
Handbell Conference
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates and times of the conference?
The dates for the conference are Saturday October 1st and Sunday October 2nd. Sign-in is from 8 - 9am on Oct 1. The conference runs from 9am - 5:15pm on Saturday and includes a catered lunch. An optional Panel Discussion will take place from 7 - 8:30pm on Saturday evening.
On Sunday October 2, the sessions begin at 1pm and end at 5:15 pm. The conference will close with a catered dinner followed by a concert by the Forté Handbell Quartet from 7 - 8pm. The concert is open to the public.
Download the Conference Schedule for detailed dates and times.
Do I need to have Handbell experience to attend?
Participants are accepted at all levels of experience, however the conference is not designed for beginners. Some prior experience with bells is necessary. Please contact us if you have questions.
What are the age requirements for the conference?
The conference is open to handbell ringers 16 years and older.
What educational programs and breakout sessions will be offered?
As a group, we will start with a Technique Review, followed by Musicianship and Practice Techniques, Weaving, and Visual Presentation. We will play coordination games and have breakout sessions for Bass Bells (C3-B3), Battery Bells (C4-B5), and Treble Bells (C6-C8), as well as Ensemble Basics and Bell Tree Basics. We will try to accommodate individual preferences as class-sizes permit. Download the Conference Schedule for more detailed descriptions of the sessions.
What do I need to bring to the conference?
Participants need to bring a pair of handbell gloves. Green Mountain Falls is known for its natural beauty and cool mountain weather. If you wish to explore, you may want to bring good walking/hiking shoes, sunscreen, warm layers, snacks and water. We advise caution as this is a high elevation environment.
Where is the conference located?
The conference will be held at Church in the Wildwood. We are located in Green Mountain Falls, Colorado via Highway 24 from Colorado Springs. Our address is: 10585 Ute Pass Avenue, Green Mountain Falls, CO 80819. Plenty of free parking is available near the church and around the community.
What amenities does the Church in the Wildwood offer?
Free wi-fi is available inside and outside the church. We have newly remodeled facilities including comfortable seating areas, restrooms, and meeting spaces.
Will meals be available?
Lunch on Saturday and dinner on Sunday is provided. Please let us know of any dietary restrictions on your registration form. If you wish to bring a sack-lunch, there are picnic tables in the parks. The town also offers several restaurants. The Pantry, Mucky Duck, Tye Dye Java, Blue Moose, and Black Bear are all within walking distance. Hours vary.
Is lodging available?
The communities of Green Mountain Falls, Cascade, Chipita Park, and Woodland Park have many short-term rental and hotel options. Search online to secure a reservation.
When can family and friends join me?
On Saturday evening, dinner is on your own. You will also have Sunday morning free to explore the area and/or attend services at Church in the Wildwood. On Sunday evening, the Forté Handbell Quartet will present a concert from 7- 8 pm. Anyone may attend the concert, no tickets are required. A free-will offering will be collected to defer costs.
Who is sponsoring the conference and concert?
This special event is made possible by a generous grant from The Kirkpatrick Family Fund. The Church in the Wildwood Music Ministry is organizing the weekend activities. The Forté Handbell Quartet is providing the educational programs and breakout sessions.
How do I register?
You may Register and Pay Online. If you prefer a paper form, you can pick one up at Church in the Wildwood or download the Registration Form online. Enclose a check for $80 and either drop off your registration at the church, or mail it to: Church in the Wildwood, P.O. Box 26 Green Mountain Falls, CO 80819.
Space is limited. Registrations will be accepted until the conference is full.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Email teresa@wildwooducc.org with any questions.