Workshop descriptions Session 1

WEDNESDAY 5 AUGUST (p.m.)

1.1 – 1.4  Ringing Tracks A B C D

1.5   Camp Fire Songs                                  Emily Franks (UK, HRGB) 
Guiding and Scouting is present in some form in over 150 countries worldwide but originated in the  UK in the early 1900s. Come and join in a ‘traditional’ (albeit indoor) British  Girlguiding/Scouting campfire. Meet new people and learn some songs while upholding guiding values  of inclusivity in a safe space. You do not have to be good at singing, in fact the poorer your  voice the more authentic the experience! - this will be fun, with optional actions.

1.6   Rhythm First: Unlocking Latin Grooves in Handbells           Kathryn Jurado (USA, HMA) 
Explore how foundational Latin rhythms - and simple movement inspired by Latin Dance - can  transform your handbell playing from precise to truly expressive. The groove is what brings music  to life! Through engaging, movement-based activities, participants will internalize patterns  through movement and latin percussion, and apply them directly to handbell techniques and ensemble  performance. No dance experience required - just a willingness to move, feel the pulse, and play!

1.7  Discovering Singapore’s Handbell Music for the Young and Persons with Special Needs   Damien Lim (Singapore, HRSG)  
Handbells in Singapore is anchored in YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, particularly  in Schools: both in Mainstream Schools & Special Education Schools. Learn about the ways that we  run our handbell programs in schools (and special education school), and learn about the contents &  materials we use, and methods of engaging the students, teachers and community. Come and be  prepared to share ideas.

1.8  Shaping Every Shade of Sound - Mastering the Delicate Touch: Confidence in Every Note   Nozomu Abe (Japan, HRJ)
The ringing technique introduced here is essential for achieving dynamic contrast in musical bell  performance. After confirming the spring adjustment methods recommended by each handbell manufacturer, he will  introduce a ringing technique that allows you to freely control dynamics from pp to ff, achieving a  musical and pleasant sound. A key point of this method is that even beginners can master it easily in a very short time. He is keen to share this ringing technique with conductors and ringers alike, as it is something  even a complete novice can master with ease in next to no time.

1.9   ‘A Peculiar Holiday Entertainment’                    Dr. Alan Hartley (UK, HRGB)
The art of tune ringing on Handbells is practised worldwide but its origin lies in England in the early  1700’s. As handbell ringers we all promote the benefits and enjoyment of tune ringing, but what do  others think about it and what are the ‘back stories’ behind what the audience may see? This  workshop will provide information that may surprise you!

1.10  North-East Scots Language (Doric) and Culture Workshop       Charley Buchan (Scotland) 
An exploration of the culture of north-east Scotland. Participants will have the opportunity to  understand where the ‘Scots’ language came from, to learn some of the local Doric dialect, and how  this informs the north-east culture through music and beyond.

1.11  Preparing for Performance                            Tim Willetts (UK, HRGB)  
There can be a real difference between the way we feel when we are playing music in the safety of our rehearsal  room with no-one listening, and performing music on the stage in front of a large audience (or even  a small audience!). What does “performing” do to us and what can we do to help prepare ourselves to  play confidently and well in front of an audience and achieve a musical performance?

1.12  Behind the Baton                              Debbie Rice (Canada, HMC)  
A conductor’s role is to provide leadership through conducting to communicate rhythmical accuracy as well as musical  interpretations. Let’s go behind the baton with tips for drawing the music out of your performance.

1.13  Traditional Chinese Paper Cutting                    Alice Lee Oi Shan (Hong Kong, HAHK) Paper-cutting is a traditional art. It uses paper to show cultural ideas by cutting shapes with  scissors or knives. This art includes many themes, such as home decoration, good wishes, New Year  blessings, weddings, birthdays, and prayers. In this hands-on workshop, each participant will make two paper-cut pieces. One will be in the  traditional style, and the other will be a special Bell Style design created by the teacher. Join  the Chinese Paper-Cutting Workshop and explore the beautiful traditional art!