The Sonoran Bells
Donna Langwig
Sonoran Bells, Tucson’s premier community handbell ensemble, will open their 2016 holiday season on December 11 with a concert at Vista de la Montaña Methodist Church, 3001 E. Miravista Lane in Catalina. Under the direction of Shannon Casey, the program will feature classic carols and contemporary arrangements of tunes such as It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year and Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas is You.
Sonoran Bells, established in 1999, is a community handbell ensemble based in Tucson. It is comprised of experienced handbell ringers chosen by audition. Members include musicians, teachers, engineers, accountants and other professionals. The group performs on a five-octave set of Malmark handbells, a five-octave set of Malmark Choirchimes, a three-octave set of Whitechapel handbells and a three-octave set of Petit-Fritsen handbells.
Sonoran Bells has quickly established itself for the ensemble’s musical excellence. In addition the group is very proud of its educational focus, which consists of hosting festivals and workshops throughout the year thus providing a resource for other local handbell and chime ensembles. A variety of classes is offered to directors and ringers who are interested in building their ringing skills.
Please come and bring your friends and family on December 11 at 3:00 p.m. to enjoy this outstanding ensemble. Handbell music is guaranteed to get you in the spirit of Christmas. The concert is free and all are welcome. Donations are appreciated. For more information, visit www.sonoranbells.org or www.vistaumc.org.