The City of Bell Ringers Strike the Right Note!

Through the support of Bell City Council members, George Cole, Victor Bello, and Teresa Jacobo, the “Friends of Bell”, the “Oldtimers Foundation”, and Bell Community Center, the City of Bell Ringers have enjoyed playing handbells in their community ever since. They have performed in “Sunday Music in the Park”, the Bell Christmas Parade for the last 2 years, holiday and award dinners, and at convalescent homes in the city. Outside the community of Bell, but still representing youthful musicians from the Southern California area, they performed at Epcot Center at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. They have also starred onstage at other theme parks such as, Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, and Knott’s Berry Farm. They are members of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers (AGEHR) and have participated in Area XII Regional Conventions, which are held every two years in different venues throughout California, Nevada, and Hawaii.

Mr. Theile's teaching approach is based on four key principles: Musicianship, Motivation, Management and a Sense of Community.

Bell children learn musicianship not just by playing, but by understanding music theory and history. Their motivation is provided by field trips to hear symphony orchestras, jazz bands and other musical performances.

Each Bell Ringer learns personal management techniques to make them better able to coordinate academic responsibilities with rehearsals and performances. All participants must maintain a 2.5 grade point average. In addition, they must maintain high performance standards, behave appropriately in public settings, and learn skills such as trip planning, fund raising, equipment maintenance and more.

The resulting sense of community is priceless. The City of Bell Ringers are young ambassadors who represent their families, their schools and the community of Bell. Their musical training and travel to other places gives them valuable exposure to other cultures, customs and communities. The Bell Ringers gain a broader perspective of the world while making beautiful music.

Chances are, you'll have an opportunity to hear the Bell Ringers in the months ahead. The youngsters perform an average of 32 concerts each year. Some performances take place at places like Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, or at venues throughout Southern California, but bells often ring right here in town. The Bell Ringers perform at local schools, churches and at city events. Look for them in the Bell Family Holiday Parade in December.

For more information about the City of Bell Ringers,
contact Chris Cabrera
ccabr3@lausd.k12.ca.us