GSR Vibes
GSR's adult (16+) learning offerings include Vibes I, a non-auditioned group of ringers who are new to music and/or handbells, and Vibes II (Capital Vibes), also non-auditioned, for adults who've rung before who want to improve their skills and grow as musicians.
Vibes I is our group for beginners and advanced beginners. You will learn safe ringing techniques, how to read handbell markings, how to change bells (ring accidentals) with confidence, multiple techniques, and how to ring accurately even when the meter changes. Vibes I rings Level 1 through Level 2+ music. A great opportunity to learn and to ring for fun!
Vibes II (Capital Vibes) is open to those who already play. Ringers must be able to read Level 2 handbell music and should have some skills in ringing strokes, damping, ringing accidentals, rhythms, and meter changes. We will help you freshen up rusty skills, learn new skills, and even get ready to audition for GSR, all while having fun! Capital Vibes rings Level 2+ through Level 4 music.
All ringers should make every effort to attend all sessions.
Spring 2024 Details
Vibes I
Dates: Mondays, March 18-May 7
Time: 6:30-8:00 pm
Capital Vibes (Vibes II)
Dates: Tuesdays, September 19-November 14
Time: 6:30-8:00 pm
Location: GSR Studio, 2 Industrial Park Drive (Bldg 2, Ste 3), Concord, NH
Fee: $80 per person
For more info, contact Joan Fossum: GSRMusicDirector@gmail.com
Click here for Registration Form
Thoughts from Vibes alumni
Becky Boisvert: "Vibes greatly improved my knowledge of ringing techniques--ringing correctly (leading with the handle, not the wrist), marting, ringing 4-in-hand, mart lifts, etc., how to read the music thoroughly. Vibes taught me to be more detailed with my playing and significantly increased my confidence."
Favorite bell memories: Caroling in Maine in the snow; Oktobellfest; Festival/Conference with 500 ringers playing in unison.
Doug Dixon: "My favorite Vibes sessions were learning and practicing weaving and learning to slow the panic down when I was weaving. I really value the chance to learn all the different handbell techniques notations and how to mark your music. If I could tell my Vibes self one thing, I'd say: Be brave! You can learn anything--and never pass up an opportunity to play."
Favorite bell piece: Dorian Dance. I love the driving tempo.
Favorite bell memories: Traveling with bell friends to festivals and conferences. It is such an amazing experience.
Hilary Justice: "Vibes was a fantastic opportunity to learn handbells from the ground up. Joan is a welcoming, patient, and encouraging instructor--really invested in every ringer's growth and success, from wherever they're starting to wherever they want to go. I especially loved learning how to ring four-in-hand and the chance to really focus on the beauty of a smooth ringing stroke."
Favorite bell piece: Wizards in Winter
Favorite bell memories: Caroling in the snow! Gathering with bell friends at workshops & festivals.
Rhonda O'Keefe: "Vibes is a great opportunity for developing and gaining confidence in your abilities, meeting other people who are interested in and love to play handbells, and having fun while learning. I especially value the one-on-one, patient, expert instruction from Joan and the chance to play bells I'm never assigned (bass bells)."
Favorite bell piece: Dorian Dance
Favorite bell memories: So many! Playing the world premiere of Beer Barrel Polka for bells at Oktobellfest '22, playing Christmas carols outdoors next to the ocean in Kittery, ME, playing the national anthem at the Fisher Cats.