal, or for other information about membership, please contact our director William Kyle.

Auditions

In an effort to seek excellence and to form the consummate handbell organization, Bay Bells will conduct auditions once every year.

Qualifications

Qualified ringers should possess the following skills and traits:

• Ring at or above the current level of the ensemble
• Possess a sense of commitment to the ensemble
• Share similar values and goals as other members of the ensemble

Process

The audition process is based on five separate areas:

1. Handbell Notation Familiarity (10%): Demonstrate different techniques and other notations.
2. Rhythm & Multiple Bell Exercises (15%): Demonstrate ability to handle challenging rhythms and meters, as well as quick and frequent changes in accidentals.
3. Sight-Reading Pieces (30%): Group sight-reading of 3 to 4 pieces. Ringers change positions 2 to 3 times.
4. Form (15%): Ringing motion and use of techniques.
5. Commitment (30%): Interview with the Director to discuss general commitment expectations, specific requirements for the upcoming year and other outside group involvement.

The auditions are conducted by the director and at least one experienced handbell director from outside the group. Each section is scored and decisions are based on those scores. In addition, the audition may be videotaped for review following the session.

Each year, every position in Bay Bells is open, which means returning members must re-audition every year. This ensures the best group of ringers possible for the upcoming season.

Exceptions

Any person unable to attend the scheduled audition date may request a special session with the director for which they may be asked to prepare a solo piece in place of sight-reading pieces. Ringers are encouraged to attend the scheduled audition, as group dynamics play an extremely important part of the audition process.

Rehearsals held at:
Grace Lutheran Church
3149 Waverley Street
Palo Alto, CA 94306