Ringing Groups
ChaparralBells
This is the primary training group. Ringers, 5 years old to 12 years old, join this group to establish their ringing experience. Performance recitals are done in conjunction with Bronzeworksä about two to three times a year. Rehearsals are held at Camelback Bible Church, 40th Street and Stanford every Tuesday, from 5:00 to 6:30 PM.
Bronzeworks Towne Choir
This group is the transition from ChaparralBells to Bronzeworksä. Rehearsals are Tuesday nights and performances are with the ChaparralBells, but these ringers are given a more responsibility within the group, thus preparing them for advancement to Bronzeworksä. Ages vary and membership is dependant on ringing ability.
Bronzeworks
This is the performance and touring group comprised of teen ringers, ages 12 to 19. These ringers have advanced from Junior Bronzeworks, or successfully auditioned for acceptance. Bronzeworksä ringers have developed the advanced musical ringing skills required to execute highly complex rhythms and musical arrangements for stage and theater performances. Bronzeworksä members must be relatively flexible with regard to their schedule and be able to travel throughout the United States and internationally when the group is booked for performance or recording engagements. Bronzeworksä rehearses Sundays from 2:00-4:00 PM, and Mondays, 6:30-8:30 PM. There are approximately 10-15 performances and/or recording commitments each year in addition to 2-4 out of town engagements each year. International tours are usually booked in the summer every two years.
Scottsdale Handbell Ensemble
In 1983, Kay Cook realized her dream of forming a community handbell ensemble for adults. Her goal was to provide a vehicle for artistic excellence, as well as personal growth and development through the performing art of handbell ringing. Her 20 years of handbell conducting in a liturgical environment, combined with her philosophy of community outreach, played an important role in creating Desert Bells International and Scottsdal Handbell Ensemble.
Scottsdale Handbell Ensemble is made up of top ringers within the community who have auditioned for entrance into the group. Their repertoire is diverse—traditional to jazz and classical to rock. They demonstrate musical expertise and accomplished stage presence. Qualifications for membership include: 1. the ability to sight-read with ease; 2. a willingness to commit time and effort to rehearsal and concert schedules; 3. the understanding that teamwork and responsibility are synonymous with success. In addition to local performance opportunities, Scottsdale Handbell Ensemble has toured in the United States, Europe, and Australia.
