Bell Choir

Grace Lutheran is blessed to have two handbell choirs.  One in the afternoon for youth and beginners and a second one in the evening for older teens and adults.

Grace has 3 octaves of Malmark handbells and 3 octaves of Malmark choirchimes.  Grace is a member of Handbell Musicians of America (HMA)

Clapper Kids, grades 4^th and higher or adults new to music, begin each rehearsal with snacks, sharing time, and devotions.  They learn music theory though games and activities.  Rehearsals are every Thursday from 3:45p.m. to 5:00p.m. during the school year.

Grace Notes begin each Thursday rehearsal with devotions at 5:45p.m. and end at 7:00p.m. This dedicated group of musicians consists of older teens and adults who are accomplished at reading music. 

A bell choir practice develops good music reading skills that will transfer to any other instrumental or vocal group.  Other benefits of ringing with the handbell choir are physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional growth.  The skills taught include:  Music literacy (Rhythm, Notes, Accidentals, Musical terminology, Dynamics, and Special handbell techniques); Teamwork (Cooperation, and Sense of responsibility and commitment); Self-confidence; Self-discipline; Physical Coordination; and Appreciation for the value of music.

Grace Handbells ring about 5 Sundays a year and two Wednesday night during Lent and Advent.  Both groups ring in the community in places such as nursing homes, Kinship Care dinners, Hastings Public Library, and down by the Courthouse Fountain.

Attendance at special HMA Festival Weekends have included:

Fort Wayne, IN

Columbus, OH

Mackinaw Island, MI

Midland, MI

Lansing, MI

Charleston, West Virginia

L.A.M.B. (Lansing Area Ministry of Bells)

The handbell director at GLC is Kim Domke.  She would encourage anyone interested in ringing with the choir to call the church for information. Visitors are welcome at any rehearsal.