Handbell Workshop
Frequently Asked Questions
Have the dates been set for 2024?
Yes! The 2024 Handbell Workshop will be held Saturday October 12 followed by a public Concert by the Forté Handbell Quartet on Sunday October 13. Specific times coming soon.
Download a past Workshop Schedule to see examples of topics covered in the workshop.
Do I need to have Handbell experience to attend?
Participants at all levels of experience are welcome. Please contact us if you have questions about which track is best for your level of ability.
Is there an age requirements for the conference?
The beginning track is open to 5th graders and above. The intermediate and advanced tracks are open to handbell ringers 16 years and older.
Are there opportunities for different levels of ability?
Yes! We welcome ringers of all levels! Choose your track using the descriptions below. Feel free to contact us if you aren't sure which one to sign up for.
Track A (Beginner): Laying the Foundation
How do handbells work? Where do I start if I want to become a ringer? Designed for novice ringers, this track will introduce new handbell musicians to the instrument, beginning with plenty of practice with the most basic actions, then adding other techniques and relevant music-reading skills. By the end of the day, we will be playing published handbell music together.
Track B (Intermediate): Strengthening the Skillset
For current ringers who want to refresh their skills and round out their toolkits, this track will focus on expanding the foundational skills of amateur to intermediate ringers. The courses will introduce a broad range of techniques and method, with an aim to help ringers feel more comfortable with anything a piece of music may throw at them! This track will provide effective yet straightforward instruction on solidifying your existing ringing ability, to create the solid base and open doors for more advanced ringing skills down the road.
Track C (Advanced): Delving Deeper
How can I start to push my skills? How do I approach ringing differently for different areas of the table? This track is designed for those who are comfortable reading different positions, know the basic techniques, and want to take the next step in their handbell musicianship.
We will try to accommodate individual preferences as class-sizes permit. Download last year's Workshop Schedule to see examples of classes offered for each track.
Do I need to bring anything to the workshop?
Participants need to bring a pair of handbell gloves. (We will have some availabe for purchase).
If you wish to explore the local area, Green Mountain Falls is known for its natural beauty and cool mountain weather. 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.
Do you have details about the location?
The workshop 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.
Does the venue offer any special amenities?
Free wi-fi is available inside and outside the church. We have newly remodeled, ADA accessible facilities including comfortable seating areas, restrooms, meeting spaces, and an outdoor courtyard and garden.
Are meals available?
Lunch and dinner on Saturday are provided. Please let us know of any dietary restrictions on your registration form. The parks have picnic tables. The town also offers several restaurants. The Pantry, Cantina Verde, Blue Moose, and Black Bear are all in 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.
Can family and friends join me?
We invite you and your guests to explore the area outside of workshop hours and/or attend services at Church in the Wildwood. On Sunday afternoon, the Forté Handbell Quartet will present a concert that anyone may attend, no tickets required. A free-will offering will be collected.
Does this event receive special funding?
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 classes.
Can I register online?
You can Register and Pay Online (available soon). If you prefer a paper form, you will be able to pick one up at Church in the Wildwood or download the Registration Form online. Enclose a check for $75 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. Registration closes when the workshop is full.
Are Scholarships Available?
The registration fee should not be a barrier to attendance. A limited amount of scholarships are available upon request.
Do you have a flyer I can share?
A printable PDF flyer and shareable social media post will be available soon.
If I have questions, is there someone I can talk to?
Email our Music Director teresa@wildwooducc.org with any questions.